“God set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.”

-Psalm 40:2b-3a

Before the frame of a house can be raised, a strong foundation must first be laid. Likewise, effective leadership begins with a firm foundation of knowledge, skills, and preparation. Laity Academy 2026 offers an exceptional lineup of time-tested courses, complemented by exciting new offerings, all designed to equip participants with the tools they need for continued growth and effective leadership in the years ahead.

At the 2026 Laity Academy you can begin you Christ Servant Ministry Journey with the Basic Course, taught by Judy Ehninger.

Advanced course offerings will be organized around the Christ Servant Ministry areas of focus, Speaking, Leading, and caring.

Speaking

Speaking 1- Preaching to be Heard with Rev. Harold Burkett

Speaking 2 – Preaching by the Numbers with Rev. Dr. Lloyd Speer

Leading

Creation, Evolution, and Intelligent Design with Steve Myers

Forgiveness: A Biblical Perspective with Rev. David Piltz

From Calling to Leading: Practical Skills for Church Leaders with John Lafferty and Margie Krut

Let’s Talk About It – (Re)Discovering the Lost Art of Communication with Jospeh Skarbowski,

Methodist Theology – Through the Lens of John Wesley’s Sermons and      

        Charles Wesley’s Hymns with Rev. Mark Salvacion

Mission, Ministry & Funding for the Local Church with Deaconess Barbara Drake

Caring

A Practical Pathway to Cultural Competency – led by Dennis Fisher, Rev. Stacey Jones-Anderson and Beverly Andrews together with members of the EPA Cross Racial/ Cross Cultural Team of instructors.

What to Say when People are Hurting with Laurie Lewis, RN.

Don’t let this opportunity to strengthen your leadership pass you by! Download the course catalog to learn more and Click here to register.