Testimonials

For me the most important thing was confidence. I can see things that God has done over the years that were preparing me for this time of answering his call.

I liked the way that the course prepared us for the meeting with our district superintendent. At least for me, I had no idea what to expect from a meeting with her. It took a lot of pressure off me knowing that I was well prepared before I got there.

Self discovery is an ongoing process and this course is an effective tool to guide the journey. I found a gentle peace and comfort by reflecting and putting my thoughts and struggles on paper.

It was exciting for me to find that my gifts matched my calling. I was also surprised to learn the strength of some of those gifts.

Dr. Ellis was very involved in the course and very helpful, beyond what I would normally expect. I liked the small size of the class. It made interaction with everyone deeper and easier.

I absolutely believe The Academy gave me the tools and the confidence to be a pastor. The topics and teaching were geared toward preparing me and others to be of greater service to the church.

I was blessed with two great instructors: Dr. Carl Ellis and pastor Jada Hodgson. They are exceptional and knowledgeable leaders who provided us the knowledge and skills needed to pastor a church.

And I was blessed with a small group of fellow students who were committed to Christian service.

One of my highlights was the sharing done among the course "attendees." ... It is very cool to hear about the different ways the other attendees are working in God's Kingdom.

I was really fascinated by the comparison of who in the Bible I identified with. It was fun comparing how I have been called and my response to those in the Bible and their responses.

Another highlight was discussing the final paper with my pastor and District Superintendent. I was so touched by their affirmations of my calling and gifts and how supportive they were.

I have been serving the Methodist Church as a District Superintendent’s Assignee for about 3 years, and last July went to licensing school and am now enrolled in Course of Study for local pastors in the United Methodist Church.

The Lay Academy prepared me well with the beginning skills and the history of the church to take my studies to the next level. I want to thank the Lay Academy for the preparation, guidance, the opportunity for group participation, and the grace I experienced

Pastor Ellis’s encouragement and the encouragement of all the instructors helped me find the courage to pursue God’s calling in my life.

This is an amazing course, made all the richer by the instructors and the fellow students. The affirmations of my fellow students and the course instructors have not only encouraged me, but strengthened my calling. I will be ever grateful for this course.