Education for Ministry (EfM) Group at St. Peter's

Beginning on February 3, a new group will be meeting at St. Peter’s for Education for Ministry (EfM). EfM is open to all parishioners who are interested in more in-depth study of scripture, theology, and church history. The group will meet Mondays from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Contact the Rev. Dr. Nathan Haydon at with questions or to get involved.

Education for Ministry (EfM) Program Overview

The Education for Ministry (EfM) program, offered by the School of Theology at the
University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, is a four-year program aimed at theological
education and spiritual formation for laypeople. The program is designed to help participants
deepen their understanding of the Christian faith and equip them for ministry in daily life.

Program Purpose and Goals
• Equip participants with a solid theological foundation
• Enhance lay ministry through a deeper understanding of Scripture, church history, and
theology
• Foster spiritual growth and personal reflection
• Build a supportive learning community for participants
• Prepare individuals for service in their local churches, communities, and beyond

Four-Year Curriculum
• Year 1: Study of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament)
• Year 2: Study of the New Testament
• Year 3: Christian history from early church to modern day
• Year 4: Theological reflection and ethics, with a focus on contemporary issues

Small Group Structure
• Groups of 6–12 participants meet regularly (typically weekly) in local churches or
online.
• Trained mentors guide discussions and reflections.
Theological Reflection
• Core element of EfM, encouraging participants to connect scripture, tradition, culture,
and personal experience.
• Structured conversations that deepen understanding of God's work in the world and
one’s personal vocation.
Mentorship and Leadership
• They facilitate group discussions and provide spiritual guidance without acting as
traditional teachers.
• Mentors help create a safe and respectful space for personal and theological
exploration.

Requirements and Commitment
• Time Commitment: Requires approximately 2–4 hours of study per week, plus
participation in weekly group meetings.
• Four-Year Program: Although structured as a four-year program, participants
commit to one year at a time.
• Readings and Materials: Participants use assigned textbooks, workbooks, and
supplemental reading materials.

Who Should Enroll?
• Laypeople seeking a deeper understanding of their faith
• Individuals called to serve their local churches or communities
• Those exploring questions of theology, spirituality, and ethics
• Anyone interested in growing in their faith and ministerial leadership, even if not
pursuing ordained ministry

Benefits of EfM
• Spiritual Growth: Encourages participants to reflect on their personal faith journey
and relationship with God.
• Theological Education: Provides access to in-depth theological study without
needing formal seminary education.
• Community and Fellowship: Participants form close bonds with fellow group
members, creating a supportive learning environment.
• Leadership Development: Prepares participants for various forms of lay ministry,
such as teaching, pastoral care, or service within the church and community.

Program History
• Established in 1975 by the School of Theology at the University of the South.
• Over 100,000 people have participated in EfM globally.
• Available in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and other countries.

For more information, please contact Rev. Dr. Nathan Haydon, visit the official EfM website
(https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/), or contact the School of Theology
at Sewanee.