Welcome to this innovative, distance‑learning Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course. “The LSM Basic Course” was created to equip new leaders and renew those currently serving. As the foundational course for all Lay Servant Ministries offerings and certifications, it introduces the three core ministry areas of Leading, Caring, and Communicating. Each area has its own dedicated session and includes an exploration of our Wesleyan heritage. The final session, “Into the World,” focuses on the role of lay leadership both within the local church and in the wider community. Throughout the course, you will also reflect on your call to Christ’s service in light of the unique challenges and opportunities facing the church today.
Designed for members of the Florida Conference—and for participants from other conferences who receive district or conference approval—this online course emphasizes how God works through laity to offer hope, encouragement, and leadership. Over the two‑week experience, you will gain clarity about your gifts and talents, the needs of your faith community, and the ways you can serve faithfully. Even if you are new to online learning, you will be supported as you connect with others who share your desire to learn and grow as leaders, all without stepping away from your work or family commitments.
In addition to daily Blackboard interactions, two required Zoom meetings will be held: the first on the opening Monday evening of the course from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and the second on the second Thursday at 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Sessions will not be recorded. The Zoom invitation can be found in the Day 1 course announcement in Blackboard.
Learners are required to obtain the Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course Participant’s Book by Sandy and Brian Jackson.
Florida Conference participants may enroll directly with the verbal support of their pastor no later than noon on the Friday before the course begins.
Participants from outside the Florida Conference must enroll before 5:00 p.m. Central Time on the Wednesday prior to the course start date and request that their district or conference LSM director grant permission to participate by providing them with the form found at this link: BeADisciple LSM Basic Course Approval Form
Without this approval no later than Noon Central Time on the Friday before the course begins, the enrollee will be withdrawn and the course fee refunded.
Quick Info:
Number of weeks: 2
Price: $90
CEUs: 1.0
Required books: Yes
Blackboard: Yes
Zoom: Yes, required
Certification or Series: No
Read course description for details.
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About the Instructor
David B. Palmer is a Certified Lay Minister (CLM) and the conference director of Lay Servant Ministries for the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. He serves at Belleview UMC, where he provides leadership in teaching, preaching, congregational care, missions, leadership development, and pulpit supply in the North East District. He also serves on the Conference Board of Laity and chairs the Conference Committee for Lay Servant Ministries.
David’s professional background includes senior executive leadership in public safety and extensive experience as an adjunct college instructor in leadership, strategic decision-making, and online learning. As a BeADisciple.com instructor and CLM Program Lead, he mentors emerging CLMs, laity, and clergy with clarity, encouragement, and a deep commitment to spiritual formation.
Rooted in a lifelong call and passion for servant leadership, David is dedicated to equipping disciples for faithful, transformative ministry in the local church and beyond.
