Licensed Lay Ministry
Lay ministry comes in many forms, but some ministries require a license from the ecclesiastical authority in the diocese. All licensed lay ministers in the Diocese of Southern Ohio are required to complete Safe Church and Dismantling Racism training. All licensed lay ministers are encouraged to join the diocesan commitment to the four-fold path of Becoming Beloved Community: truth-telling, proclamation, formation, and justice.
Eucharistic Minister, Eucharistic Visitor, Worship Leader
To receive a new or renewal license as a Eucharistic Minister, Eucharistic Visitor, and/or Worship Leader:
- Complete Dismantling Racism training (in 2023, you may receive a license before completing this training, but it is expected that all licensed ministers will complete this training by Easter 2024).
- Complete Safe Church training.
- If applying for a new license, complete ministry training through congregational clergy, a licensed minister, diocesan trainers, an online course, or a combination of these.
- If applying for a renewal license, serve in the ministry over the course of three years. For worship leaders, lead worship at least three times over the course of three years.
Use this license application to apply for or renew a Eucharistic Minister, Eucharistic Visitor or Worship leader license.
Preacher, Pastoral Leader, Evangelist, Catechist
To receive a new or renewal license as a Preacher, Pastoral Leader, Evangelist, or Catechist contact the Rev. Canon Jason Oden for more information.
Safe Church Certification
It is the responsibility of all congregational clergy and leadership to safeguard children, youth, vulnerable adults, and employees from sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse. Safe Church training helps clergy, staff, and volunteers understand the requisite policies and procedures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in ministry.
Please visit the Safe Church Training page to learn about requirements and training opportunities.
Dismantling Racism Training
Dismantling Racism Training is open to everyone as the first step in taking part in our diocesan commitment to Becoming Beloved Community and working “diligently and to pray fervently for the transformation of ourselves and of our communities of faith to dismantle racism and injustice in all of their forms” (Resolution 2018-03: Becoming Beloved Community). While the training is required for all clergy, staff, lay leaders, volunteers, and contract workers, all members of the Diocese of Southern Ohio are encouraged to sign up.
See upcoming dismantling racism training series.
Alternative Training Information
If you are not able to participate in a training session from the Diocese of Southern Ohio, you are invited to participate in a training through the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing online. Once you complete this training, please forward your certificate to Emma Helmz-Steinmetz to have this noted in our diocesan files.
Questions? Contact a member of the Dismantling Racism Team: