What rationale leads people to discern a call to rostered lay ministry?
All leaders in the church bring their own unique gifts to ministry. This route to public ministry is the uncommon path yet it is one that makes sense for many as we discern where God is calling us. We discern that we are called to be something other than pastors. We are called to serve faithfully in a “different” way that seems to fit for us. Some people emerge as lay leaders in a congregation or synod and come to discern a call to intentional public ministry as they respond to a desire for theological insight and spiritual formation. Some know God is calling and welcome the choices provided by the ELCA for different rosters, with a variety of functions and areas of focus. The ELCA has established three lay rosters since its formation in 1988 and recognizes the diversity of gifts and variety of personalities and gifts that people bring to service on behalf of the church. The complexity of needs in the church and world provide many opportunities for service, and those who are called as
