EfM: Education for Ministry

Education for Ministry (EfM) is a four-year program of theological education by extension from the School of Theology at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. Over 70,000 persons have participated in the program, and in the United States more than 22,000 have completed the full four years. In our diocese there are several hundred graduates of EfM.

The seminar group is the nucleus of the EfM program. A group consists of six to twelve participants and a trained mentor who meet weekly over the course of a nine-month academic year. Through study, prayer, and reflection, the EfM group moves toward a new understanding of the fullness of God’s kingdom. Participants are given weekly assignments to study with the help of resource guides. In the seminar members share their insights and discoveries as well as discuss questions which arise in their study. More important is the development of skills in theological reflection. The goal is to learn to think theologically. By examining their own beliefs and their relationship to our culture and the tradition of our Christian faith, participants can learn what it means to be effective ministers in the world. In coming to terms with the notion that everything we do has potential for manifesting the love of Christ, we discover that our ministry is at hand wherever we turn. Every baptized person is called to ministry. The Education for Ministry program offers an opportunity to deepen our faith and understanding to better respond to our call to Christian service.

EfM is a great (and fun) way to deepen your faith and your understanding of the larger church. Each year of EfM stands alone – you only need to enroll for one year at a time. Year One studies the Old Testament, Year Two the New Testament, Year Three the history of the Church, and Year Four theology and philosophy. Cost is $350.00 per year. Most EfM groups will start up again in September. Ask your local EfM mentor or your rector for more information, or call Sandy Early, Diocesan Coordinator, at 850- 206-2544 or Walt Kindergan at 850-529-5944.