At the 2022 Southern Province Synod, delegates passed Resolution 11, asking the Provincial Elders Conference to establish licensed ministry to better serve Souther Province congregations and fellowships. Acting on this resolution, the Commission on Ministry and the Commission on Congregational Development appointed a Lay Ministry Task Force to study the possibility of establishing a new order of licensed pastor to perhaps replace Provincial Acolytes and to work with the provincial staff in creating a lay ministry training program.
Though study will continue concerning the establishment of a new order of lay ministry in preparation for the 2026 Synod, the Commission on Ministry, in conjunction with the Lay Ministry Task Force, has already embarked upon an exciting adventure this year, inaugurating an intentional 12-month Lay Ministry training program for those currently serving or preparing to serve as provincial acolytes in the Southern Province.
Currently, seven people participate in the 13-month Lay Ministry Training Program which began in August of 2024: Bruce Ayers, provincial acolyte at Mt. Bethel Moravian Church in Cana, Va.; Justin Peart and Monique Richards, provincial acolytes for the South Florida pastorate, Thomas Williams, provincial acolyte for the Sarasota, Fla., Moravian Fellowship, and Phyllis Brownlee, congregational acolyte at New Hope (Fla.) Moravian Church. Ted Kimball, Pine Chapel Moravian, Winston-Salem, N.C. and Andy Fulp, coordinator of the Savannah (Georgia)Fellowship, also participate in the training program as they prepare for future service as provincial acolytes.
In the Southern Province, provincial acolytes are those authorized by the Provincial Elders’ Conference to serve as lay pastors of congregations. Usually, provincial acolytes are appointed for one year, which can be renewed. After instruction, provincial acolytes are authorized to administer the sacraments in the congregation to which he/she has been appointed.
The Lay Ministry Training Program meets each month for two hours using Google classroom as a platform for learning. Students in the program enter the Google classroom ahead of time where they can view videos and read materials in preparation for each class module. For example, training modules include Moravian theology, polity, liturgy, the sacraments, Biblical interpretation, teaching, preaching, pastoral care and conflict management, to name a few. During the initial months of training, the class has been privileged to have scholars, bishops and pastors join us as guest lecturers and teachers.
Andy Fulp, coordinator of the Savannah (Georgia) Fellowship, is part of the lay ministry training program. Here, he leads worship during the sunrise Easter service with the Fellowship.
Andy Fulp, coordinator of the Savannah Moravian Fellowship reflects:
“As the Coordinator of the Savannah Moravian Fellowship, my journey through the Lay Ministry Training Program has been nothing short of transformative. When I first joined this 12-month program, I expected to learn about Moravian practices and theology, but what I have discovered is far more profound—a deeper connection to my faith and to the broader Moravian community.
“The program’s structure is both intentional and inspiring. Each monthly virtual session delves into critical aspects of ministry, from Moravian theology and scriptural interpretation to pastoral care and conflict management. What makes these sessions truly exceptional is not just the comprehensive curriculum, but the passion of our instructors and guest lecturers who generously share their expertise.
“The most unexpected gift of this training has been my fellow classmates. Their stories, commitment, and diverse experiences have been a constant source of motivation. Hearing about their congregations and personal journeys reminds me that our Moravian legacy is living and breathing—shaped by individual stories yet connected by a shared commitment to service.
“ With each class, I feel my understanding of ministry expanding. My confidence grows, not just in planning for our fellowship, but in truly leading and serving. I am learning to present scripture more effectively, organize study materials more thoughtfully, and connect more deeply with the larger Moravian Church.
“This course has opened my eyes to dimensions of church service I had never before appreciated. I am beginning to understand the profound historical influence of the Moravian Church and how our beliefs and traditions continue to be relevant. Most importantly, I am discovering what it truly means to be a servant of Christ—not through grand gestures, but through dedicated, thoughtful service to my community.
As I continue this journey, I am increasingly convinced that this training is preparing me, not just to be a leader, but to be a brother to all believers, carrying forward a rich spiritual tradition of the Moravian Church with humility and hope.”
Monique Richards, who serves as a provincial acolyte in the South Florida pastorate shares:
“The Lay Ministry Training Program of the Moravian Church has been a transformative experience, providing me with essential tools for my journey. My time in this program has further deepened my understanding of what it means to serve God and his people, both in my previous service in the Eastern West Indies Province and now in the Southern Province. Attending monthly classes has created a structured environment that has allowed me to deepen my growth spiritually, intellectually, and practically. These sessions have allowed me to continue to focus on ministry development while fostering new relationships with my fellow classmates from within the province who share the same passion for advancing God’s kingdom.
“Participating in class discussions has been one of the most enriching aspects of the program. The opportunity to engage in thought-provoking conversations with the lecturers, presenters and others has broadened my perspective, even beyond what I already knew, on church leadership and ministry challenges. These discussions have been instrumental in helping me refine my approach to pastoral care, both for youth and adults, while emphasizing the importance of collaboration, active listening and shared wisdom. The diversity of perspectives has been invaluable in shaping how I understand and carry out my role in ministry.
“The program’s presenters, as previously mentioned, have been nothing short of incredible sources of spiritual inspiration and ecclesiastical learning. Their dedication and depth of knowledge have helped me gain clarity on the practical and spiritual dimensions of pastoral work. From exploring the sacraments to understanding the nuances of church governance, their teachings have equipped me with the tools to lead with confidence, humility, and grace. Their insights have been particularly helpful as I navigate my transition between provinces, ensuring I remain grounded in Moravian principles while adapting to new contexts.
“The requisite readings, including books, publications, and other resources, have also played a critical role in my continued development. These materials have offered deeper insights into our church’s rich history, practices, sacraments and the like. Studying the foundational principles of unity, simplicity, and mission has reaffirmed my calling and strengthened my ability to articulate the church’s message with clarity and conviction. This deeper understanding has been invaluable in bridging my experiences across provinces.
“Overall, the Lay Ministry Training Program has been a profound journey of growth and discovery. It has provided me with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual maturity necessary for effective leadership in my roles as provincial acolyte as well as director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Florida-Georgia District and as I prepare to become a Church Educator. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow through this program, and I look forward to applying these lessons in ways that glorify God and further the mission of the Moravian Church in the Southern Province and beyond.”
Study on how a new order of lay ministry will be established in the Southern Province is ongoing, and the current Lay Ministry Program will continue to be developed. For more information on this opportunity, visit the Southern Province Commission on Ministry section of www.mcsp.org.
The Rt. Rev. Lane A. Sapp serves as Director of the Commission on Ministry, Moravian Church, Southern Province.
