This past Pentecost Day, Calvary Episcopal Church joyfully celebrated the graduation of six members from our inaugural Education for Ministry (EfM) class. Over the past four years, these dedicated individuals journeyed through scripture, theology, church history, and personal reflection, growing as thoughtful, engaged Christians ready to serve in all areas of life and ministry. Their accomplishment is a testament to the power of deep formation in community.
Education for Ministry is a theological education program for lay people, developed by the University of the South’s School of Theology. But don’t let the name mislead you—EfM is not about ordained ministry. It’s a program for all baptized persons who long to explore their faith more deeply, ask big questions, and discover how their story fits into God’s story.
Each year-long cycle explores a different theme: Hebrew Scriptures, Christian Scriptures, Church History, and Theology, Ethics, and Interfaith Engagement. Participants commit to meeting weekly in small cohort groups, engaging in guided study, group discussion, and spiritual reflection in a supportive environment.
At Calvary, EfM groups meet weekly from late August through May, taking breaks for major holidays. Our Monday night cohort meets from 7-9pm, and we are currently discerning interest in forming a Thursday daytime cohort as well.
If you’ve ever felt curious about diving deeper into scripture, exploring church tradition, or reflecting on your faith with others in a meaningful way, we invite you to come learn more. On Sunday, August 3, during our 10am Calvary Community Hour, we’re hosting an EfM Information and Recruitment Session in the Discipleship Center. Mentors Lois Brown and Ben O’Kelley—both trained facilitators and members of Calvary—will be there to share insights about the program, answer questions, and help discern whether EfM might be the right next step for you.
Whether you’re a lifelong Episcopalian or new to the church, EfM is a space where curiosity is welcomed, wisdom is shared, and transformation happens. As we launch our next year, we hope you’ll consider joining the journey.
For more information or to express interest in either the Monday night or potential Thursday daytime group, contact the Calvary office or speak to one of the mentors.
Lois Brown lgbrown@miamioh.edu
Ben O’Kelley ebokelley@gmail.com