Synodically Authorized Lay Minister (SALM)

Contents

• What is a SALM?
• Criteria
• Qualifications
• Program of Preparation
• Guidelines for SALMs
• A Wonderful Opportunity

What is a SALM?

The SALM program of the ELCA is a way to provide Word and Sacrament ministry to a particular congregation when no ordained minister is available. A SALM is a layperson who is authorized by the synod bishop to serve a particular congregation where a specific need exists. Such service is for a period of one year and may be renewed annually. The appointment is made at the request of and with the consent of the congregation. The individual is authorized after successfully completing the synod's training program.

Criteria

An individual who is interested in becoming a Synodically Authorized Lay Minister must meet these criteria:

• Evidence of a mature Christian faith and commitment to Christ.
• Satisfactory completion of the synodical program of preparation, including demonstration of appropriate ministry skills.
• Knowledge and acceptance of the Confession of Faith of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
• Willingness to meet this church’s expectations concerning the personal conduct and behavior of persons serving in public ministry. (Candidates will be given a copy of and expected to be familiar with the ELCA document, Vision and Expectations.)

Qualifications

Someone preparing to be a Synodically Authorized Lay Minister will:

• Possess a high school degree or equivalent.
• Be an active member of an ELCA congregation for at least two years.
• Submit an application to become a Synodically Authorized Lay Minister.
• Submit the Congregational Registration Form.
• Complete a psychological evaluation.
• Complete child abuse and criminal record checks.
• Possess the ability and willingness to participate in a program of preparation leading to possible service as a Synodically Authorized Lay Minister.

Program of Preparation

The synod program of preparation includes 108 hours of study in the following areas: Scripture, Theology, Church History, Lutheran Confessions, Preaching, Worship, Congregational Ministries

Courses normally will be offered one Saturday a month from September to June, including an annual retreat. The program of preparation also will include 150 hours of supervised field work.

Guidelines for SALMs

Persons serving as Synodically Authorized Lay Ministers are given authority by the synodical bishop to preside over the sacraments in a particular congregation during the period stipulated in the letter of authorization. Celebration of the sacraments outside of that context and time frame is not permitted.

Accountability and oversight for a Synodically Authorized Lay Minister is the direct responsibility of the congregation council, with the oversight of the bishop, who may appoint an ordained minister to provide additional support.

Synodically Authorized Lay Ministers may wear an alb and cincture while leading worship. Stoles and clerical collars may not be worn.

Synodically Authorized Lay Ministry is a term used by the ELCA and the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod to describe the ministry in which an individual is engaged. It does not carry a title with it. The title Pastor or the Reverend may not be used by a Synodically Authorized Lay Minister.

The Synodically Authorized Lay Ministry program was established for the sake of mission and ministry in a particular congregation in a time of need. The Synodically Authorized Lay Minister is expected to maintain membership in his or her home congregation. A person serving as a Synodically Authorized Lay Minister serves for a specific time; the position is not a permanent arrangement or employment situation.

A Wonderful Opportunity

Synodically Authorized Lay Ministry is a wonderful opportunity for an individual to share God’s good news of love and redemption. With the shortage of ordained pastors and the number of struggling smaller congregations, the Synodically Authorized Lay Minister can enable Word and Sacrament ministry to be carried out in every congregation.

© 2006 Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod. All rights reserved.