Lay Deacon Program

The Lay Deacon Program is a way for laymen to serve the church in a formal way with a structured 2-year education program.

What is the Lay Diaconate?

The Diaconate in the Holy Scriptures

The diaconate is a group of people committed to service in and for the Church, a group which has its roots in the New Testament [see Philippians 1:1; I Timothy 3:8-13; Acts 6:1-6]. As the Church catholic has grown, so too, the diaconate has had a history of development and usage. The diaconate has had a variety of definitions over time and has included a broad range of people, privileges, and responsibilities all dealing with sharing the Word of God and service in the Lord’s kingdom.

Purpose of the Atlantic District Lay Diaconate

The Atlantic District Lay Deacons are trained laity who are granted the opportunity to work under the Office of the Public Ministry in service to the local church, her members and to the world through works of mercy and witness as directed. The purpose of the Atlantic District Lay Diaconate is to provide some basic and uniform standards for preparation, education, and accountability; to offer opportunities for continuing education, fellowship, and support; to encourage excellence in service; and to be a forum for mutual concerns and needs. The Atlantic District Lay Diaconate is standardized and exists exclusively within the Atlantic District.

Student Resources

Enrollment, Registration and support

Resources

Forms & Downloads

  • Lay Deacon Guidelines

    • 1 file
    • 291.18 KB

  • AD Lay Deacon Application

    • 1 file
    • 85.27 KB

  • Class Audit Application

    • 1 file
    • 70.32 KB

  • 2022-23 Program Brochure

    • 1 file
    • 201.38 KB

How Classes Work

  • 2024-25 Academic Year

    Interpreting Scripture

    teaches tools for Christ-centered, Lutheran interpretation of Holy Scripture where students learn to be faithful and adept receivers of God’s Word. 

    Class Schedule: Tuesdays; September 10, 17, 24; October 1, 8, 15

    Evangelism

    develops strategies for Lutheran evangelism and identifies available resources for thoughtful and engaging Christian outreach. 

    Class Schedule: Tuesdays; November 5, 12, 19, 26; December 3, 10 [Updated Sep. 16, 2024]

    Church History (Apologetics)

    overviews the history of the Christian church and what the church believes, teaches, and confess for ministry and mission today.

    Class Schedule: Tuesdays; January 7, 14, 21, 28; February 4, 12  [Updated Sep. 16, 2024]

    Lutheran Foundations

    articulates the Lutheran centrality of justification by faith alone and the theological distinctions of law and gospel, church and ministry, the two kingdoms, and examines the history and theology of the Lutheran church from the Reformation to the present.

    Class Schedule: Tuesdays; February 25; March 11, 18, 25; April 1, 8

    Teaching the Faith

    presents the principles and practices of Christian education from the Lutheran perspective for students to learn to lead Bible classes, catechesis, and other opportunities for Christ-centered teaching.

    Class Schedule: Tuesdays; April 29; May 6, 13, 20; June 3, 10

    Note: All Classes are held on Google Classroom from 6:30-9:00 PM, with open Q&A from 9:00-9:30 PM.
    Classes are not recorded and synchronous with participation mandatory for registered students.

  • Each class is usually six weeks in length. Registered participants will receive a class schedule, along with instructors’ name, prior to the academic year.

    Cycle 1

    • Old Testament
    • New Testament
    • Theology & Practice of Worship
    • Christian Doctrine
    • Christian Care

    Cycle 2

    • Interpreting Scripture
    • Evangelism
    • Church History
    • Lutheran Foundations
    • Teaching the Faith

  • All classes are on-line, using an established Distance Education System. Classes may be viewed:

    • Live Session - Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:30 PM
    • Individual study at home at your leisure via recorded sessions
    • Active, Certified Deacons may also audit the courses Continuing Education Credit.for the discounted fee of $50. Registration is required.

  • In addition to the varying cost of texts to be used, Tuition for each course is $200, payable either by credit card or personal check to the Atlantic District, and sent directly to the District Offices. Mark your check Lay Deacon Training Program.

    Scholarship Funds are available. A rebate of $50 will be granted to matriculated students upon successfully completing the course. Contact the Program Registrar for more information: Turn on Javascript! [not available for those auditing the courses for Continuing Education]

  • Applications are available from the Registrar and Atlantic District Lay Deacon Program Coordinator, Rev Henry Albrechtsen. Please contact him for both registration and scholarship applications, as well as with any questions, at Turn on Javascript!

    All completed forms must be submitted to Rev Albrechtsen.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes. Since September 2018, the Atlantic District has assumed sole responsibility for the administration of the Lay Deacon Training Program. The manner of the Program remains through computer based distance learning, and remains offered to all participating ECCE Districts.

  • Participants can study when most convenient for them: simultaneously with the live session, or independently as their schedule dictates by reviewing the recorded class. Completion of the Atlantic District Lay Deacon Training Program will allow certified Atlantic District Lay Deacons to transfer their status, with some provisions, to other participating Districts.

  • Applicants must complete the Registration Form, as well as provide a letter of support from their congregational Pastor and Parish Council. During the length of the Program and immediately afterwards, each participant will engage in an internship, providing over the course of 200 hours for practical experience in several areas of service. 

  • Each individual cohort is encouraged to meet and view the class together at a central location whenever possible. Such sites will be designated according to need and opportunity during the course of study. IN addition, there are several opportunities for fellowship, including monthly Regional breakfasts and annual rallies, Regional Bible studies, and the annual Atlantic District Lay Deacon Retreat for all members and students, as well as guests. 

  • Begin with prayer. Then speak with your Pastor, share your desire to serve and your willingness to prepare through study and practical experience.