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Class Descriptions for the Core Program
The Core Program is set-up so students can complete all eight courses in two years (4 courses each year) or chose to take courses at a pace that works for them. The full list and course descriptions are as follows:
2025-2026 Core Courses
đź“– Introduction to Theology: A Journey Through Death and Resurrection
This year’s theology course explores what many consider the distinctive core of Lutheran thought—the theology of the cross. Central to this theology is the conviction that God is profoundly present in the most unexpected places and circumstances: born in a manger, dining with outcasts and sinners, and dying on a cross. Through rigorous readings and reflective discussions, students will examine how this theology shapes our understanding of God, informs our discourse and teaching, guides the questions we ask, and profoundly influences how we live out our faith, especially in times of suffering and loss.
đź“– Old Testament/Hebrew Bible
Comprising nearly 77% of the Christian scriptures, the Old Testament is frequently overlooked or misunderstood within Christian communities. This course investigates its origins, historical context, and the rationale behind its various compositions. Students will engage with the overarching narrative of the Old Testament, developing fluency in its reading and appreciating its enduring relevance to Christian faith and practice.
đź“– Introduction to the New Testament
The New Testament, the second portion of the Christian biblical canon, follows the Jewish scriptures (the Old Testament) and provides the theological and historical foundation for Christian faith. This 27-book collection, written predominantly in the latter half of the first century by diverse authors and communities, contains the teachings and narratives of Jesus found in the four canonical gospels, as well as theological reflections, ethical instruction, and apostolic struggles addressing key challenges faced by the early Church. The course aims to foster a working knowledge of the New Testament’s content and deepen students’ appreciation of the God revealed through Jesus Christ.
đź“– Liturgy and Life
Derived from the Greek term meaning “the work of the people,” liturgy represents the communal activity of worship involving ministers of Word and Sacrament and the gathered assembly. This course explores the theological foundations and practical functions of liturgy, including the Means of Grace, the structure and significance of various liturgical elements, and the history and theology of rituals marking life passages such as baptism, marriage, funerals, and healing services. Additionally, students will study the origin and meaning of the Christian liturgical calendar, including feasts and seasons. Graduates of this course will be equipped to assist with worship leadership and planning within their congregations.
đź“– Lutheran Confessions
Marking over five centuries since Martin Luther’s posting of the Ninety-Five Theses, this course invites students to critically engage with what it means to be Lutheran in the contemporary world. It considers the relevance of Lutheran identity and theology in ecumenical dialogues, interfaith contexts, and secular society. Key learning outcomes include a clearer articulation of personal and communal Lutheran identity, an understanding of the Lutheran Confessions as a guide to living faith actively in love and service, and enhanced ability to engage in worship, service, and witness alongside Christians from diverse traditions.
đź“– Church History
Anchored in the historic confession, “We believe in the one holy catholic and apostolic Church,” this course offers a broad survey of church history from the Day of Pentecost to the global Church today. Highlighting pivotal events and movements that have shaped the Church’s development, students will explore themes of controversy, heresy, reform, and renewal, as well as exemplary proclamation, witness, and service. Through this study, students will reflect on God’s enduring faithfulness manifested in the Church throughout the ages.
đź“– Faith and Spirituality (Discovering Spiritual Practices)
This course invites students to deepen their relationship with God through the exploration and practice of spiritual disciplines—intentional acts of loving obedience that open individuals to God’s transformative work in their lives (Mulholland, Invitation to a Journey, 1993). Emphasizing the power of Christian community, students will engage with Scripture, prayer, listening to the Holy Spirit, and sharing their spiritual journeys in a supportive learning environment.
đź“– Faith and Spirituality (Defining and Deepening Spirituality)
Often the greatest spiritual journey is moving from intellectual understanding to heartfelt transformation. This course facilitates the integration of biblical knowledge and Christian doctrine into the inner life of students, helping them to experience God’s love deeply and authentically. Employing a combination of textual study (informed by Dr. Brame’s work), prayer, silence, and communal sharing, participants will grow in their capacity to articulate their faith and embrace the joy of Christian community.
đź“š Core Program Textbooks
Old Testament
Rev. Dr. Niveen Sarras
Friday 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Coogan, Michael D. A Brief Introduction to the Old Testament: The Hebrew Bible in Its Context. New York: Oxford University Press, 2006. (any edition)
Longman, Tremper III. Introducing the Old Testament: A Short Guide to Its History and Message. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2012. ISBN-10: 0310291488 or ISBN-13: 978-0310291480
Liturgy and Life
Rev. Jen Fite
Friday 8:10-9:40 p.m.
 Using Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Vol 1: The Sunday Assembly.
ISBN 9781506425108 (Available through Augsburg Fortress or Amazon in both hardcover or paperback)
RECOMMENDED BUT NOT REQUIRED: Vol 1 and 2 of Using Evangelical Worship: The Christian Life and Keeping Time.
Faith and Spirituality
Rev. Cheryl Davis
Saturday 9:00-10:30 a.m.
Spiritual Classics: Selected Readings on the Twelve Spiritual Disciplines. Editors: Richard J. Foster and Emilie Griffin. Pub: Renovare ISBN-100060628723 (The Edition is not an issue. Available through Amazon)
Introduction to Theology: A Journey through Death and ResurrectionÂ
Rev. Rachel Knoke (Sept. and Oct. led by Rev. Jen Czarnota)
Saturday 10:40-12:10 p.m.
On Being a Theologian of the Cross, by Gerhard Forde
ISBN-10:‎ 080284345X or ISBN-13: ‏ 978-0802843456
Accidental Saints, by Nadia Bolz-Weber, ISBN-10: 1601427565 or ISBN-13: 978-1601427564
Selections from A Testament to Freedom, by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (provided)
đź’° Tuition & Book Fees
The Lay School of Ministry provides flexible learning opportunities designed to accommodate the diverse needs of lay participants.
Please note: Beginning with the 2025–2026 academic year, a nominal increase in course fees (detailed below) will take effect, and enrollment will be capped at a maximum of 25 students per course. Priority enrollment will be extended to current Core Program students, with remaining seats allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Any Core Program student not registered by Friday, September 5, 2025, will forfeit their seat, which will then be made available to other eligible applicants. Students will be notified if their enrollment places them on a waitlist.
Core Certificate Program
Classes are scheduled on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings, one weekend per month. Students aiming to complete the program within two years are encouraged to enroll in all four courses offered each year.
Tuition: $125 per course or $400 for the full set of four courses. Students are responsible for procuring their own textbooks; the required book list is available via the “Helpful Student Resources” link.
One Course at a Time Option
For those interested in pursuing select courses rather than the full certificate, the Lay School offers three thematic tracks: Bible, History, and Faith & Spirituality. Individual courses within these tracks may be applied toward the Core Certificate Program should the student choose to continue their studies.
Tuition: $125 per course. Students purchase their own textbooks; the book list is accessible under the “Helpful Student Resources” section.
Financial Assistance
Scholarships of up to $250 are available to assist with tuition costs. Students are encouraged to seek financial support from their congregations prior to applying for scholarships offered by the ECSW Lay School of Ministry.
🗓️ Typical Course Schedule
Friday Evening:
5:15 – 6:00 p.m. Dinner
6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Old Testament- Rev. Dr. Niveen Sarras
8:10 – 9:40 p.m. Liturgy and Life- Rev. Jen Fite
Saturday Morning:
8:00 – 8:30 a.m. Breakfast
8:30 – 8:50 a.m. Worship
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Faith and Spirituality- Rev. Cheryl Davis
10:40 – 12:10 p.m. Lutheran Theology- Rev. Rachel Knoke
🤝 Student Mentors
All Core Program students are expected to have a designated mentor. The pastor-mentor component of the Core Program is designed as a tool to encourage self-understanding and personal growth.Â
There is a registration form for all mentors. Please direct your mentor to "Mentor Resources" under the "Resources" tab above.
If you do not have a mentor, let us know and we will work to find you one.
Why do you love Lay School?
"I have asked that question to myself numerous times, the only answer I can come up with is the Lord led me to this chapter in my life. I have always cared deeply for people I know and don’t know and wondered how I could help them. Which led me to serving shut ins communion. I have learned that listening, encouragement, and conversation go a long way with helping homebound to feel good about themselves. Which in turn I began to feel the pull to do more for the church family. Then the lay school bulletin came out and I prayed and talked it over with my Pastor and she thought it would by a good fit. So, lay school was it and am I ever proud, glad, and humbled that the difference I hope I can contribute to fellow Christians and maybe turn a few into Christians. The schooling is amazing and fulfilling to me…"
Jackie Bushar
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