In Sympathy: James Wilson
Rev. James M. Wilson, a member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025.
Location: via Zoom
Saturday, May 8, 8 am to 12 noon
Saturday, May 22, 8 am to 12 noon
Sunday, May 23, 1 pm to 3 pm
Rockford District Lay Academy
Attendance at all three sessions is required.
Cost: $20
Students must purchase their own books.
Choose one of three classes offered:
PLANNING WORSHIP
Learn the basic pattern of United Methodist worship within the broader context of Christian worship. This class will cover:
- Basic resources for planning and leading worship.
- Practical suggestions how to renew and revitalize worship.
- Being effective leaders in planning and revitalizing worship.
- Understanding and communicating the uniqueness of UM worship.
- Leading the congregation into a deeper and richer experience of God through worship.
Book "Worshipping with United Methodists" by Holt Hickman available on Cokesbury.com or Amazon. ISBN# 9780687335268
AGING & MINISTRY IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Learn how to build a ministry for older adults. While a popular perception is that the aged are needy and infirmed, the majority of older adults have plenty to give. Learn how to tap into their wisdom, energy, experience and talents. This class uses "Aging and Ministry in the 21st Century" by Richard Gentzler. Available at Cokesbury.com or Amazon. ISBN# 9780881775402
LEADING IN PRAYER
Praying in public can be daunting, but prayer is something one learns. This course on praying in public will help the participant grow in confidence and skill in public prayer and enrich their personal prayer life. This class uses "Shaping the Prayers of the People" by Samuel Wells and Abigail Kocher, available from Cokesbury.com or Amazon. ISBN 13 # 9780802870971
Interested in the Lay Servant Basic Course? Please contact Pastor Leslie at jptmom8@gmail.com.