Education for Ministry, or EFM as it is affectionately known, is an adult education distance learning experience developed by the School of Theology at the University of the South in Sewanee. Designed to run over a 4 year period, members engage in study of scripture, study of church history, and study of 20th century history. In addition to the texts each group engages regularly in theological reflection, a process developed to explore our life experiences and the issues we face through the spectrum of our faith.

The course is designed to take 33 weeks each year for 4 years. The first year's study centers on the Hebrew Scriptures, the second year is the Christian Testament, 3rd year explores early church history and the documents of that era and the 4th year's focus is the 20th century history of the church. Often people take the 4 years in sequence but occasionally life situations intervene and people must take a year off which is perfectly acceptable.

Internationally, the enrollment this year in EFM is 8,500 and in the Diocese of Maryland there are 17 active groups.

Mentors for the groups are lay people and clergy who have either been through the 4 year course or who have exhibited skills at facilitating a group. The role of the Mentor is one of administration and guide along the way. Mentor training occurs every 12-18 months so that Mentors remain current in their own skill development.

If you are interested in starting a group or would like to be a Mentor, please contact the Diocesan Coordinator, Meg Kimble at meg.kimble@verizon.net or call her at 410-263-6378.

The next diocesan training for EFM mentor training is June, 2007 at the Bishop Claggett Center. For more information and to register, click here.