Skip to content

Education for Ministry’s Adult Faith Formation

The Journey with God orientation is August 19th

Seminars begin August 26th!

Orientation is via Zoom at 6pm on Tuesday, August 19. The link will be sent to all registrants in advance.

Register Now

Don’t get left behind — Join EfM’s The Journey with God by following the prompts in the attached link. Email mentor Cynthia McKinley   with any questions you have.

EfM’s all new one-year Wide Angle program is available to everyone — newcomers, current participants, and alumni — and calls especially to those who want to:
  • Limit the amount of time needed to prepare for seminars.
  • Experience a less academic introduction to EfM and Christian formation.
  • Engage in formation through a variety of learning resources such as short readings, blogs, videos, and podcasts; or
  • Enter a faith formation experience as a transition to EfM Classic.

Exploring Ministry Through Education: The EfM Program

Education for Ministry (EfM) stands as a transformative journey in theological education, designed to empower lay Christians in their call to ministry. Developed by the School of Theology at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, this renowned program has guided over 120,000 participants since its inception in 1975.

Overview of EfM

At its heart, EfM invites all to embrace their ministry, emphasizing that service to the community is a universal calling, not solely for ordained clergy. Through worship, service activities, and theological reflection, participants are encouraged to engage actively with their faith.

Program Structure

EfM unfolds over a comprehensive four-year span, with participants enrolling on an annual basis. Each year builds upon the last, offering a structured exploration of theological themes and Christian history:

  • Curriculum: The program offers in-depth explorations of the Old and New Testaments, church history, liturgy, and theological principles. The journey starts with foundational scripture studies, progresses through the rich tapestry of church history, and culminates in the exploration of theology and ethics.

  • Seminars: Small groups, led by trained mentors, form the backbone of EfM. These intimate gatherings (typically comprising 6-12 members) provide a nurturing environment for dialogue, personal reflection, and collaborative learning.

Goals and Benefits

EfM aims to enrich participants’ spiritual understanding and empower them to articulate and embody their Christian beliefs in everyday life. By fostering a vibrant community of exploration and mutual support, the program bridges faith with practical ministry applications. Graduates earn a certificate upon completing the four-year journey and accumulate Continuing Education Units (CEUs), underscoring their ongoing commitment to lifelong learning and service.

Whether you’re starting your journey or seeking to deepen your faith-rooted engagement, EfM at Saint Barnabas invites you to explore, grow, and connect in new and profound ways.

About Saint Barnabas

Welcome to www.saintbarnabas.org, our church community’s online expression of our life and mission. If you are looking for a place that feels like home, a place where friends remember your name and become excited when they see you across the patio, a place where members share the value of deep, life-changing faith in Jesus, you’ve come to the right place. All are welcome.