IGNITE is open to anyone interested in learning more about the scriptures, Lutheran doctrine, worship, prayer, and other aspects of our Christian faith.

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We hope that IGNITE will enhance your life and equip you for ministry in the midst of your congregation and the congregations our Allegheny Synod.

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How does it work?

The Allegheny Synod is partnering with the Upper Susquehanna Synod and the Northwestern PA Synod to offer lay worship leader training. The model we are using includes core courses of Scripture, Lutheran Studies, Preaching and Worship Leadership. Each of these classes is offered in multiple sessions through Zoom and in-person classes.

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When students complete each of the core courses, they are authorized by the bishop of their Synod to provide worship leadership in congregations without called pastors. Each Synod has its own guidelines for lay worship leaders. The Allegheny Synod's Operating Principles guide and govern the authorized lay worship leaders of this Synod.

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Once authorized, the lay worship leader is asked to complete at least one continuing education class a year. Each year the bishop will issue an authorization letter to lay worship leaders who meet the requirements of authorization. 

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If you're interested in learning more about the lay worship leader program or need a registration form, please contact the Allegheny Synod office. 

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Information on next class 

Worship Leadership

Worship stands at the center of the Christian life – as the point where God’s people bring the whole of their lives to Christ with thanksgiving and receive edification and nourishment through the Word and Sacraments. Liturgy comprises the aspects of worship that enable and support this exchange through speech, action, and method. This course will focus upon the Church’s liturgy from a Lutheran perspective in relationship to the Bible, history, Church teachings, and leadership.

Rationale/Objectives: - to deepen understanding of the Liturgy through biblical, historical, theological, and cultural influences within worship and the Christian life - to deepen understanding of the Liturgy’s structure and liturgical resources - to gain insight into the churches / contexts in which we worship the Triune God - to experience worship leadership as a presider, assisting minister, reader

 

This course will consist of assigned readings, four (7) Zoom / In-person meetings, written assignments, and a practicum*. *Practicum will provide opportunity for participants to experience worship leadership as a presider, assisting minister, and reader within a church context. Practicums will be scheduled within the participants respective Synod through the Synod office. Virtual meeting connection information will be provided to all registered participants prior to the start of the course on Saturday, May 6th, 2023.  Instructor: The Rev. Tyler J Graham, STS Pastor of the Salisbury Lutheran Parish (Allegheny Synod) (814) 404-7634 - cell/rev-tgraham@outlook.com

Schedule: 

*Time will be given for lunch and breaks throughout the day

Session I – Saturday, May 6th, 2023 – 9:00am ~ Noon

Intro 1: Biblical, Historical, Theological Aspects of Worship

Biblical Foundations, Jewish Roots, Early Christian Worship

 

Session II – Saturday, May 13th, 2023 – 9:00am ~ Noon

Intro 2: Biblical, Historical, Theological Aspects of Worship

Lutheran Christian Worship: Core tenets

 

Session III – Saturday, May 27th, 2023 – 9:00am ~ Noon

Liturgy I: Structure and Content (Ordo)

Liturgical Church Year, Prayers, Music

 

Session IV – Saturday, June 3rd, 2023 – 9:00am ~ Noon

Liturgy 2: Structure and Content (Ordo) Leader Formation

Liturgy of the Hours (Daily Prayer Offices), Sanctoral Calendar

 

Session V – Saturday, June 10th, 2023 – 9:00am ~ Noon

Liturgy 3: Structure and Content (Ordo)

Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of Holy Eucharist Part 1

 

Session VI – Saturday, June 17th, 2023 – 9:00am ~ Noon

Liturgy 4: Structure and Content (Ordo)

Liturgy of Holy Eucharist Part 2

 

Session VII – Saturday, June 24th, 2023 – 9:00am ~ Noon

Worship leadership considerations, resources, Q&A

 

Cost: $50.00. Checks may be made payable to Allegheny Synod DYD and sent to 701 Quail Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602.

The next class: Preaching and Practicum.