Discernment Cohorts

Laity Discernment Cohort Deadline

July 20, 2026 (for fall semester discernment)

What tools do you need for the journey?

At Garrett, we believe that all are called to ministry, but that each person’s call is as unique as God’s fingerprints on their life. For some, a call is fulfilled in vocational ministry as a pastor. For others, being a lay leader in their congregation and community is where their skills and the world’s needs meet. Part of your vocational journey may be discerning where and how the Spirit leads you to serve.

Regardless of where and how you are called, theological education can support you and offer tools for the journey. Seminary gives you the knowledge to support your work in congregations and communities, the spiritual formation to invigorate your leadership, and the practical skills you need to cultivate communities of justice, compassion and hope.

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Learn about our Laity Discernment Cohort

What is a lay leader?

“Laity” is a term used to describe non-ordained members of the church, and “lay leaders” are those who take on leadership roles within the church without being ordained.

Do I need to be part of a particular denomination to participate in this cohort?

No! Though Garrett is associated with the United Methodist Church, we are ecumenical in nature and value the conversation to be had about what leadership looks like in any and all denominations.

Do I have to be a certified lay leader to participate?

No! If you are looking for ways to better equip yourself for leadership, this can be part of that work.

Can I participate in this cohort if I am considering ordained ministry?

Yes. The only qualifications are that you are not already a clergy person. You can participate in this cohort if you are considering vocational ministry, if you are active in a congregation, and if you are discerning the best ways to be in ministry outside of the church.

Introducing our Deacon Discernment Cohort

Do you feel called to ministry, but serving as a pulpit pastor doesn’t seem like the right fit? Do you want to serve as a bridge between the church and the world? Ordination as a Deacon within The United Methodist Church can help you embody God’s love and justice for a world that needs them.

If you’ve been thinking about the Deacon order, there’s never been a better time to say “yes” to God. Reach out today and we’ll help you take the next step towards ordained ministry.

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What makes the Deacon Discernment Cohort different?

This cohort is specifically for United Methodists who are curious about how they might discover their skills and involvement as ordained Deacons.

All participants in the Cohort take “Ministry of the United Methodist Deacon,” a deeply discounted seminary course for cohort members, with Rev. Dr. Virginia Lee, Garrett’s Associate Professor of Christian Education. This class will help you understand the many contexts in which deacons serve, and offer insight to how that work serves the broader church.

What happens after I complete the cohort?

After the cohort ends, if you feel called to ordination, we’ll help you plan the next steps in that journey. Garrett’s Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry has a new deacon track, which can be an excellent option for students who feel drawn to further study.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

Can I participate if I haven't completed my undergraduate degree?

Undergraduate studies are generally considered the best preparation for graduate-level studies, including the courses we are offering. We can consider applicants who have not completed an undergraduate degree, but we may have some additional steps you need to take, and admission to a graduate program is not guaranteed if you are not prepared to study at that level.

What if I discern that seminary isn't right for me?

That’s okay! There are many reasons students choose not to start a seminary education. What we are most interested in is helping you to discern your next steps, even if that means you don’t go to seminary.

What if I discern seminary, but decide that Garrett isn't the right place for me?

That’s okay too! While we hope that our broad range of offerings, incredible faculty, and robust learning community is a place you can flourish, the reality is that sometimes that just won’t be the case. We want to help you discern the next right step, even if that means that Garrett isn’t the right place for you.