News
A Commitment to Serving the Church
May 16, 2022
By Rev. Carol Mapa, PMA Administrator
Approximately 30 years ago the Nebraska Synod ELCA held an orientation program for over 40 interested individuals who felt a desire to serve the church following a deeper study in Biblical Studies, Theology, Practical Ministry, Worship, Church History and Education. The response was incredible! The good news is that same program is still offering training and certifying lay leaders in the Synod today in 2022!
The Parish Ministry Associate ministry program, along with congregations, pastors, and community members, identifies and equips lay people for serving congregations where they can utilize their God-given gifts in a variety of capacities. The PMA serves in support of and assistance to the regularly called pastor serving the congregation. PMAs are also utilized for pulpit supply, serving as authorized PMAs in settings where a full-time/part-time pastor is not present. A PMA can serve on staff, and in several cases they may serve on staff at other facilities as chaplains. The Nebraska Synod ELCA utilizes Parish Ministry Associates in all these ways. Parish Ministry Associates are vital to our Synod and the Church as clergy numbers decline and yet, the need is great.
The study format for Parish Ministry Associates is self-paced; lasting anywhere from 2-5 years. The courses are offered in a variety of ways: in-person facilitator-led; on-line ZOOM. In addition, the program utilizes the coursework on SELECT Learning, an adult learning experience that provides learning under the guidance of seminary and college instructors. Some course titles: “Getting Down to Basics: Augsburg Confession & Small Catechism”; “Reformation History”; “Good God Questions” and many more.
The PMA program has a Program Director (Bishop Brian Maas), an administrative assistant (Pr. Carol Mapa), and a PMA Steering Committee, which representation includes: Certified PMAs, a PMA student and clergy from the synod. The main office is located in the western Synod office in North Platte, Nebraska.
The Parish Ministry Program is a program that lay leaders can use; but it is first and foremost a program that allows those committed to serving in the church to be used by God to serve God and neighbor in unique and wonderful ways.
Please look over the attached PMA brochure and if you have any questions please contact Bishop Brian Maas, PMA Program Director OR Pr. Carol Mapa, PMA Administrator.