Education for Ministry (EfM): Celebrating 50 Years of formation and faith

This is an exciting year for Education for Ministry (EfM)! Now in its 50th year, more than 120,000 participants worldwide have joined this remarkable journey of learning and spiritual growth.

EfM began as an offering for lay people to receive seminary-level training in theology – to imagine what the Church might look like if every Christian were equipped to explore faith with depth and confidence. Fifty years later, we are seeing the fruits of that vision.

Now in its fifth revision, EfM’s curriculum has been completely refreshed. All materials and books have been updated, and the Reading and Reflection Guide is now an interactive online resource that integrates multimedia elements. Founded in 1975 by the School of Theology at the University of the South, EfM continues to embody its original mission: to provide serious, evolving theological education for lay people who want to think, reflect, and grow in faith.

EfM invites participants into a four-year program of study – though each person commits to just one year at a time. Following a Benedictine rhythm of prayer, work, and study, groups typically meet three hours a week for 36 weeks each year, with about three hours of preparation between meetings. Most groups run from September through June.

The rewards of EfM are deep, moving, and transformative. It offers one of the few spaces where you can speak openly about your faith, your doubts, and your experiences with God – without judgment. Participants grow in understanding, faith, and purpose, discerning how to use their gifts in God’s creation and in the life of the Church.

As EfM continues to grow, we are actively seeking both new mentors and new participants:

• If you feel called to guide others on their spiritual journey, EfM mentor training offers a rewarding opportunity to nurture faith and facilitate discovery.
• If you long to explore your own faith more deeply, EfM welcomes you to join a community of learners walking together in reflection, conversation, and discernment.

Come be part of this milestone year. Discover, grow, and help others do the same through Education for Ministry.