WHAT IS THE SOUTHEAST ASIAN LAY TRAINING PROGRAM?

   Presbyteries are looking for ways to help Southeast Asian congregations enjoy all the advantages of the Presbyterian Church (USA), including

seminary - training leadership.  The Southeast Asian Lay Training Program, initiated by General Assembly’s National Laotian Presbyterian Council through

Rev. Dr. James Oudom, educates key leaders in the basic Presbyterian doctrine and practice as prescribed for Lay Commissioned Pastors in the Book of Order.

  The program consists of six core courses taught over the course of three summers: Reform Theology / Presbyterian Polity / Worship & Sacrament / Bible Interpretation / Teaching in the Reform Tradition / Reform Preaching.

  Interpretation into SEA languages are provided by members of the National Councils of the Southeast Asian Committees of the PCUSA. Other languages can also be provided as needed.

  Successful completion of the six courses earns certification that the graduate has received adequate education to carry out the duties of a lay commissioned pastor. 

   Austin Seminary via its Office of Continuing Education will issue 1.5 Credit Unit certification of each course study.

  Courses for continuing education such as Pastoral Care or Mission & Evangelism and others may be offered, if requested. 

   It is not expected that presbyteries will delay commissioning until the training process is completed.  Lack of lay commissioned pastors has resulted in Southeast Asian Congregations not celebrating the Holy Sacraments of the Lord in their own language, often for several years. 

   The Lay Training Certification Program is meant to speed, not slow, the commissioning process.  Full partnership in ministry and worship is the goal