LAMP
(Leadership and Ministry Preparation) Formation Program
Nebraska Conference of the United Church of Christ
(Leadership and Ministry Preparation) Formation Program
Nebraska Conference of the United Church of Christ
The Leadership and Ministry Preparation (LAMP) Program of the Nebraska Conference of the United Church of Christ exists to provide accessible and relevant theological education for people serving at all levels of ministry within the Conference. Through a combination of self-paced, on-demand courses and focused mini-courses, LAMP supports individuals who are exploring a call, preparing for authorized lay or licensed ministry, or seeking to deepen their leadership and theological understanding. Rooted in the life and values of the Nebraska Conference of the United Church of Christ, the program brings together theological learning, practical training, and ongoing formation in ways that meet people where they are.
LAMP promotes growth and leadership for individuals serving in ministry through the following programs and coursework:
These learning pathways reflect the Conference’s deep commitment to forming faithful, capable leaders for congregations, associations, and the wider church—while honoring the reality that discernment, growth, and learning unfold across a lifetime of service.
LAMP courses and mini-courses are intentionally designed to support learners at different stages of calling and leadership. Offered in a thoughtful sequence, each course provides a clear and meaningful learning experience that may lead to a Learning Acknowledgement and, when appropriate and granted by an individual’s Association, potential Lay Ministerial Standing as a Servant of the Word or Sacramental Servant. These offerings are purposefully connected, allowing learners to build over time toward a Certificate of Theological Education and Leadership and, when granted by an Association, potential Licensed Ministerial Standing.
At its heart, LAMP affirms that learning in the church never truly ends. Through its Continuing Education for All program, alongside its formation and leadership pathways, LAMP serves those who are exploring a call, preparing for service as a Servant of the Word or Sacramental Servant, stepping into new leadership, seeking continuing education, engaging in spiritual formation, or simply taking a course for personal enrichment. In all of this, LAMP offers pathways for lifelong learning—supporting clergy, lay leaders, and all who desire to grow in faith, confidence, and service within the life of the church.