Scott Mithen, a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Bainbridge, received his certificate of completion of Education for Ministry studies.

EfM is a program of theological education for lay people offered by extension from the School of Theology of the University of the South, Sewanee, Tenn.

EfM originated in the mid-1970s as an extension course, based on the seminary curriculum, for lay people who needed further theological training but did not feel called to the ordained ministry.

What began as a small experimental course has now become a world-wide network with more than 9,000 graduates and 7,500 students enrolled.

EfM combines the traditional functions of fellowship group and Bible study with a method of theological reflection. Four years, committed one year at a time, contains the studies of the Old Testament, the New Testament, church history, and theological and moral choices.

The program is offered in the local congregation, led by a mentor (lay or clergy) who is trained by the School of Theology to facilitate the seminar group. Meeting weekly for nine months of the year, over a four-year period, the student experiences readings in Scripture, church history and contemporary issues.