The Episcopal Dioceses of El Camino Real, Northern California, and San Diego are accepting applications for the 2025 English language cohort to prepare individuals to apply for a Lay Preaching License (the Spanish language cohort will begin recruiting in January). We are seeking adult learners of all ages and educational backgrounds who are actively involved in ministry in their congregations and demonstrate gifts in lay leadership. Participants must be members of a congregation within one of our three partner dioceses.

Who is this for? Lay members of our congregations with gifts for preaching and leadership in ministry.

What will we study? Biblical exegesis and preaching theory and practice.

Where will we meet? On Zoom

When will we meet? Once each month on the fourth Thursday from 5 – 9 p.m, beginning in Feburary of 2025.

What else will I need to do? Prepare for each Zoom session by watching video lectures and completing assigned reading and written reflections before we meet.

How much time will the preparation take? Every student is different but at least 4 – 12 hours per month

How long is the course? 11 Months

What will it cost? $600 and scholarships will be available. Congregations will be encouraged to partner in supporting their students if needed. The intention is for this to be an affordable opportunity for any students who show the gifts for lay preaching and leadership.
Is there anything else? The course will culminate in an in-person preaching retreat in April of 2026

Application Process:
1. Fill out the online application by December 2, 2024
2. Let your Rector/Vicar/Priest in Charge know that a request for them to fill out the recommendation form will be coming in their email box.

Questions? Contact the dean for your diocese:
San Diego: The Rev. Susan J. Latimer deansfm@edsd.org