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You may have also asked yourself this question, or heard others wonder the same. But instead of answering based on personal opinions or assumptions, let’s go straight to the most authoritative source — the Church of the Nazarene Manual. This is where we get clarity, not confusion. So, what does the Manual actually say about laypersons becoming pastors or evangelists? Let’s find out.
CAN A LAYPERSON BE A PASTOR OR EVANGELIST?
Understanding Lay Ministry Roles in the Church of the Nazarene
Manual Reference: Paragraph 503 – Ministry of Laypersons
1. YES — LAYPERSONS MAY BE ASSIGNED AS PASTORS OR EVANGELISTS
The Manual is clear about this
- Paragraph 503.1 – “The Church of the Nazarene recognizes a specific ministry of laypersons in the church. A layperson may be assigned as pastor, evangelist, missionary, teacher, administrator, chaplain, or in special service.”
This means the church provides opportunities for non-ordained members to serve in leadership roles depending on their calling and the church’s need.
2. LAY MINISTRY IS A SERIOUS CALLING
This is not just helping out—it’s an approved form of ministry
- Paragraph 503.2 – Lay members who feel called to serve in roles like evangelists or bivocational pastors can pursue a certificate in lay ministry.
This allows members who feel led to serve—without seeking ordination—to receive training and recognition through an official process.
3. LOCAL CHURCH BOARD MUST APPROVE AND ISSUE CERTIFICATION
There is an official process for lay ministry approval
- Paragraphs 503.3–503.4 – The local church board, based on the pastor’s recommendation, approves the lay minister and issues a certificate signed by the pastor and church board secretary.
This certificate confirms the individual is spiritually prepared and has shown dedication to the church.
4. TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR CONTINUED SERVICE
Education is part of the ministry journey
- Paragraph 503.5 – To renew their certificate each year, lay ministers must complete at least two subjects in the Continuing Lay Training program and submit an annual report to the church board.
This ensures that lay ministers grow in their knowledge and stay active in ministry.
5. DISTRICT LEADERSHIP INVOLVEMENT FOR BROADER ASSIGNMENTS
Wider ministry requires higher oversight
- Paragraphs 503.6–503.7 – If a layperson serves beyond their local church, the District Advisory Board and district superintendent provide oversight, issue the certificate, and handle renewals.
This provides structure and accountability when ministry goes beyond one congregation.
6. SPECIALIZED TRAINING FOR SPECIFIC MINISTRY AREAS
Each calling has a focus area
- Paragraph 503.8 – After finishing the main course of study, lay ministers continue training in their actual specific area of ministry through Continuing Lay Training.
This helps them become more effective in their unique calling,½ whether it’s teaching, preaching, or serving.
7. CERTAIN SACRAMENTS REMAIN RESERVED FOR ORDAINED MINISTERS
Some spiritual duties are not permitted for lay ministers
- Paragraph 503.9 – Lay ministers “shall not baptize, administer the Lord’s Supper, or officiate at marriages.”
These acts are reserved for those who have been officially ordained by the church.
According to Paragraph 503 of the Manual, a layperson can serve as a pastor or evangelist under church supervision. This ministry is supported by training, certification, and accountability at both local and district levels. However, certain responsibilities are reserved for ordained ministers.
