What is the Education for Ministry Program?

Education For Ministry (EFM) is the distance learning theological education program of the School of Theology of the University of the South (Episcopal). Completion of the program takes four years, during which participants study the Bible, church history, and contemporary theology.
 

What is the purpose of EFM?

EFM provides a comprehensive, experiential education in the foundations and message of our Christian faith.
 

Who enrolls in EFM?

EFM is for the laity of the church. Every Christian receives the call to Christ's ministry at baptism and confirmation. EFM provides the basics of a theological education in order to develop knowledge and confidence about the ministry we all share. Since its beginning in 1975, over 40,000 people have been enrolled in EFM.
 

What can you expect from EFM?

You will find that EFM teaches you how to think theologically, deepens your faith and your understanding of our Christian heritage and provides you with a new confidence to be Christ's minister.
 

How does EFM work?

Mentored by the Revs. Laury Larson and Rosalind Powell, students reflect theologically, discuss the materials studied and worship together. A lesson and study guide are provided for students to read each week. There are no tests or papers to write because EFM presupposes that adult education best takes place when the student is responsible for his or her own learning.