To return to this table of contents click on the EFM symbol
EFM is a Bible Study programme conducted in small groups in the local area, under the guidance of a trained EFM mentor (leader) and supported by a Regional Co-ordinator and national Trainers. EFM or Education for Ministry is a four year programme designed to enable adults to exercise their own unique ministry. It combines contemporary Biblical scholarship with training in theological reflection.
At the heart of the process of theological reflection is the activity of choosing a metaphor to illustrate the common experience shared by the learners. This is done playfully and spontaneously, unleashing powerful new possibilities for theological understanding.
Mentor training and subsequently the EFM group focuses on being a prayerful community. It provides a good foundation for prayer and spirituality by fostering real bonds among the participants arising from shared prayer, the struggle to accept differences and the celebration of shared experience. The depth of relationship that comes from meeting together for such a significant length of time allows participants to realise their own capabilities, and the necessity for their involvement in the issues of the world and consequently the Church.
The entire EFM Programme takes place in the local setting. The mentor (group leader) comes from the local area and is trained by an EFM Trainer in the principles and practices of adult learning within the EFM Programme. Most groups are interdenominational.
Based on experience, EFM successfully integrates the Bible with life. While the text is solidly intellectual, it also embraces the emotional and spiritual aspects of everyday living. EFM assumes without question that the Story of the People of God is intimately related to our story and vice versa.
By using current Biblical understanding, EFM offers a nee sense of purpose to Christians. It challenges those who have some Biblical background as well as those with little acquaintance with the Bible or its meaning for modern Christians. By emphasising the different perspective's that adults bring to the task of Biblical study and reflection, EFM frees people from stereotyped and rigid positions. They are thereby enabled to make full use of the Scriptures which are theirs by right and in turn to enable others to do likewise.
The approach assumes that adults are capable and responsible for their own learning. EFM is genuinely respectful of persons and affirms them and enables them to achieve their full potential. The valuing of each person's experience and the small-group approach allows people to draw on their abilities and self-motivation.
Southland: Adrianne Stewart, P.O. Box 11, Dipton, Southland or email Stewart.dipton@xtra.co.nz
Otago: Jan Clark, 102 Victoria Road, Dunedin, or email jan.alec@paradise.net.nz
[Diocese Home] [About Us] [News] [Parishes] [Resources] [Contact] [Feedback]