What Is a Lay Pastor?
Last Updated Mar 30, 2020 11:57:40 PM ET

A lay pastor, or a lay minister, is someone who is not ordained but who tends to a Christian community for little or no money. This type of ministry is usually associated with non-Episcopal churches. Lay pastors do not have the same training or education as ordained ministers.
The words "lay" or "laity" come from the Greek word "laos," which refers to people in general, and is used to define those who are not professional or ordained. Lay pastors are usually appointed by members of their local churches. They usually attend training services organized by their church. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints operates using a lay ministry.
More From Reference

What Are the Steps of Presidential Impeachment?

What Does George Soros' Open Society Foundations Network Fund?

The History of the United States' Golden Presidential Dollars

How the COVID-19 Pandemic Has Changed Schools and Education in Lasting Ways

Fact Check: Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Safe?

How Does the 25th Amendment Work — and When Should It Be Enacted?