About EfM
For 47 years EfM has been providing education for lay people (and some clergy) that makes a difference. Those who have completed our programme have a solid understanding of scripture, the story of the church in the last 2000 years and the skills to discern God’s presence in the everyday world around them
What is EfM
All Christians are called to live out their faith in daily life. EfM is short for Education for Ministry. In each EfM seminar, you’ll experience community by praying, studying, worshiping, reflecting, and discovering our unique way of walking in the world through faith. Through these five practices, we build community right from the start.
You may wonder what Theological Reflection is. It is the heart of EfM — it is what makes it not just a Bible study. Using everyday experiences, we connect our heart and head! It is the bridge between the Bible and our lives. It is a technique that enables our faith to impact our lives. It is an intentional disciplined conversation — we are putting things into conversation with God and others. Through the lens of faith, we see the movement of God in our lives, which leads us to grow and transform.
In New Zealand EfM has two full year programmes and from time to time also offers short courses.
EfM: Classic
EfM: Classic is a four year programme that covers Christian Scripture, Church History, Christian Ethics and Spirituality. The four years all have a central question
The Old Testament
A study of the Hebrew Bible. The why, when and who of the Torah, the histories, the wisdom literature, the psalms and the prohpets
The New Testament
A look at how Judaism in Jesus’ time differed from what is found in the Old Testament.
Where and how do the Gospels differ. What were the letters saying to the early church.
Church History
This study looks at the history of the global Church and at the history of the Church in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Christian Spirituality and Ethics
What is being an ethical Christian today. What spiritual practices can bring s closer to God.
EfM: Wide Angle
Wide Angle is a one year programme that can be done stand-alone, or before, after or part way through the four year programme.
In New Zealand most study groups have a mixture of people at different years in the four year programme and sometimes people doing Wide Angle as well.
There are four themes in the EfM Cycle from 2026 to 2029. These will proably be repeated from 2030.
- 2026 The Journey with God
- 2027 Following Jesus
- 2028 Listening to the Spirit
- 2029 Engaging the World
EfM has 5 core practices. While not every core practice will be part of every meeting of the group it is these practices that lie at the heart of EfM and make it more than just study.
Who is EfM For?
If can answer yes to any of these questions then EfM is for you.
Do you enjoy meaningful conversation with trusted seekers?
Do you question different interpretations of biblical passages and want to explore them more deeply?
Do you seek fellowship that goes beyond coffee hour?
Are you seeking God and desire others to accompany you on your search?
Does Sunday worship whet your appetite for more?
Ready to begin your journey?