By ByeongThe PACE Training Manual consists of twelve training modules derived from Dr. Melvin J. Steinbron’s first book, Can the Pastor Do It Alone? As Dr. Steinbron launched this ministry at College Hill Presbyterian Church (CHPC) in Cincinnati, Ohio, he developed its principles through practical ministry. Those experiences later became his doctoral dissertation and were eventually published as the book that introduced the Lay Pastors Ministry to churches around the world.
From this work, Dr. Steinbron identified twelve essential training areas and organized them into the PACE Training Manual. These modules have been used successfully for more than 35 years in the United States, 15 years in Korea, and are now being introduced in Nagaland, India. They continue to provide a solid foundation for equipping Lay Pastors for effective caring ministry.
Module 1: Concept and Theology
The first module introduces the biblical and theological foundation of the Lay Pastors Ministry. It examines key biblical passages together with insights from respected Christian scholars and practitioners. This unit helps participants understand what the Lay Pastors Ministry is and why it is an essential ministry of the church.
Module 2: Caring—Who Needs It?
This module focuses on the ministry of caring. The answer to the question, “Who needs care?” is simple: everyone does. Caring is the very heart of the Lay Pastors Ministry. Every believer experiences seasons of joy, struggle, loneliness, grief, or transition, making intentional Christian care an ongoing necessity.
Module 3: Job Description
This module explains the role and responsibilities of a Lay Pastor. It introduces the principles of PACE and outlines the commitments expected of those who serve. By the end of this unit, participants gain a clear understanding of both the privilege and the responsibility of being a Lay Pastor.
Module 4: Calling
Calling is not reserved only for ordained pastors. Just as God calls pastors into ministry, He also calls lay believers to serve His people. Throughout my experience, I have observed that a Lay Pastor’s awareness of God’s calling greatly influences the effectiveness and perseverance of his or her ministry. This module strengthens that sense of divine calling and commitment.
Module 5: Relationship
Healthy relationships are the foundation of caring ministry. Unfortunately, churches sometimes overlook the importance of building meaningful relationships. This module emphasizes developing trust, friendship, and genuine concern for others, because effective care always grows out of healthy relationships.
Module 6: Listening
Listening is one of the most important skills in pastoral care. This module teaches participants how to listen carefully, compassionately, and without judgment. Listening is not a skill learned once and forgotten; it must be continually practiced and strengthened throughout one’s ministry. For that reason, listening should be revisited regularly during re-equipping and continuing education sessions.
Module 7: Being and Doing
The Lay Pastors Ministry is certainly about doing PACE, but effective ministry begins with being the kind of person God desires us to become. Outward ministry flows from inward maturity. This module encourages participants to cultivate Christlike character, emotional health, and spiritual maturity so that their service reflects the heart of Christ.
Module 8: Spirituality
Every church seeks to nurture spiritual growth, yet it is always beneficial to examine our own spiritual lives again. This module encourages Lay Pastors to develop a healthy relationship with God through prayer, Scripture, worship, and daily obedience. A healthy spirituality becomes the source of effective caring ministry.
Module 9: Visitation
Visitation may seem natural to some people, while others feel anxious about visiting someone—especially a person they do not know well. This module provides practical guidance and confidence for home visits, hospital visits, and other pastoral encounters, helping Lay Pastors minister with wisdom, sensitivity, and love.
Module 10: Being Professional
When people hear the word professional, they often think of someone with advanced degrees, certificates, or specialized credentials. However, in the Lay Pastors Ministry, professionalism is measured by faithful preparation, competence, integrity, and commitment rather than academic qualifications alone. Rev. David Kim, Senior Pastor of Hallelujah Church, once remarked that Lay Pastors are professionals in the ministry of PACE because they are carefully trained and faithfully serve God’s people.
Module 11: Confidentiality
Confidentiality is one of the most critical principles in caring ministry. People can only share their struggles honestly when they know their confidence will be respected. During my Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) training in Canada, my supervisors repeatedly emphasized the importance of confidentiality. I have come to appreciate even more how essential this principle is for every Lay Pastor. Trust cannot exist without confidentiality.
Module 12: Dealing with Difficulties
Every ministry encounters challenges, and the Lay Pastors Ministry is no exception. Some people may believe they do not need a Lay Pastor. Others may be too busy to receive visits. Some Lay Pastors may lose enthusiasm or become inactive, and occasionally we will face problems beyond our ability to solve. This module prepares participants to recognize these challenges and respond to them wisely, patiently, and faithfully. Rather than discouraging us, difficulties can become opportunities for growth and deeper dependence on God.
As I reflect on these twelve modules, I remain deeply grateful to Dr. Melvin J. Steinbron for developing this training manual. Through these carefully designed lessons, thousands of believers have been equipped to care for God’s people with biblical understanding, practical skills, and compassionate hearts. I pray that this manual will continue to equip many more Lay Pastors around the world for years to come.