CENTERVILLE — One of the best parts of the Education for Ministry (EfM) course offered at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection is the camaraderie members share.

“Sharing our faith journey has made us so close and comfortable with each other,” said Sunshine O’Meara. “We are at ease with one another and are able to express our differences of opinion without any trepidation.”

O’Meara’s feelings are echoed by course member Jeani Allison. “We have shared some of our most private thoughts and stories and feel safe doing so,” she said. “A special bond has formed over this last year.”

O’Meara, Allison and six others took the first year of the course together last year, and are preparing for the second year of the four-year course, beginning in late August. This year, several others may join the group.

EfM brings groups of six to 12 people together weekly for 34 weeks to study, worship and share insights about who God is and what God is saying, said the Rev. Lyn Briggs, rector of the church and EfM mentor.

It was put together by Sewanee Theological Seminary, University of the South in Sewanee,Tenn., and is meant for lay people.

“The EfM program is preparation for the ministry to which we are all called,” according to the EfM website.

For more information check out the July 26 edition of Davis Clipper.