The Southwestern Washington Synod seeks to form and support trustworthy, inclusive lay leaders who are grounded in Christian faith and in a Lutheran expression of faith. The Path for Strengthening Active Lay Ministry (PSALM) is designed for congregation members who have discerned a call to more intentional and public lay leadership in their congregation and community. PSALM is a two-year small group program that takes place over four terms. Each term is approximately 6 months long and begins with an overnight retreat. The coursework for the term is introduced at the retreat by a variety of presenters who bring expertise to the topics. In addition to course assignments each term, students will work on practical ministry projects in their congregation or ministry setting. They will have an opportunity to share these projects with each other as part of the retreats. Questions? Please email Pastor Michelle de Beauchamp, Bishop’s Associate, Southwestern Washington Synod or call the office at 253-999-1190. Registration for the 2026 Fall Cohort is now open. Support documents for the 2026 Fall PSALM Cohort can be found here: PSALM Information Trifold PSALM Candidate Application PSALM Congregational Support Covenant PSALM Pastoral Recommendation Deadline to submit paperwork for the Fall Cohort is August 1, 2026. | 
