LEAD: Growing Lay Leadership for the Future of MCC
Across MCC, there is a growing sense that we are being called into something new. Many of us are asking what it means to lead faithfully in this moment, how we grow leaders who are grounded, thoughtful, and prepared, and how we ensure the future of our churches is shaped by empowered laity.
One of the ways MCC has been answering that call is through LEAD, our lay leadership development program.
What Is LEAD?
LEAD is MCC’s lay leadership development program designed to support, form, and equip laity for leadership in the church and beyond. It is not simply a training program or a set of courses. LEAD is a journey of growth that centers formation, discernment, and community.
The LEAD journey begins with an in-person retreat that brings together participants from across the region, followed by ongoing learning, reflection, and mentoring. Along the way, participants deepen their understanding of themselves, their leadership gifts, and how they are called to serve.
LEAD is for people who feel a nudge to grow, to lead more fully, or to explore how God may be calling them to step into new roles of service.
North American LEAD 15: What’s Coming Up
The next North American LEAD retreat, LEAD 15, will take place in May 2026. This retreat marks the beginning of a new cohort’s LEAD journey and offers space for connection, reflection, and discernment alongside others from across MCC.
Applications for LEAD 15 are currently open.
Spots are limited, and applications are reviewed as they are received.
We recognize that cost can sometimes feel like a barrier. Scholarships are available, and cost should never prevent someone from applying or participating.
Not Done Yet?
If you have already started LEAD but have not yet completed the program, you are not alone. LEAD was never meant to be rushed or completed on a fixed timeline.
If you are partway through your LEAD journey and wondering what comes next, this may be a good time to reconnect. Consider reaching out to your cohort leader or mentor to talk through where you are and what steps might help you continue. Sometimes a conversation is all it takes to find a clear and manageable path forward.
LEAD is a journey, and there is room to pick it back up.
LEAD Is Bigger Than One Retreat
While this message is focused on North American LEAD, the vision for LEAD continues to grow.
In 2026, MCC will also be launching LEAD programs in Europe and Brazil, with curriculum shaped by regional context while sharing common core foundations. These new programs reflect a growing commitment to laity development across the global church.
LEAD is becoming a shared investment in leadership formation, rooted in MCC’s values and responsive to the diverse contexts of our communities.
How You Can Be Part of LEAD
There are many ways to support and participate in LEAD:
- Apply to LEAD if you feel called to grow in your leadership
- Encourage someone in your congregation to consider applying
- Support participants through prayer and encouragement
- Contribute to scholarship support so cost is never a barrier
- Share information about LEAD with others in your network
Whether you are discerning your own next step or helping someone else take theirs, your support matters.
Learn More and Take the Next Step
For information about North American LEAD 15, including the application, click here.
If you would like to support LEAD through scholarship donations or sponsorship, click here.
If you have questions about LEAD or laity development, you are welcome to reach out at:
[LEAD@MCCchurch.net]