In 1961, the Reverend David S. King, then Chaplain of Amherst College and later Associate Minister of the First Congregational Church in Amherst, founded the Laymen's Academy for Oecumenical Studies (L.A.O.S.). King proposed that a "new oecumenical ministry" be begun in Western Massachusetts, based in Amherst, that would appeal to local citizens and draw from local religious leadership. Its mission was to inspire people to act upon their religious faith in their daily lives and occupations, and develop programs aimed at reinvigorating religious dialogue and cooperation between denominations. Based on King's belief that "laymen are the missionaries of the future", members were encouraged and trained to lead many L.A.O.S. efforts, particularly "Faith and Life" meetings. Laymen's Academy is raising the funds necessary to purchase and develop an ecumenical center which offers Bible studies, spiritual direction, fellowship (meals), retreats, and resources for spiritual growth. This mission was created in 1961 and the current board of directors hopes to fulfill this mission before the 65th anniversary of the original founders.

Mission – “To educate and train laymen, both within and outside the church, to work for the renewal of the church and a keener sense of calling in the world, by providing them with an ecumenical center and a ministry whereby they will be given an opportunity to study and know the Christian faith and the relationship between faith and life; and to do any and all things which may be necessary or incidental thereto.”

Vision - To glorify God by helping all people trust in Jesus Christ at all times.