Church training program

Elder training needs to involve instruction and practicums in the practical hands-on work. Universities have long recognized the value of work-study programs where students intersperse academic study with practical hands-on job training.

The time invested in both of these for potential elders will pay off in the long run. Potential elders, likewise, need to develop experience in basic shepherding skills, like visiting the sick and encouraging the downtrodden. They need opportunities to be part of baptisms, funerals and marriage ceremonies. They need to develop skills in small group leading. First, each potential elder should be assigned to an experienced spiritual leader, who will help him set out a plan and monitor his progress.

The mentor will not provide all the on-the-job training, but will make sure the best ministry mentors are employed for the various aspects of the rotation. We recommend the rotations address the six main effectiveness areas outlined on our Biblical Eldership website see Effectiveness menu. We have also prepared a worksheet to help you develop a customized plan for each participant.

Obviously, this is simply a template for you to use and modify as needed. Click here for the worksheet. The potential elder and the mentor should meet to discuss the plan. For a variety of reasons, you may wish to emphasize some areas more than others, but there should be at least some exposure to all areas. For each area the mentor should guide the potential elder in selecting 2 or 3 specific tasks to work on.

The specifics, such as supervision, observation and accountability need to be agreed upon at the beginning. But, here are some examples:.

Caring effectiveness area. Multiple visits would be recommended. During this time, the two should interact on the material read and also debrief after each visit.

Leading effectiveness area. The potential elder should be given an opportunity to lead a small group discussion. Again, he should read the material online dealing with small group leading. Obviously some men will already have experience and be competent in some areas. The idea is to stretch them into new areas of ministry, to better improve their abilities for functioning as an elder.

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