Initial Visit

Initial Visit

During the initial orientation visit, our aim will be to build a Godly, purposeful Shepherding relationship. The following are recommended guidelines: (focus, timeline, costs):

FOCUS:

Shepherding for pastor/director and staff

1.    getting acquainted: family and ministry call

2.    ministry background: educational and ministry experiences

3.    joys - disappointments – dreams (individual and corporate)

1st Leadership Session (pastor, board and staff)

1.    getting acquainted

2.    church’s/ministry’s background and history

3.    joys – disappointments – dreams

4.    discussing possible ‘elephants in the room’

2nd Leadership Session (pastor/director, board, and staff)

1.    introduction to Shepherding – a mentor model of ministry

2.    facing reality: past – present – future

3.    clarifying your core values and mission: strategic planning

4.    sharpening your vision: accountable for measurable goals

Follow-up Assessment

1.    review and evaluate initial event (Shepherding Considerations will be sent to pastor/director and governing board asap following the event)

TIMELINE:

·      3-day event – Friday / Saturday / Sunday preferable   *additional time can be added

·      2-day event – Friday / Saturday (*for para-church ministries)

·      Friday: pastor/director and/or staff

·      Friday evening dinner with pastor/director and spouse

·      Saturday Session(s): 9am to Noon / 1 to 3 p.m. *times can be adjusted

·      Sunday Worship / Adult Class: Theme – “Why We Do, What We Do” *churches only

COSTS: 

·      Travel expense (mileage and lodging)

·      Dinner meal with pastor/director and spouse

·      One free will love offering for Shepherding the Shepherds (*received the following week)