Mentoring Guidelines
The Lay School of Ministry was established to prepare theologically
articulate lay persons for ministry in daily life. This process of
preparation intends to draw upon the resources and the partnership
existing between synod, congregation, and the Lay School of Ministry.
A key component is the relationship between participants in the Lay
School and a pastor who agrees to serve as mentor during the two
years of study.
The role of mentor takes several specific forms:
Leading a "Rite of Beginning" in the congregation as you
prepare for the first session of the Lay School and recognizing you
publicly as you participate in the two-year course of study.
Making books, periodicals and journals available for your study from
the pastor's personal library. You will not need to own some materials
which you will study. You are encouraged to borrow them from your
mentoring pastor.
Agreeing to meet with you regularly (at least once per month) while
you are participating in the Lay School of Ministry. You will have
the opportunity to discuss the material you are studying each month,
course readings, your own sense of call, etc.
Engaging you regularly in conversation about specific forms which
your ministry may take in your congregation and community.
Giving you the opportunity to assist with leadership in worship,
teaching, visitation, or preaching as you desire and are prepared
in each of these areas.
The intention is that your mentoring pastor should be the pastor
of the congregation of which you are a member. If for any reason
your own pastor cannot serve in this role, you may seek a neighboring
pastor who will serve as your mentor. Participation in the Lay School
of Ministry will require that your application be signed by a pastor
who has agreed to serve as your mentor.
Your relationship with a mentor will be a key component of your
participation in the Lay School of Ministry. The intention is to
compliment your personal study and classroom presentations. It offers
the opportunity to integrate knowledge and experience, faith and
practice. Please give prayerful consideration to this mentoring relationship
as a central piece of your participation in the Lay School of Ministry
during the next two years.
Mentors are invited to sit in on the Lay School in action in October.
The mentors are welcome to sit in on a class between 7:00-9:00 p.m.
At 9:00 p.m. they can participate in a mentors' conversation with
Pastor Phil Ruge-Jones.
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