A Three-Step Training Process

This training is not “counseling training” per se, but training that equips our people in how to care for one another with the gospel. The training is led by leaders from every ministry area from each of our four campuses and is open to all leaders and servants so that they can learn and grow in the face-to-face ministry of the word.

We believe the best way for you to learn how to care for others is not by sitting and learning concepts and techniques, but by learning how to live out the gospel in your own life while in community. Once you see how the gospel connects with the issues of life, you will be better equipped to help others to do the same.

The three steps of this training are (1) Gospel Basics, (2) Redemption Groups[1] and (3) Pre-Marital Counseling. Each of the three phases builds upon the foundation of the previous step. Participants receive helpful feedback designed to help them grow in the grace of the gospel during each phase.

An Intentional Process

Training and developing leaders requires a balance of knowledge, experience, and reflection. The campus shepherding training uses a three-prong approach that can be understood by visualizing two parallel rails connected with cross-ties similar to a railroad track.[2]

The first rail represents any input through training that affects our thoughts, emotions, desire/will, and experience. The second rail represents the experience found in life and ministry. The cross-ties represent ongoing reflection, both personal and supervised. Lastly the bedrock on which the railroad track lies represents the developing character and skill of the person being equipped. When any of these rails or cross-ties are missing, or not fully addressed, the equipping process suffers.