Why Pastoral Apprenticeship?
The pastoral apprenticeship ministry exists to help prepare men for gospel ministry through personal discipleship, academic mentoring, and coaching in a wide range of pastoral ministry. The rationale for such a ministry comes from a theological conviction that traditional seminary alone does an inadequate job preparing men for ministry and the belief that there is value in being involved in ministry while pursuing one’s academic preparation.
Modern technology affords us new opportunities to pursue academic preparation at a distance. However, distance education alone is inadequate outside the context of the local church. We believe that the best way to prepare men for ministry is in a mentoring relationship with local pastors and session. This approach demonstrates to them a fuller, more biblical vision for the work of the ministry.
Personal Discipleship Focuses on the following:
- Stewardship of time and resources
- Growth in personal disciplines
- Regular interaction with a mentor
- Valuing God’s Word in personal life
- Marriage mentoring
- Family affairs
- Interpersonal skills and public interaction
- Growth in personal evangelism
- Growth in the discipline of prayer
Academic Mentoring Focuses on the following:
- Partnership with an approved college/seminary
- Proctoring exams
- Reading and reviewing papers, essays, and other coursework
- Planning curriculum, and establishing course goals and due dates
- Learning how to study and write well
- Thinking on a wide range of theological, historical and cultural issues
- Financial aid in cases of need
Coaching for Ministry Focuses on the following:
- Development of teaching skills, including preparation and delivery
- Leadership in ministry endeavors
- Providing opportunities for preaching in worship service
- Involvement in session meetings
- Participation in public worship