Our Process

Since we are one organization with regional networks, some regions offer different levels of engagement with coaching, content, and scheduling.  Every region offers monthly training, assignments, and preparation in Gospel theology, practical ministry skills, and character formation.  The Southeast offers a robust process for vetting and training lay leaders and potential elders:

1. Initial Assessment*

The participant goes through an initial exam to assess theological competency, practical ministry experience, and identify heart character areas of growth.  From this assessment, a personal development plan (PDP) will be created to help identify one fruit of the spirit to work on for each trimester.

2. Monthly Training + Assignments

Each cohort meets once a month (for three months in a row) to learn, pray, and grow together.  The meeting outline for a 18 months (after the intro session) is:

Trimester 1: Old Testament Survey

Trimester 2: New Testament Survey

Trimester 3: Christology, Pneumatology, Missio Dei

Trimester 4: God the Father, Anthropology/Hamartiology, Soteriology

Trimester 5: Worship, Ecclesiology, Eschatology

Monthly preparation assignments (reading, exegetical worksheets, personal development plan, and praxis competencies) are given and expected to be completed prior to each session.  

3. Coaching + Discipleship*

Each trimester there is an individual coaching session with the participant and/or pastor.  This is a time to check-in, follow-up on the participants PDP, and coach them through elder exam preparation.

4. Elder Assessment + Future Leaders Exam*

Once the participant completes all three trimesters and the cohort is ended, the lead pastor of each participating church is given access to the full elder exam and all content to review, train, and reference for assessing the participants who have specifically been training for eldership.

*Optional for church elder team development