Tim Suffield writes here on the importance of training elders. I don’t really have much to add to what he has to say. I agree with him that we should train and equip all elders at a church, whether they are on staff or not. I agree with him that this is not first and foremost about developing a programme/course but rather about developing relationally in the church through an apprenticeship type model.
The only two things I would like to add or build on are as follows:
- We shouldn’t assume that it is only non-staff members who would benefit from such training. Just because someone has been employed as a pastor does not mean they have received formal training and even if they have read theology, this is not necessarily the same as training for ministry.
- Training isn’t something we complete at the start, it is something we should continuously be doing. This is recognised in secular professions but does the church get it.
So, I, like Tim include myself with those who need training and am consistently seeking opportunities to be trained and coached.
I guess, that there is a third thing to add and it is that resources are available out there to support churches that want to train their elders. I would highlight Crosslands as one such resource provider.
And I hope it is okay to mention here that this is exactly one of the reasons why Faithroots exists and where my own priorities lie. So, have a look at the Training Resources here, here and here and please feel free to make full use of them as you see fit.
If you would like to talk more and if you would particularly appreciate some form of in person support or coaching, please use the contact form below.
Faithroots 