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đź“„ Collaborative Reflection and Guidance
The materials provided herein are intended to assist you in supporting the Lay School student in their commitment to the program. Included are the Introduction, Mentoring Guidelines, Statement of Purpose, Schedule of Events, and Rite of Beginning. It is our sincere hope that the forthcoming year will be a meaningful and enriching experience for both mentor and student.
Should you have any questions regarding the Lay School programs, please do not hesitate to contact Pastor Jennifer Hoffman, Synod Lay School Director, at jen.hoffman@ecsw.org or via email at layschool@ecsw.org.
🌱 The Role of a Mentor
The Lay School is dedicated to equipping and challenging adults in their vocation as Disciples of Christ, empowering them for meaningful service and ministry within their congregations and broader communities. This formation process intentionally draws upon the collaborative resources and partnerships shared among the synod, local congregations, and the Lay School of Ministry. A vital element of this journey is the mentoring relationship between the participant and their pastor—or, with the congregational pastor’s approval, a pastor who has graciously agreed to serve as mentor.
🤝 Expectations of the Mentor
The mentoring relationship is an essential element of the Lay School of Ministry experience, fostering deeper reflection and personal growth throughout the course of study. Mentors provide guidance and support as students engage with the curriculum and discern their calling within their congregation and community. Responsibilities typically include:
Committing to regular meetings with the student throughout their participation in the Lay School, providing a consistent opportunity to discuss and reflect on the monthly study materials.
Assisting the student in discerning their direction for service within their congregation and the wider community.
Making relevant books, periodicals, and journals from the pastor’s personal library available as needed to support the student’s study.
Leading a “Rite of Beginning” within the congregation to publicly recognize and bless the student’s commitment to the Lay School. This rite may follow a standard format or be adapted from the minister’s handbook. For a sample message, click HERE.
Acknowledging that it is the student’s responsibility to initiate contact and arrange appointments with their mentor or pastor.
The mentoring relationship serves as a critical forum for integrating knowledge, faith, and practical experience. It is intended to deepen the student’s formation and provide meaningful support throughout their journey. To assist in facilitating productive mentor-student meetings, a worksheet is available as a tool for capturing reflections and planning future conversations. Although this worksheet is not collected, it can enhance the mentoring process.
Participation in the Lay School requires the mentor to sign the student’s enrollment form. Ideally, the student’s parish pastor will serve as mentor; however, if this is not feasible, a neighboring pastor may fulfill the role with the approval of the student’s own pastor.
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