Apprenticing a New Lifegroup Leader

Selection Process

  1. Prayer Foundation Begin with consistent prayer for your group members. As you pray regularly, you'll develop deep knowledge of their strengths, weaknesses, and potential.

  2. Section Leader Input: Involve your section leader in the decision-making process. Their outside perspective and experience can provide valuable insight.

  3. Gradual Testing Start delegating small responsibilities to observe:

    • How they handle basic tasks

    • Their attitude toward serving

    • Their reliability and follow-through

  4. Direct Conversation Once you've identified a potential intern:

    • Make a formal appointment to discuss the opportunity

    • Give them a copy of leadership standards to review

    • Ask them to pray about the commitment before deciding

    • Allow time for questions and clarification

Apprenticing A New Lifegroup Leader Training Schedule

8-week progressive development system

Weeks 1-3: Foundation Building Focus: Learning through observation and small tasks

  • Week 1: Shadow leader, handle announcements

  • Week 2: Add visitor follow up and refreshments

  • Week 3: Lead ice-breaker, begin administrative tasks

Training Activities:

  • Observe every aspect of meeting preparation

  • Discuss reasons behind each leadership decision

  • Practice basic facilitating skills in safe environment

  • Begin personal ministry connections with group members

Weeks 4-5: Skill Development Focus: Practicing core leadership functions

  • Week 4: Lead vision casting, facilitate prayer time

  • Week 5: Guide discussion, minister to specific needs

Training Activities:

  • Plan meeting segments with leader guidance

  • Debrief each experience with detailed feedback

  • Work through challenges and problem-solving

  • Develop personal leadership style

Weeks 6-8: Independent Leadership Focus: Taking full responsibility

  • Week 6: Plan complete meeting with delegation

  • Week 7: Lead entire meeting independently

  • Week 8: Run group with minimal oversight

Training Activities:

  • Demonstrate full meeting leadership

  • Handle unexpected situations independently

  • Prepare for group multiplication

  • Begin identifying and developing next intern

"Watch, Explain, Do, Coach" Model

This proven discipleship model ensures thorough leadership development:

Phase 1: WATCH

Intern observes leader in action

  • Attend all leadership preparation activities

  • Watch how leader handles various situations

  • Observe interaction styles and decision-making

  • Note both successes and challenges

Leader Actions:

  • Model excellent leadership consistently

  • Include intern in all aspects of ministry

  • Think out loud about decisions and reasoning

  • Create learning opportunities through exposure

Phase 2: EXPLAIN

Leader explains the 'why' behind actions

  • Discuss reasons for specific approaches

  • Share the thinking behind each decision

  • Explain vision and values that guide choices

  • Connect actions to biblical principles

Key Questions to Address:

  • Why did you handle that situation that way?

  • What were you thinking when...?

  • How did you decide to...?

  • What would you do differently next time?

Phase 3: DO

Intern attempts the same tasks with guidance

  • Start with low-risk opportunities

  • Provide coaching during the activity

  • Allow natural learning through experience

  • Offer immediate encouragement and support

Leader's Role:

  • Stay close enough to help if needed

  • Resist the urge to take over

  • Focus on effort and growth, not perfection

  • Celebrate progress and learning

Phase 4: COACH

Leader provides feedback and ongoing development

  • Give objective assessment of strengths and areas for growth

  • Provide specific, practical suggestions for improvement

  • Continue relationship as mentor and resource

  • Monitor as intern develops others

Feedback Guidelines:

  • Be specific rather than general

  • Balance encouragement with areas for growth

  • Focus on behavior, not personality

  • Give suggestions, not just criticism