Phase Three: Step-by-Step Process

1. Decide whether your ministry is able to support a shepherding apprenticeship to accomplish the goals, or whether your ministry would be best to direct a man to an effective apprenticeship. Continue to support and encourage him through the process. 

2. Establish a shepherding apprenticeship that will develop the whole person.  

3. Have clear expectations and policies of the apprenticeship. Understand and seek to meet the minimums necessary to accomplish effective mentoring. 

4. Be prepared to take on the financial investment into the life of a future pastor. 

5. Establish a relationship with a man who is willing to take the significant steps necessary to be involved in a shepherding apprenticeship. Whether it is someone who you have worked with through previous phases, or it is someone who you are connected with through other means.  

6. Pour your life into the mentoring relationship, helping him grow. 

7. Be prepared for hard discussions if someone is not gifted or qualified for pastoral ministry. Help him know where he will be most effective for the cause of Christ. 

8. Give regular evaluation that is both corrective and encouraging with clear help to grow in areas of deficiency.  

9. When prepared and qualified, walk through the ordination process sending him forth into the gospel ministry.