The normal expectation is that training will consist of around 10 evening sessions plus an initial residential 24 hour session. It is possible to complete the training within a twelve months although this is, of course, dependent on people's diaries. Two experienced trainers are allocated to the SMT wherever possible although sometimes there is just the one, and these trainers will also function as facilitators to the Team after commissioning to help the Team get into its stride.
Training begins with a Friday - Saturday residential which always helps a new group to begin to work, share and worship together. This residential will explore the principles of shared ministry, hopes, fears and expectations for new team members, some exercises that will explore how the group works together and plenty of laughter as the group begins to form as a team. And it is important to note that within the overall structure of the training there will always be flexibility and adaptation to local needs and concerns.
Over the next twelve months the Team will explore and share their personal journeys of faith and their experience and understanding of core aspects of Christian belief. They will explore something of the history of their own church and how it relates to their ministry today and the team will reflect on the community they serve and the mission and vision of their church.
The goal of the training is to equip a group of people who have been chosen to lead, encourage and enable others to minister together in the local church and community. Shared Ministry training:
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is a shared journey in which the team learns together
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reflects on life, experience, the Bible and many perspectives from the church and the whole of life
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is practical and and aimed at helping the Team to work together and with others
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is all about team members learning to give of themselves and being open to change
