Shepherd Program
“I am the good shepherd…
I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice.” John 10:11-18
Shepherding is a style of discipleship that offers and provides care to God’s people. Many of us can give the gift of our experience, strength, and hope to those in transition. We can be/are a powerful tool to help our transitional housing participant to discover how to unlock and achieve his potential—to live a life of stability, free of drugs and alcohol abuse and to become self-sufficient.
Each resident of our Recovery House is offered an opportunity to be partnered with a shepherd selected from our faith community to provide spiritual mentoring and guidance. The shepherds will be informed to understand and prepare for their role and responsibilities. Then, throughout the relationship, ongoing support will be given from Centenary/CCMI staff. This support should clarify all expectations and answer any/all questions and concerns.
As the shepherd and participant’s relationship evolves, there will be many life-changing experiences that will bless both the shepherd and the resident.
Interested? Read more about the responsibilities of shepherds
A shepherd’s role is to help the Recovery House residents to achieve their potential and discover the success of a transformed life through God’s grace. A shepherd doesn’t make decisions for the participant. Instead, they listen, encourage and guide residents to find positive solutions to issues. Some examples of shepherd actions include the following:
Provide affirmation in their sobriety.
Listen to spiritual questions and concerns. Be a spiritual discussion partner around potential problems, situations, etc.
Empower participants to explore creative outlets (ie writing, art, singing, etc.)
Connect to spiritual resources as requested