We’re so excited you’ve made the decision to start a Mentoring Group. During His time on earth, Jesus showed us how important these relationships are—He made guiding others and sharing His wisdom a priority. You now have the awesome opportunity to follow in His footsteps! Below, you’ll find best practices and resources created for you, to help you take your next steps.

Best Practices

While every Mentoring Group will look different, there are a few important things to keep in mind as your group takes shape:

• • Being a mentor is different from being a professional counselor. A mentor passes experience and knowledge on to a mentee to help them grow. A counselor is a licensed professional who helps people with physical, emotional, or mental health issues improve their sense of well-being. Don’t feel pressured to counsel someone if they’re looking for that kind of help—instead, encourage them to connect with a professional counselor.
  • Mentors and mentees should be the same gender, when possible, and should always meet in appropriate locations. Be sure to ask your mentee what they’re most comfortable with and consider inviting a third person if needed. Ensuring your Mentoring Group remains above reproach will protect everyone involved.
  • Mentees must be over the age of 18. Again, this precaution acts as a safeguard for both mentors and mentees.
  • Stay in contact with your Community Pastor and LifeGroups Coach. As you keep them up to date with how things are going, they’ll be able to help your group get established and navigate any issues you face. Remember to use discernment when sharing any personal details your mentee has shared with you.

Mentoring Resources

Check out the following resources to learn more about mentoring:

• • Your Mentoring Plan: This guide will help you think through the vision for your Mentoring Group and put a plan in motion to start strong. www.go2.lc/mentorplan 
  • Conversations E-Book: This free e-book gives you a practical framework for turning your everyday discussions into opportunities for change. www.go2.lc/conversations 
  • Conversations Bible Plan: Learn more about leading conversations that make an impact by reading this six-day Bible Plan. www.go2.lc/conversationsplan 
  • Finds.Life.Church: Find posts about what Christian mentoring is all about, why mentoring relationships matter, and more.
    • A Beginner’s Guide to Christian Mentoring: finds.life.church/christian-mentoring 
    • Mentoring Relationships: finds.life.church/mentoring-relationships