Part of Develop Leaders › Coaching & Mentoring
Coaching & mentoring from leaders who have walked this road
Ministry can be lonely work. HOPE Network pairs you with a seasoned minister, elder, or trained coach who will listen, ask good questions, and walk with you through whatever season you are in.
A trusted voice for every season of ministry
Sometimes a leader needs a Barnabas to encourage, a Paul to teach, or a Nathan to speak a hard truth. Our mentors and coaches meet you where you are.
New ministers
Build healthy habits, spiritual depth, and wise relationships in your first years of ministry.
Leaders in transition
Think clearly through a move, a new role, a difficult departure, or what comes next.
Weary or hurting leaders
Find a safe place to process crisis in your life, ministry, or family when the church has come between you and God.
Elders & church staff
Grow as a shepherd or staff member with someone who understands church leadership from the inside.
Mentoring or coaching: which do you need?
Both are built on trust and a teachable spirit. The difference is in who brings the answers. Many leaders benefit from both.
| Mentoring | Coaching | |
|---|---|---|
| The focus | Wisdom and perspective passed from an experienced leader to you | Drawing out what God is already doing in you and discerning your next step |
| Your guide | A minister or elder with years of church leadership | A formally trained coach using proven assessments |
| Conversations sound like | “Here’s what I learned when I faced something similar.” | “What do you sense the Spirit is leading you toward?” |
| Best when | You want counsel, encouragement, and someone who has been there | You want clarity on your strengths, calling, and direction |
How coaching and mentoring work
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Start with a conversation
Reach out by phone, email, or our contact form. We listen to your story and what you are hoping for.
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Get matched
We suggest a mentor or coach whose experience fits your season, your role, and your context.
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Meet in a way that works for you
Meet one-on-one or in a small group, in person when possible or by video call when distance and time make that hard.
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Grow at your own pace
You and your mentor or coach set a rhythm together and keep returning to what matters most for your life and ministry.
Assessments our coaches use
Our coaches are formally trained in these tools. They help you see how God has wired you and how you lead alongside others.
CliftonStrengths
Formerly StrengthsFinder. Names your top natural talents so you can lead from them.
Grip-Birkman
Shows your interests, everyday behavior, underlying needs, and how you respond under stress.
Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI)
Measures how you engage cultural differences, which is a growing need in diverse congregations.
DiSC
Describes your communication and work style so you can build healthier teams.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)
Coaching & mentoring FAQ
How am I matched with a mentor or coach?
It starts with a conversation. We listen to your situation and goals, then suggest a mentor or coach whose experience fits your season, role, and church context.
Can I meet with a mentor or coach remotely?
Yes. Our mentors and coaches meet in person when possible and use video calls so leaders can take part from anywhere.
Is mentoring only for preachers?
No. We mentor and coach ministers, elders, shepherds, and church staff at every stage of ministry.
Can I join a group instead of meeting one-on-one?
Yes. Mentoring and coaching can happen individually or in small groups, depending on mentor availability. Ministers in their first ten years can also join our Ministry Leaders Cohort.
I’m looking for a new ministry position. Is this the right place?
We are glad to help you navigate a move with discernment and networking. Start with the Minister Intake Form, which is only for those seeking a new position. For mentoring or coaching, please use our contact form.
You don’t have to lead alone
Tell us a little about where you are. We’ll help you find the right mentor or coach for this season.