Mentoring, coaching, and cohorts for ministry leaders
HOPE Network develops healthy, Christ-centered leaders through mentoring, coaching, and peer cohorts for ministers, elders, and church staff. Whether you’re new to ministry, going through a hard season, or preparing for what’s next, we pair you with seasoned leaders who have walked similar roads.
No leader is meant to grow alone
Sometimes leaders need a Barnabas for encouragement or a Paul as a pastor-teacher. Sometimes leaders need a David to face a giant or a Samuel to say, “You’re the man!” And sometimes leaders need a Jeremiah, with fire in his bones, or an Isaiah to confront sin.
Leader development at HOPE Network is built on a relationship of trust and growth, coupled with an open and teachable spirit. The goal is always the same: healthy, Christ-centered leadership that serves the church for the long haul.
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” (2 Timothy 2:2, NIV)
Three ways we develop leaders
Mentoring
Experienced ministry leaders share their experience and expertise with those following behind them. Mentoring offers wisdom, perspective, and encouragement drawn from years in the trenches of church life, one-on-one or in a small group.
Coaching
A coach partners with you to draw out what God is already doing and to discern where the Spirit is leading you next. Our coaches are formally trained in StrengthsFinder (CliftonStrengths), Grip-Birkman, the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI), and DiSC.
Cohorts
Small groups of peers meet over several months for guided discussion, prayer, and mutual support, led by an experienced facilitator. Cohorts build lasting friendships with colleagues who understand both the joys and the burdens of ministry.
See the Ministry Leaders Cohort, our 6-month Zoom cohort for ministers in their first decade.
Seasons when a mentor or coach makes the difference
- You are navigating a transition in ministry or leadership
- The church is coming between you and God
- Crisis has become acute in your life, ministry, or family
- You are seeking to grow deeper in ministry
- You are discerning where the Spirit is leading you
- You are early in ministry and want to build a healthy foundation
Relationship first, wherever you are
- It starts with a conversation. We listen first, then help you find the kind of support that fits your season.
- Individuals or groups. Mentoring and coaching can be one-on-one or in a group, depending on the availability of mentors and coaches.
- Flexible ways to connect. We meet in person when possible and use video conferencing when distance and time make that difficult.
- Experienced practitioners. Our mentors and coaches are ministers, elders, and educators who have led churches themselves.
Meet some of our mentors and coaches
Team members who focus on coaching and mentoring include Jim Martin, Jimmy Adcox, Jon Mullican, Chris Goldman, Evertt Huffard, Greg Anderson, Steven Carrizal, Shannon Rains, Brad Cox, Amanda Box, Kaley Ihfe, and Grady King. Meet our full team.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between mentoring and coaching?
In mentoring, an experienced ministry leader shares experience and expertise to help you grow. In coaching, a trained coach asks questions and uses tools such as StrengthsFinder, Grip-Birkman, the IDI, and DiSC to help you discern where the Spirit is leading you and take your next step. Many leaders benefit from both.
Who is the Ministry Leaders Cohort for?
The Ministry Leaders Cohort is for recent graduates, ministers new to their roles, and ministers with up to 10 years of experience who want to build spiritual depth, leadership clarity, and relational wisdom early in their ministry. Learn more about the cohort.
Can mentoring and coaching be done remotely?
Yes. HOPE Network mentors and coaches meet in person when possible and use video conferencing so leaders can take part regardless of location.
Do you mentor elders and church staff, or only ministers?
We mentor and coach ministers, elders, shepherds, and church staff. Contact us to talk about what fits your situation.
I’m a minister looking for a new position. Where do I start?
If you are seeking a new ministry position, we are willing to help you navigate this season with intentional discernment and networking. The Minister Intake Form is the first step, and it is only for those seeking a new position. For mentoring, coaching, or cohort inquiries, please use the contact form.
There is HOPE.
Whether you’re a new minister, a weary leader, or an elder investing in your staff, you don’t have to lead alone.
Or email info@hopenetworkministries.org · call 214-586-0375