I have the following story from Rich Earl:
In an effort to combine the power of coaching with a missional/incarnational approach to ministry, a fellow pastor and I have volunteered to provide free coaching services for a local non-profit group in our city. We are only in the second week of this pilot program but we are already sensing that this is something God is blessing. I believe this is fairly new ground and am optimistic that it will open doors to bring transformation in our community.
Most of the clients are in transition and dealing with poverty and unemployment issues; the goal is to bring them from dependence to independence in their lives. Some are from a group working to help young people get their GED, others are from a cash assistance program that provides some training, and others are from an employment placement program. The other pastor and I will each be working with four clients each for four months and then gathering a new group.
We developed a flyer offering Free Life Coaching to those involved in the program. The response was immediate, with over a dozen candidates filling out the packets to apply for eight slots. Interestingly, several staff members at this organization were interested in the coaching and said they would be willing to pay for it.
The prospect of providing coaching for those in transition is very exciting. Although we have been asked not to “proselytize,” we are permitted to answer questions and spiritual issues are on the table. The opportunities to share Jesus have already been well received and there is every reason to believe that will continue.
You can see Rich’s own blog here.
Powerful idea. I like how you’re offering something valuable without an immediate expectation of something in return. I’m sure it will open up tremendous doors for sharing and connecting on a deep level. I’d love to hear more as you progress in this endeavor.
This is a great idea and we may add this approach to our own work with a rooming house in our city. In January we will be teaching a Logan Leadership course to some who struggle with addictions in that community.
Darren, this effort grew out of my love for coaching and the need to connect with individuals in our community. The folks at the non-profit were so excited to be able to offer something substantial like this at no cost to them.
We are seeing these folks grow in confidence, hope and they have begun to realize that they need to be rooted in all areas of their lives, including the spiritual. Some are already returning to their denominational roots to reexamine Jesus and His importance in their lives.