Shepherding Team Leader

Who is he?
The Shepherding Team Leader is a ruling elder who oversees a team of under-shepherds (small group leaders, lay shepherds, Men’s Ministry or Women’s Ministry leaders, etc.) and provides accountability to ensure every member of the church is known and cared for. He maintains personal relationships with his under-shepherds and steps in when an elder is required to address situations within his under-shepherds’ flocks.

What does he do?

1. Know the sheep – Builds relationships with his under-shepherds and stays aware of their lives and needs.
2. Feed the sheep – Encourages spiritual growth through regular prayer, conducting effective breakout meetings, and training his under-shepherds.
3. Lead the sheep – Models Christlike shepherding, provides wisdom and direction to his under-shepherds, and equips the flock to faithfully follow Christ.
4. Protect the sheep – Guards against sin, false teaching, and straying.

He also coordinates communication, goes on visits, tracks care efforts, and keeps the other elders informed of needs in his area.

Why does he do it?

• Because God calls elders to “shepherd the flock of God” (1 Peter 5:2).
• Because God calls elders to equip the saints to build up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4).
• Because the elder loves the people entrusted to him and must give a personal account to Christ (Hebrews 13:17).
• Because the team model allows personal care in a larger church where one person cannot do it alone.

How does he do it?

• He contacts his under-shepherds at least quarterly to oversee their physical, personal, and spiritual needs. Contacts can be phone calls, videos calls, emails, face-to-face visits, or small group visits.
• He stays connected with his under-shepherds when they are facing challenges and visits his flock in the hospital or crises when necessary.
• He prays weekly for his flock, dependent on the Holy Spirit.
• He coordinates help and resources for his flock from within the church community.
• He offers biblical guidance, accountability, and restoration when needed and helps his under-shepherds coordinate teachings.

Click the button below to log in, then go to "My Groups" and find the group called "[Elder]'s Shepherding Team."

We are His people, the sheep of His pasture.
– Psalm 100:3