Boundary Issues and Accountability

Since this is a public ministry of the congregation there are a few ground rules which should be explicit from the beginning.

In general, you should conduct your meetings with your partner at a place and time of mutual convenience. But if your partner is of the opposite sex, then meetings should be conducted either in a public place or in a home with other people present. No meeting should take place in any setting which could put the motivation of either party in question. The purpose of these mentoring pairs should always be front and center: to bring two people together to grow in their spiritual lives and their walk with Jesus.

The meetings should be conducted in an atmosphere of confidentiality. This program attempts to create space for truthful conversation and consolation between companions on their spiritual journey to follow Jesus. It is important that this space is safe space and the conversation protected in confidence. Specific content is not to be shared with anyone else. If you have a real concern about a hurt or need which has been discovered, it should be brought, in a general way, to the pastor.

Either the pastor, or someone from the Mentoring Task Force will be assigned as a liaison with your pair.

The duties of the liaison include:

• Help you develop a "Mentoring Covenant"
   
• Arrange for training
   
• Keep in touch during the duration of your mentoring sessions
   
• Evaluate the process with you and record issues for further study
   
• Remember you in personal and corporate prayer.

This liaison is a resource for you. Feel free to call on your liaison for any questions, concerns or resources.

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Written by: Stephen P. Bouman

Copyright © by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 8765 W. Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631. 800/638-3522.  Produced by Christian Education of the Division for Congregational Ministries.

Permission is granted for congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to reproduce this resource for local use.