Shepherd’s Apprentice
What is Shepherd’s Apprentice?
Shepherd’s Apprentice is a spiritual formation journey designed specifically for those who shepherd cross-cultural workers. It is an invitation to deepen your own life as a “sheep” while enriching your ministry as a “shepherd.”
Rather than a traditional skill-based training, this is a journey taken over time within a supportive community of practice. It could be described as an applied theology of shepherding.
Why the Shepherd’s Apprentice Journey?
In the world of global ministry, workers often need a safe, neutral space for care outside of their own organization. Our goal is to develop regional communities of shepherds who can meet this vital need.
While many organizations and churches focus on skills and efficiency, the deeply relational aspect of care can sometimes be lost. Shepherd’s Apprentice helps care providers embrace a relational approach to ministry, rooted firmly in a biblical understanding of the Trinity.
What to Expect
This journey is intentionally communal and paced for reflection. When you join a cohort, you can expect:
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A Shared Experience: You will walk alongside a cohort of 6 to 16 peers.
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Immersive Workshops: The journey begins and ends with dedicated workshops to anchor the community.
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Ongoing Support: Between workshops, you will participate in one-on-one mentoring and facilitated group video calls.
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Lasting Community: Participants have the opportunity to continue meeting with their cohort even after the formal program concludes.
Impact from Around the World
We have seen the Shepherd’s Apprentice model flourish both domestically and internationally. Past cohorts include:
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Domestic: Internal Barnabas teams (2021–2026) and mixed-organizational cohorts in Colorado.
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International: Japan, Egypt, Indonesia, and Thailand.
“My perspective has completely changed. I no longer want to be ‘dragged along’ by the demands of life and the needs of others. Now, I have a new perspective: I want to follow my Father and do only what I see Him doing.” — Participant, Egypt
“I had tended to seek more and more skills training to make up for my insecurity… depending on my improved skill as a counselor to give me security. Now I have a renewed security in Jesus, and I can counsel others from a place of wholeness and integrity.” — Participant, Indonesia
“Shepherd’s Apprentice helped me be in a receiving posture instead of just thinking of how to ‘give out.'” — Participant, USA
Start Your Journey
Numerous international and domestic cohorts are currently forming. Whether you are looking to join an existing group or are interested in forming a new cohort for your region or organization, we would love to connect with you.
Ready to begin the journey?