Pastors/Mentors
The selection of appropriate pastor(s)/mentor(s) is critical to the success of the internship process. The term “pastor/mentor”
refers to that person overseeing the student’s entire internship. Often the pastor/mentor is the senior pastor. The pastor/mentor
must be approved by the NNEDSOM Director and District Superintendent. The pastor/mentor must be one who is fully cooperative
and supportive of the ministries and policies of the District. The pastor/mentor may want to include another minister who has
outstanding qualifications to give the intern the “best practice” experience in a given area.
Qualifications
An appropriate and qualified mentor must be…
Ordained or credentialed one level above the credential
the student is seeking (exception of course for ordination).
Not be a relative of the student.
Willing to follow the policies and guidelines of the DSOM
internship process.
Have demonstrated a proven ministry of cooperation and
integrity.
Have a minimum of five (5) years of pastoral experience.
Willing to invest significant time in the intern and
internship process.
Refuse to serve as a mentor in those areas in which they
lack the expertise or their involvement is not in the best
interest of the student.
Refer students to others who have greater expertise in
areas when it is in the best interest of the student.
Willing to complete and submit the required DSOM Pastor/
Mentor’s Summary & Evaluation Reports and completed
Student Summary Report and student’s Prayer Journal to
the DSOM Director at the end of the three (3) month
period.
Be approved by the DSOM Director and District
Superintendent.
Willing to communicate concerns regarding the intern or
the internship process with DSOM Director.
Selecting a Pastor/Mentor
Students are to select an “appropriate and qualified” pastor/mentor who meets the standards outlined above. In addition the
student is encouraged to:
Seek a pastor/mentor who exemplifies “best practice” in
ministry.
Recognize that more than one pastor/mentor may be
needed.
End the relationship if the pastor/mentor is unwilling or
unable to commit the time needed, comply with DSOM
standards or fails to carry out other responsibilities
Recognize that their pastor may not be the best pastor/
mentor in all areas and seek their recommendation
for someone who can better serve.
Develop a positive working relationship with their DSOM
and pastors/mentors based on mutual respect and
passion for ministry.