What does an Encourager Coach do as a part of the Celebrate Recovery T.E.A.M?

As Ken and I visited with many of you at the Summit, we encountered several individuals that were still unclear about the role of the Encourager Coach. The first part of our weekly series will attempt to make this role and its responsibilities clearer for you to assist you in finding and placing the appropriate individuals as "E" coaches on your TEAM.

There are three important points to cover this week. First, why do we have both a male and female in this role? The other positions on the T.E.A.M. do not specify this dual role in their job descriptions. Having a male and female share this position is essential because of the need for men to work with men and women with women. An encouraging role can get “close up and personal”, We don’t want any problems in any ministry because a male shares personal information with a female inappropriately or vice versa. Having the dual roles helps to eliminate the propensity of a cross-gender relationship that is too close and personal and any potential problems.

Second, what are the duties of the Encourager Coaches? The Encourager Coaches PROVIDE AND OVERSEE THE SHEPHERDING CARE NEEDS OF THE GROUPS AND MINISTRY LEADERS. In other words, the Encourager Coaches are to minister to the leaders.They oversee leadership care. This can include volunteers. Group leaders give to the participants and are their primary source of leadership. The "E" Coaches encourage and support those same leaders. Leaders can become discouraged with group issues or even go through difficult personal stresses related to family, job or relationships. The success of the CR ministry depends in part on the continued commitment and efforts of the leaders. Just as the Pastor of a Church needs to minister to his own support staff, the "E" Coach prays and encourages those leaders who do the work of the ministry. Yes, there will be times when encouragement will be needed by other individuals or groups, but the primary focus of the "E" coach is other leaders. Having that necessary encouragement available will help keep the CR ministry healthy.

Thirdly, the “E” coaches CREATE FELLOWSHIP EVENTS FOR THE LEADERS AND GROUPS. Sometimes the best fellowship occurs when the leaders “get together” and enjoy each others company. Our ministry certainly enjoys those special times. Leaders can just be themselves and laugh and share together. The “E”s also plan events and fellowship for the participants and leaders. You know from the Seven Keys that there are several opportunities for “get togethers” in the Celebrate Recovery Ministry. Social times provide a wonderful backdrop for building relationships and finding accountability partners and sponsors!

In the weeks and months to come, Ken and I will offer some suggestions and ideas for fellowship events. We would love to hear from you regarding any events that have been successful in your ministry. We will definitely share some of these events you share with us.

Next week, Ken will continue to talk about the Encourager Coach role!

Comments

[Shannon M.]

My wife(Jan) & I have been members of Green Acres Baptist Church(GABC) CR in Tyler, TX for over 3 years. We have agreed to share in "E" Coach responsibilities by planning/coordinating fellowships for leaders/leaders & volunteers. We have approx. 35 leaders & volunteers. Can you help us with some ideas on what fellowship events have worked well for you & your CR ministry? Any help would be much appreciated!! Thanks in advance! Shannon Murphey