Australia’s leading exponent in the area of Christian mentoring, John Mallison, and I had an email exchange on the various aspects of these relationships.

How many of these dimensions do you have/lack?

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God helps us through others:

1. Father, especially in the area of self-esteem

2. Mother, nurturing

3. Spiritual Director, ‘discernment of spirits’

4. Prayer partner, prayerful support

5. Mate/spouse/siblings, intimacy, ‘sharing’

6. Friend, support in life’s trials and recreation

7. Mentor, skill-development

8. Supervisor, accountability

9. Counsellor, behaviour

10. Encourager, emotional strength for the journey

11. Role-model, life-skills

12. Small Group, mutual prayer, brain-storming, reality-checking

13. Ministry Team, vocational support

14. Coach, specific skill-development

15. Sponsor, opening opportunities for ministry

16. Teacher/Master, development of understandings

17. Consultant, advice from someone with a wider perspective

18. Bishop/Board, authority

19. Pastor, soul-nourishment

20. Faith community, a sense of belonging

Rowland Croucher May 2002