Mentoring Into Vocation

In his book, Mentoring Into Vocation, Dr. Fowler delineates that the role and relationship between a mentor and a mentee is “sacred and transformational.” (p. 12) It does not matter whether a relationship is based off of secularism or otherwise. This relationship and the journey is supposed to be relational and practical in nature. (p.32)
The transformative journey of mentoring does not involve “control” by a mentor. (p. 63) I concur with this perception because the metaphorical understanding of church being a “vessel” is a preliminary requirement of transformation. Since from a theological point of view, death precedes resurrection, the platform and journey of resurrection requires a “molding” work. (p. 63) To experience this travel of molding, a mentor proves his or her role as a a shepherd (p. 54) and prophet, one that is related to the future of a mentee. (p. 62) Dr. Fowler describes this as “future oriented.”(p.62) “Discernment,” “fellowship and companionship” are few of the responsibilities that a shepherd is responsible for. (p. 56) Naming the process of this formative journey also necessitates articulation. (p. 108) The pillar of “joint” takes place to renew the church (p. 108) which I perceive as working toward resurrection. If the mentee receives …show more content…
In contrast, I would argue that the role of a pastor does include some sort of parenthood. The role of a pastor as a mentor to his or her mentees is parallel to the Biblical metaphor of a shepherd to his or her sheep. While discussing the role of a pastor in the class, I argued that the relationship between a pastor and his or her people is that like a shepherd’s relationship to his or her sheep. Figurative shepherds are to listen, pray, guide, sacrifice, counsel, forgive, appreciate, welcome and empathize” with his or her sheep. In general, parents fulfill these responsibilities toward their