Professional Dissertations DMin

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry

College

Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary

Program

Doctor of Ministry DMin

First Advisor

Fitzroy Maitland

Second Advisor

Nate Elias

Third Advisor

Joseph Kidder

Abstract

Problem

The Guelph Seventh-day Adventist Church faced challenges characterized by low spiritual vitality and a generational divide. These factors jeopardized the spiritual well-being of some members, leading to a decline in church engagement.

Method

Recognizing the urgency of revitalization, the study explored the impact of a seven-week intergenerational mentorship model on participants’ spiritual health and church involvement. Employing a Participatory Action Research approach led by the pastor-researcher in collaboration with the church board, the study utilized Lifeway’s Spiritual Growth Assessment and Growing Together: Taking Mentoring Beyond Small Talk and Prayer Requests by Melissa Kruger (2020) to guide the development and implementation of the transformative mentorship model. Temporal constraints, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic (Barna Group 2020), necessitated the use of virtual platforms to ensure participation despite geographical limitations. The methodology drew insights from a review of theological and relevant scholarly works, providing a solid foundation for implementing the intergenerational mentorship model.

Result

The post-assessment findings have unveiled tangible progress in nurturing godly relationships, which has led to a positive shift in participants’ spiritual growth. The intergenerational mentorship initiative appears to effectively address the identified challenges by bridging the generational gap and fostering a renewed commitment to member involvement and revitalized spiritual vitality among participants.

Conclusion

The successful implementation of the intergenerational mentorship model at the Guelph Seventh-day Adventist Church appeared effective in revitalizing spirituality and enhancing member engagement. This achievement can be attributed to several key factors, including the intentional focus on fostering authentic relationships across generations, the structured framework provided by the mentorship model, and the active participation and collaboration of Church Board members. By emphasizing the importance of mentorship in nurturing spiritual growth and fostering a sense of belonging within the church community, the project created a supportive environment conducive to member involvement and revitalization.

Subject Area

Guelph Seventh-day Adventist Church (Ontario, Canada); Mentoring in church work--Canada--Ontario; Intergenerational relations--Religious aspects--Seventh-day Adventists; Spiritual formation

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