Mission

We are a group of God-hungry Jesus-followers that live for Jesus as leaders of a city within the city of Seattle; seeking to know culture, love people and see lives transformed to live for Jesus.

Purpose

The purpose of the Discipleship Training Program is to identify, develop and train called and biblically qualified followers of Jesus to lead the mission of our “city” within the city. These are leaders who are committed to living for Jesus and specifically called, either now or in the future, to leadership at Mars Hill Church West Seattle (or beyond) in roles such as deacon, ministry director, CG coach, pastor or future planter (church or campus). These are leaders who are committed to walking in community together in order to be prepared, equipped and propelled to fulfill God’s calling on their lives. Our desire is to see lives changed by Jesus, the church equipped, and the Kingdom take root in West Seattle. Our time together will include study of God’s word, leadership training, accountability, encouragement, prayer and sharpening.

Goals

• Grow closer to Jesus
• Gain clarity of personal calling
• Sharpen, grow and prove leadership abilities and giftedness within area of service
• Develop a personal discipleship plan for life and ministry
• Learn to share authentically, identify idols and replace with gospel worship
• Experience steady-state community as part of a MHCWS community group
• Develop, enhance and deepen ability to handle the Word of God
• Grow in theological and missiological understanding thru DTP equipping materials
• Spend a year intentionally walking with other brothers (DTP candidates and sponsor)

Outline

• August 2009 thru July 2010 w/ regular progress evaluation (flexibility offered case-by-case)
• Weekly DTP cohort meetings (likely, Sunday afternoons)
• Weekly one-on-one meetings with Deacon sponsor
• 15 – 20 hours of weekly service in your area of ministry (includes every Sunday)

Components

• Work: Full or part-time work will serve as primary mission, engagement & personal provision.
• Service: Each DTP candidate will select a specific area of ministry (CM, Youth, Fac, Admin, etc).
• Equipping: Study will be expected of each candidate. Content will vary depending on candidate.
• Missional Community: DTP candidates will be involved in a MHCWS community group.
• DTP cohort: All DTP candidates will meet together 3 times/month for study, prayer, discussion.

FAQ’s

Q: Who is eligible for participation in the DTP?
A: The target demographic of the DTP is young men, including:

• Single men (local and out of state/country)
• Married men (local and out of state/country)

Q: How do I apply for the DTP?
A: ‘Step 1’ is to fill this form. You will be contacted for ‘Step 2’.

Q: How long is the DTP process?
A: This is a one year program.

Q: Where would I live or work for the duration of my participation in the DTP if I am from out of town?
A: The DTP is an open invitation for men to answer the call to follow Jesus by moving to Seattle, finding work and a place to live. There are several free room opportunities in West Seattle, but space is limited. We will do our best to find you a place to live with a host family if you are interested.

Q: Does participating in the DTP improve my chances of coming on staff at Mars Hill Church?
A: Participation in this program in no way guarantees a future paid position. However, when it comes to paid positions those candidates who are well known and have proven themselves (work and character) are the top candidates.

Q: Why would I participate in the DTP process?
A: If you love Jesus, want to serve in a city, grow in spiritual leadership, are onboard with the MHC mission statement, and are committed to clarifying your calling, this is something to consider.

Q: Is the DTP a good fit if I feel called to eventually plant a church/campus?
A: Yes. In fact Mars Hill West Seattle has a goal of planting two churches or campuses a year and are actively seeking out men, called by God, to plant new gospel works around the world.

Q: Is the DTP a good fit if I’m participating in the Resurgence Center for Missional Leadership?
A: Yes. The equipping component of the DTP would be substituted for studies that take place at the Center.

Q: Who are the MHCWS leaders that are participating?
A: Participating pastors include: Adam Sinnett (campus pastor), Cliff Low (community groups), Bill Simmonds (marriage and family), Tim Beltz (parenting), Bill Clem (biblical living), James Noriega (biblical counseling).

Participating deacons include: Erik Henrikson (Campus Exec), Tim Van Liew (Campus Ops, Events, Office), David Parker (Productions & Communications), Alan Andersen (Biblical Families: Children’s Ministry, Youth)

Q: What would a standard week look like?
A: You can expect to be serving all day Sunday (which will likely include your weekly DTP cohort meeting) and out at least two nights of the week (one for community group and another for serving in some capacity). Your exact hours will depend on your work schedule and area of service.

Your week will roughly break down like this: