Commuter Shepherds
The Commuter Shepherd ministry at Liberty University is a joint venture between the LU Shepherd Office and the Office of Commuter Student Life. The role provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with their peers throughout the Lynchburg community in cultivating their spiritual growth and development. Commuter Shepherds serve as spiritual leaders who help build community and equip students to practically live out their faith in a real-world context. These student leaders are offered distinctive mentorship, training, and coaching to both guide them in their roles as spiritual leaders, as well as support them in their own personal journey with Christ.
Each Commuter Shepherd works alongside a partner to oversee a Community Group. Together they strive to build deep relationships with their fellow students creating a healthy community. Because students in this leadership position pursue various degree programs while at Liberty, Commuter Shepherd ministry specifically allows students to see their role in the Great Commission through their relationships, their vocation, and their passions, no matter their future pursuits.
Become a Commuter Shepherd
To become a Commuter Shepherd you must be able to meet or exceed the following expectations in order to apply.
Leadership Expectations
- Mature and growing disciple of Jesus, well-grounded in Scripture
- Solid reputation, living a life above reproach
- Able to articulate and communicate the gospel effectively
- Active member of the local church, and/or under the watch-care of a local church in the Lynchburg area
- Knowledgeable about the mission and purpose of the church
- Genuine love for people with demonstrated relational skills
- Ability to both challenge and encourage others in their walk with the Lord
- Humble demeanor and teachable spirit
- Consistent and reliable
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Committed to the purpose of the Commuter Shepherd Ministry reflecting the vision, values, and mission of The Office of Spiritual Development and LU Shepherd
- Previous student leadership experience
- Academic and Conduct Standards
- Must be enrolled as a residential commuter student Liberty during the application process
- Sets the standard as a leader in the area of academics. This includes setting an example in study habits, homework, class attendance and a positive attitude toward professors and classes
- Maintain a cumulative 2.5 GPA or above each semester
- Cannot obtain more than 12 Liberty Way points during any given semester. Past discipline records may be considered during the application as well
Availability to Carry Out Responsibilities
- Attend training at the beginning of each semester
- Attend Leader Connect Groups once a week (several time options are available)
- Lead a Commuter Community Group each week at a time that works best for your schedule
- Communicate with your group members weekly
- Recruit new members
- Pray for your group member’s requests on a weekly basis
- Commit to being a resource to your group members, helping direct them to the appropriate people on campus – i.e. if they are having surgery, contact the LU Shepherd Office
- Connect with an assigned staff support person on a bi-weekly basis.
2024-2025 Commuter Shepherd Selection Process
March 1, 2024 Application Deadline (midnight)
March 18-22, 2024 Interviews
April 3, 2023 Contract Signing and Pairings
This role is a scholarship position. Students serving satisfactorily will additionally receive enough hours to satisfy their CSER requirements each semester.