Trinity Lutheran Seminary

Format for a Supervisory Session

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CHECK IN

Take the first few minutes of the session to inform one another of your "state of mind".  Personal issues might be identified that could affect or inform this session.  This normally should be limited to 10 - 15 minutes.  The supervisory session is not a therapy session.  However, this kind of check-in will enable each participant to see the other as a whole human being and to be sensitive to the needs of one another.  A short prayer would be appropriate at this point of the meeting.


TOPIC

The main portion of the session can be:

A.  Didactic

Focused on a particular issue in ministry, i.e., pastoral sensitivity when planning worship or the "how-to" of setting up a parish committee.

B.  Evaluation

Focused on a particular event or incident in the ministry of the parish/agency, i.e., a sermon, pastoral call.  Helpful format for the feedback:

  1. Student states his/her positive feelings, i.e., “What I think worked well…”
  2. Student states his/her concerns and possible improvements, i.e., “What I wasn’t pleased with was…
  3. Supervisor states his/her positive feelings, i.e., “What I think worked well…”
  4. Supervisor states his/her concerns and suggestions for areas of improvement.
  5. Supervisor checks out what the student heard.


Helpful feedback needs to include both the positive and the negative.  There is always something that was good as well as something that can be improved or fine-tuned.  Also, the student does not always need to be the subject of the evaluation.  Much can be learned by evaluating a sermon or leadership event given by the supervisor.

C.  Theological Reflection

Focused on a theological concept that the intern and/or supervisor find(s) challenging in relation to the actual practice of ministry in the parish setting.  This type of reflection helps the intern’s pastoral formation as theology and practice are more solidly integrated.


NEXT MEETING

Confirm the time and place.  Determine the agenda for the next supervisory session.


From Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary 2000-2001 Internship Manual.  Used by permission.