The Furnace
2012 Video
Curriculum
Summer Discipleship Training Program
“The Furnace” is more than just a summer job. Students 18-24 years old learn leadership skills through our 8 week discipleship training program that involves on the job training in ministry, as well as mentorship and Bible training while on summer staff here at SFR.
2013 Summer Dates: May 22 – July 18 (Staff Party is July 18)
“Remove the dross from the silver and produce material for the silversmith.” Proverbs 25:4
Those in The Furnace will get experience in counseling and teaching campers, ages 5-17 years old, as well as supervising and mentoring small groups. These ‘students’ will go through training classes each week with mentors and teachers that are currently working in ministries around the world. These teachers are Prophets, Apostles, Pastors, Teachers and Evangelists that have mature ministries, affecting thousands of people each year. As a part of the training, ‘students’ will have weekly assignments in one of our many counseling or support positions. This “hands on” experience will change your life!
The Furnace is optimally a four summer program designed to prepare you for Christian leadership, not just in your heart but also in your mind. At SFR, we’re not just trying to train leaders for summer camps. Our goal is to also train leaders who can function in their local church, family, school, job, and in life! The four summers are not required, but are highly recommended. The first two summers are specifically geared to challenge and renew your “thinking” about God and ministry. The second two summers focus directly on “acting” out your Christianity as a follower and as a leader. You’re invited to come and sow into this “field” as we sow into you for multiple summers and experience the growth that occurs when you are carefully tended by the “vinedresser”.
The Progression
First Year Emphasis: Foundation Romans 12:9 – 13:10 – Authority and Identity
Second Year Emphasis: Elementary Teachings Hebrews 5:7-6:12 – Repentance from dead works, faith in God, instructions about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
Third Year Emphasis: Being Imitators of Christ Philippians 1-27 – 2:15 – Imitating Christ’s Humility
Fourth Year Emphasis: Summer Camp Leadership Team 1 Corinthians 13– The most excellent Way
Testimonies
Claire Yinger
“The Furnace has completely changed my life. It has taught me character, integrity, and what it truly looks and feels like to live in community. Doing the Furnace is one of the BEST decision I have ever made. I am FOREVER thankful for Shepherd’s Fold!”
Anna Miller
“I owe my ability to love, communicate, lead and process life to this discipleship program, and I wouldn’t trade my summers learning for anything in the world. The rest of my life will benefit from it, husband, children, students, relatives and friends. I LOVE THE FURNACE!!”
