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FAQ
What is Blueprint?
Blueprint exists to prepare, connect, and mobilize new and aspiring pastors across North Carolina for faithful ministry. We aim to help equip early-career pastors, church revitalizers, planters, lay elders, and men aspiring to pastoral ministry with the tools and relationships they need to launch well and thrive in ministry—through monthly cohort gatherings, curated readings, and intentional mentorship.
Who is Blueprint for?
Blueprint is designed for aspiring and new pastors—men in their first five to seven years of ministry—as well as church planters and ministry leaders who want to grow in their calling and serve the church more effectively. It’s ideal for those who are eager to learn, open to being shaped, and deeply committed to the local church.
How is Blueprint different from seminary or traditional theological education?
Blueprint is local (context-driven) and relational, offering theological and practical equipping through local cohorts. It’s designed to complement, not replace, formal theological education by emphasizing spiritual formation and ministry practice.
Is Blueprint affiliated with a specific denomination or church?
Blueprint is a collaborative initiative led by NC Baptist pastors in collaboration with NC Baptist and local Baptist Associations.
Do I need to be a pastor to participate?
No, you don’t need to be a pastor to join. Blueprint is for men discerning a call to ministry as well as those already serving in pastoral roles.
Why is there a registration fee to join a Blueprint cohort?
There is a $200 registration fee for residents who sign up to be part of a local Blueprint cohort. This fee helps support the behind-the-scenes development, infrastructure, and mobilization efforts that make the program possible—much of which is generously subsidized by NC Baptists and local churches. These partnerships help keep the cost low for residents while ensuring a high-quality, sustainable experience.
Will I receive a certificate for completing Blueprint?
Yes! Residents who successfully complete the 10-month Blueprint cohort will receive a certificate of completion.
To be eligible for the certificate, residents must:
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Attend at least 7 of the 9 monthly cohort gatherings
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Participate in at least 7 of the 9 pastoral coaching sessions (Track One only)
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While not required, residents are strongly encouraged to attend one of the two Blueprint Road Trips during the cohort year.
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These requirements help ensure a meaningful and well-rounded experience as you grow in life and ministry.
Curriculum and Structure
What will I learn through Blueprint?
You’ll be equipped in the foundations of biblical shepherding, including topics like pastoral character, preaching, theology, church leadership, and community engagement. The goal is to form faithful, gospel-rooted leaders for the local church.
How long is the program?
The residency runs for 10 months, typically from August to May. Cohorts meet monthly for teaching, discussion, and encouragement.
What is the time commitment each month?
Residents should plan for one cohort gathering per month (about 2 hours), a one-hour meeting with a pastoral coach, plus time for reading and reflection.
What is the format of the cohort gatherings?
Each gathering focuses on a specific topic and typically includes teaching, discussion around assigned reading, time for prayer, and space for relational connection and networking. The gatherings are intentionally collaborative, with an emphasis on learning in community.
What books or materials will we be using?
Residents are provided with a curated set of books aligned with the monthly topics, along with a printed resident workbook. The books are included in your registration.
Are there assignments or required readings?
Yes, each month includes assigned readings and guided questions to help you engage with the content. These resources are designed to deepen learning and prepare you for discussion.
What are the Blueprint Road Trips?
In addition to monthly cohort gatherings, Blueprint offers two optional road trips each year to give residents meaningful exposure to Baptist life, missions, and ministry partnerships across the state and beyond.
Fall Road Trip: Residents travel to Cary, NC, for a site visit with NC Baptist, where they’ll learn about the services and resources available to churches. The trip also includes a one-day preaching lab hosted on campus by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Spring Road Trip: This trip includes a visit to the International Mission Board (IMB) headquarters in Richmond, VA, followed by a missions mobilization experience in New York City.
These experiences are offered at minimal cost and are strongly encouraged for residents, as they provide valuable connections and training beyond the local cohort. Participation is strongly encouraged.
The Cohort Experience
What is a cohort and who will be in mine?
A cohort is a small group of men pursuing ministry together in a specific geographic area. You’ll walk alongside others in your region who are committed to growing in faithfulness and leadership.
Who leads the cohort gatherings?
Cohorts are led by experienced local pastors who care deeply about training the next generation of leaders. They facilitate teaching, shepherd the group, and provide ongoing mentorship. You can see the men who serve on your local leadership team on the About Us page.
Cost and Registration
What does the registration fee include?
The fee covers all books, materials, and access to cohort gatherings and content throughout the year. Meals during gatherings are also typically included.
When is the deadline to register?
Registration typically closes in late-July for cohorts launching in August. Early registration is encouraged to ensure we’ve got resources prepared for you.
Logistics
Do I have to attend every gathering?
We strongly encourage residents to attend all gatherings to get the full benefit of the program. However, we understand life happens—if you miss a session, we’ll ensure you have the resources you need to catch-up.
Will meals be provided?
Yes, gatherings include a meal! Details vary by location.
What if I miss a session?
If you miss a gathering, you can still engage with the material and follow up with your cohort leader. We’ll make sure you stay connected and on track.
What does the registration fee include?
The registration fee helps support the behind-the-scenes development, infrastructure, and mobilization efforts that make Blueprint possible—much of which is generously subsidized by NC Baptists to keep the cost low for residents.
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