Forerunner: Learning to Lead by Serving
Leadership Begins with a Servant’s Heart
Many people think leadership is about being in charge. Jesus taught something very different.
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus consistently demonstrated that true leadership is expressed through humility, service, and love for others. He didn’t seek recognition or position. Instead, He served, sacrificed, and invested in people.
The Forerunner program at Shepherd’s Fold Ranch is built on that same biblical model.
Designed as the bridge between being a camper and becoming a staff member, Forerunner helps students begin making the transition from receiving discipleship to actively serving others. It is an opportunity to grow in responsibility while continuing to deepen their relationship with Christ.
Growing Through Intentional Discipleship
The teenage years often bring important questions about identity, purpose, and the future. Forerunner creates space to explore those questions through biblical teaching, mentorship, and practical ministry experience.
Campers are encouraged to understand that God created each person intentionally and knows them individually. As they mature, they also learn to recognize the spiritual challenges that often accompany this stage of life.
Topics explored during the program include:
- Finding your identity in Christ
- Understanding God’s purpose for your life
- Recognizing spiritual opposition
- Growing through faith instead of fear
- Developing spiritual habits that strengthen your walk with Jesus
These lessons are paired with opportunities to serve others, helping students put their faith into practice while learning alongside experienced leaders.
Preparing the Next Generation of Christian Leaders
Forerunner is more than leadership training. It is discipleship in action.
As students serve around camp, they begin developing qualities that will benefit them wherever God leads them in the future. They learn responsibility, teamwork, humility, initiative, and the importance of faithfully serving others, even in small tasks.
Many students who complete the Forerunner program continue into The Furnace after high school, where they receive even deeper discipleship and leadership training. Others take what they have learned back to their churches, schools, and communities, serving Christ wherever they are.
At Shepherd’s Fold Ranch, we believe the strongest leaders are those who first learn to serve. Our hope is that every Forerunner leaves with a greater love for Jesus, a heart for people, and the confidence to lead with humility wherever God calls them.
If your student is ready to grow in responsibility, deepen their faith, and discover what servant leadership looks like, the Forerunner program may be the next step in their discipleship journey.