The purpose of this study was to build the foundation for a competency-based leadership training program in a local church by identifying the expectations of a group of congregation members in Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) churches regarding the characteristics of a competent lay elder who serves in a shepherding ministry. Biblical and ecclesiastical requirements demand an elder in the PCA to possess a measure of competency in fulfilling the requirements of the office. Effective service to the members of the congregation requires that an elder's ability go beyond a basic ability to recall facts. A competent elder must use knowledge of Bible content in a variety of ministerial circumstances, demonstrate an ability to relate well with people, and display attitudes that foster relational connections with others. The knowledge, skills, and attitudes join together to determine an elder's competency in the minds of church members. This study explored the expectations of 35 members of PCA churches through a series of six focus groups. The data provide the foundation for an elder training program based on competencies, as the list of competencies reflects the needs and desires of those who would be the recipients of the ministry of lay elders. In the minds of congregation members, the competency of lay elders in a shepherding ministry is intimately tied to an elder's ability to initiate and nurture interpersonal relationships. A lay elder candidate's knowledge and skill are important qualifiers, but competency ultimately depends on the attitudes an elder displays. The findings of this study serve as the basis for a competency-based program of training and assessment for elder candidates in the PCA and other denominations.