Greg–
i think you know you’ve replicated a new leader when the leader can lead on his own, others will follow, and he’s met whatever criteria you’ve set up for him (competencies).

Think of Moses commissioning Joshua before the people “so they would obey him.” But competencies, or benchmarks, have to be in place so you can measure progress. To me, a clear sign has been when volunteers begin to go to my new leaders instead of me. That means he/she is competent, the people trust him/her, and i’ve made a good handoff.
Like teaching a kid to ride a bike, you know they’re ready when you’re hands are off the bike and the kid is riding steadily with more and more confidence.

Ben–
At The Journey, we’ve been pretty terrible at celebrating wins…including new leaders. But I’m lately trying to do something informal and formal both. Staff meetings cover both…there’s some informality to it as we just hangout and connect. However, much like Joshua and Moses, there’s a commissioning in front of the staff and prayer for the person in their new role. On other levels, we do something similar in whatever group it may be.

Would love to hear what others think about all this and what they’re doing.
jd