While the concept of mentoring is used frequently in discussions about and within educational settings of all levels (primary, secondary, higher education), little is known based on empirical study about the nature of faculty members' peer relationships. This qualitative study examined the characteristics of successful peer relationships among faculty members in evangelical Christian colleges and universities (CCCU member institutions). Of primary applied importance is whether these peer relationships could serve as a substitute for mentoring in faith-based institutions of higher education. Extended discussion and analysis of intensive interviews is provided. Implications and applications for faculty development programs in evangelical Christian colleges and universities are discussed along with limitations of the current study as well as possible future research. (Contains 1 table.)