Internship Opportunities Within The United Methodist Church and Affiliated Agencies

Transcription

1 Internship Opportunities Within The United Methodist Church and Affiliated Agencies Opportunity Knocks Will You Answer? A Publication for the Young Adults of the Virginia Conference UMC

2 Table of Contents Local Church Internships Student/College Ministries Internships... 8 VA Conference Sponsored Internships General Connection Internships Other Agency Internships The information in these pages is provided merely as a guide to young adults in the Virginia Conference. Not all internships are paid. Persons interested should contact the churches and ministries directly for more information. Contact information is provided with each posting. This publication is provided through a partnership between the Young Adult Initiative and the Virginia Conference Board of Communications, Inc. 2

3 Local Church Internships Great Bridge UMC Youth Ministry/Program Ministry Intern Location: 201 Stadium Drive, Chesapeake, VA Application Deadline: April 24, 2011 Available this summer (2011) to assist the Director of Youth Ministries in providing summer ministry programs for youth, grades 6 through 12 Assist the Director of Adult & Children's Ministries with Vacation Bible School Position will require variable work hours for 10 weeks, from June to August Intern will be asked to develop programs for middle school and high school youth ministry nights held every Thursday of the summer; be available for day trips to Virginia Beach; work some nights in order to meet with individual or groups of youth (i.e. for ice cream, coffee); and assist/lead Children s Church, a Sunday School class, or program with young adult/college age students A successful candidate will be an adult (18 years or older) and provide the following: 300 word, double spaced essay explaining why you would like to be in ministry this summer Have a high school diploma from 2010 or earlier Demonstrate active church participation Provide a resume, cover letter, and two (2) work references Interview with GBUMC staff Full Job Description Assist the Director of Youth Ministries (27-32 hours per week) in all aspects of summer ministry duties and assist the Director of Adult & Children's Ministries (5-10 hours per week) in some aspects of ministry duties. This position requires a high school diploma. Supervision will be supplied by both directors. Intern will assist the Director of Youth Ministries in all aspects of summer ministry. Specifically: Provide leadership alongside director in summer youth mission trip(s) Make preparations for youth mission trips Develop and lead weekly youth ministry nights Plan and develop a summer youth calendar Compile, edit, and produce youth newsletter Plan and develop New Youth Leader Party Accurately maintain parental permission forms, medical release forms, and any files associated with summer trips Develop appropriate relationships with children, youth, and parents Attend weekly staff meetings and monthly Church Council meetings Provide ministerial support for director Assist with budget considerations for youth ministry areas as well as assist with budget preparation for September Assist in ministry design for the upcoming school year in youth ministry Continued on next page 3

4 (Great Bridge UMC Internship continued from previous page) Intern will assist the Director of Adult and Children s Ministries in these aspects of summer ministry: Teaching/leading Children s Church Teaching/leading Sunday school Performance Requirements: Demonstrates an understanding of job tasks Demonstrates the ability to follow oral and written directions Demonstrates good work habits including punctuality and regular attendance and efficient use of time Observes safety procedures as outlined in the Child/Youth Safety Policy Develops appropriate relationships with children, youth, and parents Works cooperatively with other staff members and complies with supervisory directions Maintains a professional attitude with congregation, parents, children, youth and supervisor Weekly journal of work experiences will be reviewed by supervisor Will attend weekly church services and Sunday school Physical Requirements: Work involves limited physical tasks, including walking, standing, bending, lifting, kneeling, and pushing. Hazards: Work involves use of computers and other office equipment. While on mission trips and beach days, hazards include, but are not limited to: swimming in bodies of water (rivers, oceans, etc.), using construction equipment, and playing games where running is involved. Evaluations: Performance will be evaluated through the use of a journal that will be reviewed by the intern s supervisor and through weekly review meetings. Stipend: A stipend will be granted for a minimum of 37.5 hours per week from June-August. Great Bridge United Methodist Church is an equal opportunity employer. Please send cover letter, resume, essay, and work references to: Youth / Programs Internship Great Bridge United Methodist Church 201 Stadium Drive Chesapeake, VA

5 Rising Hope UMC Children and Youth Ministry Summer Fun Activist Location: 8220 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA Ministry: Rising Hope Mission Children and Youth Ministry Dates of Internship: May 2011 through August 2011 Person reporting to: Children s Ministry Coordinator and Church Senior Pastor Description of the Intern Position: This is a highly active, energy-filled position. It requires a love for all God s children and spirited engagement in an Outdoor Fun Fair, Vacation Bible School, one-week day camp assistance, and Back-to-School Supplies Campaign. The summer may also include occasional trips to Washington DC museums and parks, Virginia outdoor movies, and a community party. Duties of the Intern: Recruitment and outreach advertising Volunteer-management assistance and training Hands-on creative arts and crafts abilities Computer data-base maintenance (Excel) Qualifications: The applicant must: Be an excellent toll-booth agent: Think fast on your feet and be ready to make lots of change! Love speaking in peace and harmony about the Word of God. Experience working w/all kinds of people in an inclusive environment Enjoy working w/arts and crafts Good sense of humor is essential Bi-lingual in Spanish is a plus, but not essential Local, northern Virginia resident preferred w/valid driver s license Undergraduate degree (associate s degree in relevant subject considered) Rewards/benefits of this position: Stipend plus meals Certification-eligible credential Opportunity to prepare relevant written and pictorial journal for academic credentials (to be discussed/approved with coordinator.) Contact: Rising Hope UMC 8220 Russell Road Alexandria, VA (703)

6 Rising Hope UMC Intern working with Mission and Ministry with the Least, Lost, Lonely & Left-out Location: 8220 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA Ministry: Mission and Ministry with the Least, Lost, Lonely, & Left-out Dates of Internship: June 2011 through August 2011 (dates negotiable) Person Reporting to: Volunteer Coordinator, Deborah Lloyd Allers Description of the Intern Position: Rising Hope is a mission church within the VA Conference of the United Methodist Church. We minister to the spiritual and physical needs of those along the Route 1 corridor in Alexandria, VA, one of the most depressed areas of the county. In addition to our Sunday worship, daily prayer service, and related bible studies, we operate a food pantry, a clothes closet and provide hospitality and emergency assistance to over 8000 individuals a year. Intern would be exposed to the entire operation of our mission church and be able to assist in the direct support ministries. Those called to work with the poor and indigent will learn from hands-on experience with those in need. Duties of the Intern: Participate in daily prayer service, listening or leading as appropriate. Participate in Sunday worship and bible study. Assist in the food pantry which operates 2 days a week. Assist in the clothes closet which is open 4 days a week. Assist with noon day lunches, served 4 days a week. Assist with prayer and assistance to those coming in with problems associated with daily living. Administrative duties associated with the above. Qualifications: Possess a passion to serve others and learn from their association with those less fortunate Bi-lingual in Spanish is a plus, but not necessary Undergraduate Degree or Associate s Degree, but others will be considered depending on age and maturity Rewards/benefits of this position: Room and stipend if out of area. Experience in dealing with people of all socioeconomic strata and many with mental, physical and emotional illnesses. A life changing experience. Contact: Rising Hope UMC 8220 Russell Road Alexandria, VA (703)

7 Asbury United Methodist Church (Church Hill) Community Intern Location: 324 N. 29th Street, Richmond, VA Congregational Description: We are an intergenerational people of faith living into our core values of embrace, celebrate and collaborate in the historic Church Hill in Richmond, Virginia. Our presence for 167 years laid the foundation for our community image. It is simply time to go deeper in our relationship building. More information concerning our relationship building and ministries in this community is reflected in our website: In light of our relationship building in community thrust, we need a community intern. This is an unpaid seven hour per week position. Job description: Young adult (preferably in college or seminary), who will attend community civic association meetings to keep congregation informed of city development plans and other issues that will impact the community. The intern will also start a small group ministry (bible Study or book club) in the community (non-traditional setting) to address issues relevant to community relationship building. This intern will be supervised by the pastor and application process is open. To apply for position: Please contact Rev. Heckstall at (804) or send resume to Asbury UMC 324 N. 29 th Street Richmond, Virginia Immanuel UMC Seminary Intern Location: 7901 Heritage Drive Annandale, VA *Please note this position is only for Wesley Theological Seminary Students on MDiv/Pastor Track Congregational Description: Immanuel UMC is a welcoming congregation with gifts of tolerance and compassion. It is a good place for future pastors to receive validation for vision for ministry. The church is seeking to become a multicultural congregation. Internship Description: Our current intern is working with us in the areas of worship and preaching and evangelism and small group ministry. Unpaid position. We do provide the seminarian some gas money ($50 per month). Number of hours per week: 10 hours; beginning Fall 2012 Position overseen by: Pastor and Lay Leader Persons may apply by February 28, 2012 (please note year) Obtain a Practice of Ministry and Mission Application from Wesley Seminary and send to the pastor at Immanuel UMC 7901 Heritage Dr. Annandale, VA (703)

8 Spirit and Life Church New Church Plant Intern Location: Forest Park High School Auditorium Forest Park Drive Woodbridge, VA Congregational Description: This is an exciting new church plant in Prince William County, Virginia. Internship Description: The intern will shadow the lead pastor, helping evangelize/recruit newcomers to church, prepare for worship services, help coordinate small groups, complete additional office/administrative tasks as needed. For more information contact: Rev. Matt Meisenhelter (571) College/Student Ministry Internships Pace Campus Ministry (Wesley Virginia Commonwealth University) Location: Richmond, VA Pace Campus Ministry traditionally offers an opportunity for students in seminary needing a nonparish setting for their Field Education requirement. The person must apply through their respective seminary to verify that the setting meets their need. In the past, Union Presbyterian Seminary, has paid the stipend if the student is enrolled in their program of study through a grant from The Presbytery of The James. The terms of the contract varies, depending on the gifts/graces of the student and the needs of the ministry. However, a staple of the agreement involves hours/week of the Intern developing some form of small group and being involved in Spiritual Formation of same group within the VCU campus. For more information, please contact James G. Daniely, D. Min., Director, Pace Campus Ministry. (804) (Office) jdaniely@vcu.edu 8

9 Virginia Conference Sponsored Internships VA UMC Conference Office Interns Location: Virginia United Methodist Center Glen Allen, VA Application Deadline: February 1, 2011 The Virginia Conference offices of (1) Congregational Development and Evangelism, (2) Leadership and Inclusivity, and (3) Mission and Global Justice are seeking three separate summer interns for Applicants should desire to pursue a career in a ministry setting, have experience in and passion for the area of interest, and familiarity with The United Methodist Church. Intern salary is $250 a week (with a minimum of 10 weeks). Guidelines for Summer Interns at The Virginia United Methodist Center: -The Conference Office generally hires 3-4 summer interns. These interns typically work in one of these four offices: 1) mission and global justice, 2) ministries with young people, 3) leadership and inclusivity, and 4) congregational development and evangelism. -Applicants must have graduated high school and express an interest in exploring a call to ministry. The purpose of Conference internships is to foster an environment of discernment for ministry vocation. -Openings for interns are advertised in January of each year with application due in February. -All applicants must be present in person for an interview. Two interview dates will be offered, and the Conference office will strive to schedule interviews during spring break for the convenience of students. -Priority will be given to individuals who demonstrate knowledge, experience, and passion for the area in which they apply as well as familiarity with The United Methodist Church. -An intern may reapply for a second summer, but cannot intern for more than two summers at The Virginia United Methodist Center. -Regular weekly office hours are expected, however, detailed work schedules will be negotiated between each intern and related supervisor. -Each intern will be paid $250 a week (with a minimum of 10 weeks). -Each office will determine the number of weeks to work in the summer and any vacation time. -Interns must complete a criminal background check and the results must indicate no conviction data prior to beginning work. The cost of a background check will be covered by the supervising office. -Interns must be willing to do both administrative support work and independent projects. -Each office will develop its own job description based on specific duties. -Overnight travel and trips, such as Annual Conference, will be required. Leadership and participation at other overnight events will be determined by each supervisor. For more information and to obtain an application please Becky Tate at beckytate@vaumc.org 9

10 Calling 21 Internships Location: Local Churches in Small Towns, Suburbs, and Cities around Virginia Application Deadline: February 1, 2011 "Calling 21" is a conference-wide, grass roots, congregation-based, youth-focused approach to the Virginia Conference's emerging culture of call. During the summer, college students are placed in church internships. These students spend a summer immersed in the life of a local church, not their own, discerning God's call into church leadership. The Calling 21 interns will both learn and lead. The host church will be a church that has been noticed and named for their potential to help young people hear God s call upon their lives. The intern s stipend will be $2500. Applicants shall be college students and interested in exploring their call to church leadership. The Calling 21 partners include: The Institute for Church Professions of Shenandoah University, the Virginia Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, The Fund for Theological Education, the Virginia Conference Cabinet, and the Calling 21 Host Congregations. For additional information and information on how to apply, go to General Connection Internships General Board of Global Ministries Mission Intern Program The United States and Abroad Application Deadline: February 15, 2011 The Mission Intern Program is a leadership development and social justice opportunity for young adults (20-30 years old). The three-year program is divided into an 18-month international work/study assignment and an 18- month action/education assignment in one's own country. It is an opportunity for young people to hear the prophetic voice of communities and individuals around the world who are working for systemic change and to apply that experiential learning to their home context. The program encourages participants to learn about and live out the transformative gospel of Jesus Christ while working as grassroots organizers and/or advocates in areas of conflict resolution, peace, education, environmental justice, economic development, indigenous rights, and women's and children's issues. (Description copied from For complete information including goals, candidate criteria, examples of placement sites, program placement timeline, and instructions on how to apply, please visit: Contact Information: For more information please call (212) or youngadults@gbgm-umc.org 10

11 General Board of Higher Education & Ministry Research Assistant Intern Location: Nashville, TN Reports to: Director of Research and Data Services Status/Schedule: Part-time; Hourly Pay; Offers flexibility with work schedule within a Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m., workweek Internship Duration: Two year Internship to begin in 2011 Responsibilities: Obtain practical research experience in an applied setting. The research office conducts institutional, denominational, and social scientific research providing empirical evidence for decision making, program design, and assessment. The research assistant will conduct secondary data analysis and reporting on a variety of projects, as well as, assist in primary research design, data collection, analysis and reporting. Issue knowledge relevant to the ordained ministry of The United Methodist Church and/or private, church-related higher education is a plus. This position is writing intensive. Ability to write clearly and concisely to multiple audiences both academic and non-academic is required. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, survey administration, data coding (including syntax), data entry, data cleaning, spreadsheet and database development, correspondence, literature reviews, instrument development, report writing, and interview scheduling. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor s degree with relevant research methodology coursework required; knowledge and understanding of research methods a must; familiarity with SPSS essential; interest in applied research in religion a plus; previous research experience preferred; strong critical thinking skills; proficiency with Word, Excel, and Access a must; strong oral and written communication skills; good organizational skills; strong attention to detail. Apply To: GBHEM Human Resources P.O. Box Nashville, TN Fax: (615) hr@gbhem.org In addition to your CV or resume, provide a writing sample that illustrates your ability to present research findings. The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. 11

12 Project Transformation Year Round and Summer Internships Location: Dallas, TX and surrounding area Project Transformation's internships are for young adults who have completed at least their freshman year of college and are interested in devoting a summer or year of their lives to be in service to others. The program is designed to offer young adults a hands-on opportunity to build lasting relationships with underserved children and youth, live in intentional community, experience cultural and socio-economic diversity, and explore various careers in service or ministry. Interns become AmeriCorps members during their service and earn a living stipend plus an education award for their service. As a United Methodist affiliated organization, PT also offers interns opportunities to grow in their faith journey and discern their calling during their service. To clearly separate these activities from the AmeriCorps funded program, interns have the option of participating in these components. Project Transformation offers several different service internship opportunities. Please visit for more information. Ethnic Young Adults Internship Program Location: Washington D.C. Selection Criteria The Ethnic Young Adults Summer Internship program is designed for young adults, between the ages of 18 and 22, representing the five ethnic caucuses of The United Methodist church. Applicants must have an interest in exploring issues of public policy, social justice advocacy, and social change. Interns must also have a passion in exploring faith and justice issues from a personal, institutional, and societal perspective. Interns will live in Christian community together in Washington, DC. Work weeks at placements will be supplemented by: evening intern led devotions, Friday Seminars on topics of timely social justice concern, area field trips, Sunday Worship in area United Methodist Churches. Participants must commit to all being present at these activities. For more information, please visit: click Leadership Development and then select Racial and Ethnic Connections. Other Agencies The Center for Youth Ministry Training Location: Various Churches from different denominations in Nashville and Memphis regions including North Alabama, North Mississippi, Eastern Arkansas, Southern Kentucky, and Middle and West Tennessee The Center for Youth Ministry Training internships are 2 ½ year placements at local congregations where our students serve as the youth director while working on a MA in Youth Ministry. Students come from all over the country and if accepted become a Memphis Theological student as a part of our program. Princeton and Duke are collaborating partners in our ministry. Requirements: -Minimum age is 22 years old -BA or BS undergraduate degree with a 2.5 on 4.0 scale cumulative average Note: Applicants who have not completed an undergraduate degree will be considered with demonstrated life experience. These students will not be able to receive graduate level credits or complete the MA degree, though they can still earn a certificate. Personal Qualifications: -God calls many different types of people to lead the church. The Center for Youth Ministry Training exists to equip those who have heard a distinct call to work with youth. The following demonstrates a readiness for our program: Commitment to Christ, the church, and the ministry of God's word A clear call to youth ministry as a vocation Personal and relational health, integrity, consideration of others, and physical and emotional fitness Potential to lead, inspire and relate positively with people For more information, and to apply, go to 12 Contact: Dietrich "Deech" Kirk deech@cymt.org