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Pastoral Internship with the Mission? What Is It?

by Bev Paulson

Not to make light of a program whose goal is to enhance the development of elders for rural church ministry, but what precisely does that mean? When individual interns are involved in a supervised, well-rounded "rural pastoral experience," member expectations may range from court juggler to parish confessor. And must they always be a Superman Who Rights All Wrongs?

Eight objectives dominate the Rocky Mountain Bible Mission pastoral internship program:

1. To cultivate Christian integrity in his personal life—consistent devotional life; sensitivity, communication and commitment in marriage; prepared statement of conviction; vocational initiative.
2. To serve on a leadership team— intra-church and extra-church leadership.
3. To appreciate the purpose of the local church—in evangelism and edification.
4. To become familiar with strategic planning for the rural church—background and development assistance.
5. To gain experience in ministry relationships—visitation, counseling, conciliation.
6. To learn to officiate special services.
7. To develop preaching and teaching skills—study habits, preparation of lessons and materials, and presentation of lessons and sermons.
8. To integrate biblical theology with ministry.

Currently, the Mission has two intern couples [see related story]. Requirements of pastoral interns include conviction to enter a rural ministry, commitment by the intern, supervising pastor, church, and Mission executive board to work together to meet the objectives of the program.

The Mission seeks to offer timely support and resources to the rural communities in our area. Providing guidance, structure, and mentoring to those called of God is one service. If you would like to know more about this program, please contact us.