'Life as an Apprentice' Video click here.

Everyone must start somewhere!

Why is it being introduced?
Many younger people would like to spend a “year out” serving God, while others seek to gain experience or explore whether they will be involved in long term ministry. The apprenticeship scheme supported by Rural Ministries is very flexible and will normally operate for twelve months, commencing in September 2009. The desire is to see people equipped to make an effective contribution to future church leadership.

What are we looking for?
People with a passion for Jesus and a desire to make Him known. Each applicant should to be open to serving in a rural context, with a partner church and experienced Pastor. A willingness to learn and be involved with all aspects of church ministry is essential. Applicants need to be in agreement with the Rural Ministries Basis of Faith.

How will the scheme operate?

1. Apprentices will work under the direction of a Pastor who will act as a mentor. A role description will be developed giving details of expectations. This will be appropriate to gifts and experience.

2. One day each week is allocated for an appropriate study programme.

3. Applicants will be required to complete an application form and references will be checked. Early application is advisable.

4. If a good potential match is possible between the applicant and an interested Pastor and church, an introduction will be made. Any decisions, from this stage onwards, will rest with the Pastor and church.

5. The church will seek to provide appropriate accommodation.

6. Where necessary Rural Ministries will pay a bursary of up to £5,000. As this is a training position, the bursary is not a salary but is to designed assist with some of the living expenses.

7. The Apprentice will need to supplement the housing allowance and bursary with other living and study costs. (Possibly £5,000) Help will be available on how to prayerfully build a personal support base.

8. Rural Ministries will arrange and finance two mid-week residential experiences, looking at ministry in general and rural growth in particular.

9. Training and practice in developing a community profile and preparing an appropriate ministry strategy will be encouraged.

10. Visits will be arranged to other growing rural churches with opportunities to evaluate their ministry.

11. Rural Ministries will pay for the apprentice and their family to attend the annual Conference plus additional meetings specifically arranged for Apprentices.

Interested?
Make this a matter of prayer and then contact Rural Ministries on 01933 303050 for a preliminary conversation. Applications forms may be emailed to you or sent by post.

Please note: All the bursaries for 2008 have been allocated and more will be available commencing September 2009.

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