I’m sure some pastors read the title of this post and are tempted to ignore it, but I hope you’ll keep reading. I think every pastor needs – and can enlist – at least one intern. Here’s why:
- Jesus modeled discipleship this way. He invested in only a few (12, then 3, then likely 1—Simon Peter). Paul followed His pattern. If Jesus and Paul raised up leaders this way, it seems to me that we must at least consider it.
- Every pastor can use some help. I know each situation is different, but I’ve never met a pastor who didn’t some help doing something in ministry. An intern can be that person.
- Many pastors need to learn to delegate. At least if we have an intern who needs to learn to do ministry, perhaps we’ll share some of the load.
- Every pastor should be raising up the next generation of pastors or missionaries. It’s our job as pastors to challenge members to consider God’s call on their lives. As we do that, we also need to walk beside those who sense His calling.
- It doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, you don’t always have to pay an intern. Some will serve just because of their calling and their interest in learning from you. In some cases, students might earn college credit for an internship with you. Every pastor, regardless of church size, can make some kind of internship happen.
So, how do you find an intern if you want one?
- Pray for God to direct you to someone. Jesus prayed that way (Luke 6:12). Do the same.
- Start with someone who’s expressed a calling to ministry. Those who are called are more likely to want an internship.
- Look around to see who is already hanging around you. You might discover a young person who already wants to learn from you, but who’s afraid to let you know.
- Contact a local college or university student ministry. I’d be surprised if there’s no one there who wants to learn from a caring, veteran pastor.
- Check with other local pastors. Some pastors have more interested potential interns than they can handle. You might find your connection in another congregation.
So, does having an intern take work? Yes.
Do you have to re-prioritize to make this happen? Probably so.
Might you fail as you get started? It’s possible.
Is enlisting an intern risky? Can be.
Is it worth the risk? Absolutely. I assure you it is.
Thanks Dr. Lawless. This is a great post. Sadly I tried this at church and was told several things: “Why do you need help? Shouldn’t you be doing everything? Aren’t you too inexperienced to mentor others? Don’t we pay YOU to preach every week?”
However, I liked your suggestion of finding a young, willing volunteer. My suspicion is that their concerns had more to do with paying someone for something they didn’t see as important, rather than the actual position.
Blessings, Drew!