This summer, we had our first intern at Revolution Church. He did an amazing job and learned a lot (I hope!) about ministry!
I think I probably learned much more. Here is what I learned:
- Instead of an internship, next summer (or before) we will have an internship program designed to give participants an inside look into our unique and exciting ministry environment.
- Internships need to be seen as a privilege and a great honor.
- When we hear “intern” we typically think of busy work, running errands, making copies…but effective internship programs need to meld that busy work (c’mon…part of it IS busy work) with being a contributing team member!
- Interns need to work hard! Changing the world is HARD WORK.
- Interns need to be positive.
- Interns need to have an incredible attitude!
- An application process is important.
- Lead Pastors need to be careful how buddy buddy they are with the intern(s).
- Interns need to be given some BIG responsibilities (like a BIG summer outreach project). And, when you hand them something that big, make sure you’ve run your risk analysis figures, because interns may cost you money.
- Interns can’t drive (sorry Cody, had to get one jab in at you.)
- Interns need a de-briefing before they wrap up their internship. A time when you can be brutally honest about things you have seen in their life.
- Interns need to read Scripture! Hand them a reading plan the day they start and tell them that their number one job over the course of the internship program is to grow closer to Jesus. Have them journal and share with you. EVERY. DAY.
- Interns need to leave your church radically dedicated to Jesus!
- Give interns a shot at something BIG.
- Don’t underestimate the power of the intern. Interns can do HUGE things! At the same time, they can cause a LOT of damage, really fast.
- Inters need to have a servants heart. Make them mow the lawn at the church at least one time on a day when its 105 degrees outside.
- Interns need to be organized.
- Interns need to be on time!
