There is a growing need for youth representation in our churches, but once young people walk through the doors, where do they belong? Young people need to feel their gifts matter and can make a difference in the world. Opportunities and mentorship can lead to a discovery of purpose. The Ohio Episcopal Area Office of Ministry Intern Program is a place to begin.
The Ohio Episcopal Area Ministry Intern Program is a seven-week paid internship designed for college students interested in exploring a call to ministry while serving in a local church. During the program, interns engage in activities - serving alongside clergy and church leaders, visiting Methodist seminaries, and participating in the annual conference –that help discern their call.
During the West Ohio and East Ohio Annual Conferences, the interns served in a variety of leadership roles, including carrying the communion elements for the opening worship procession, speaking on stage during the memorial service, and executing tasks supporting the Office of Ministry.
This year’s interns are Noah Stienecker, serving at Ginghamsburg UMC; Amos Smith, serving at North Broadway UMC; and Terrell McCann Jr., serving at Celebration UMC in Euclid, Ohio.
When asked what inspired him to apply for the program, McCann shared, "I was encouraged by my pastor, who recognized my leadership potential. As a lay servant, I wanted to learn more about the broader ministry of The United Methodist Church, gain leadership experience, and broaden my understanding of how the Ohio Episcopal Area Conferences support local churches."
Like McCann, each intern was encouraged to apply by a pastor or mentor who recognized their gifts. That encouragement became the first step in exploring where God might be calling them to serve.
For future interns, Stienecker’s advice is simple: "Go in with no expectations and just see the amazing things that God will do." He encourages participants to remain open to God’s leading, knowing that whether they pursue vocational ministry or another calling, they can still glorify God and advance God's kingdom.
To learn more about the Ohio Episcopal Area Internship Program, click here