This past summer, God opened the door for us to be able to have a summer ministry intern come serve in our church. For the past couple of years, it has been something that I had wanted to do, but was uncertain about whether it was worth the financial burden on our church and the administrative burden on me. But, after having our first ministry intern serve with us for a summer, I can tell you without hesitation that it is absolutely worth it!
Let me share several reasons I am glad we made the decision to have a summer ministry intern:
1. It Is an Investment
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.—2 Timothy 2:2
Though I have not been in the ministry long, I am well aware that it only takes one generation to greatly compromise both the doctrine and the practice that generations before have preached, practiced, and even given their lives for. Having a summer ministry intern is just one of many ways to pass down to the next generation of ministers the sound doctrine and practice you have received from those who have invested in you.
As a young pastor, let me also say, it is better to instruct the next generation in the right way with the right spirit, than to isolate them from your influence or to indict them from your pulpits when they aren’t doing it the way you would do it. You may be surprised to find that there are many young people who are still teachable if you will take the time to do so! Most young men value the investment and influence of those who are more seasoned in the ministry.
2. It Is an Inspiration
Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.—1 Timothy 4:12
There were many instances when our church members told me how inspired and stirred they were by the example and the passionate ministry of our summer intern. Having a young man around who is sold out for God and passionate about the ministry certainly will not hurt your church. Rather, it will give your people a vision for the future and it will challenge them to continue investing in future generations.
3. It Is an Improvement
Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor.—Ecclesiastes 4:9
Regardless of the size of your ministry, a summer ministry intern adds to your capacity to get more accomplished during the summer months. As the pastor of a congregation of about 200 people, having an intern allowed me to delegate some responsibilities that enabled me to better focus on leading, feeding, and interceding for God’s people. The responsibilities delegated were also opportunities of growth for our intern to get practical experience in the ministry. It was a win, win!
Overall, the blessings far surpass the burdens that may come from having a summer ministry intern. We look forward to having more young people come grow and serve in our ministry in the years to come! Let me encourage you to consider doing the same in your ministry. As a church, let me encourage you to support the vision to have a summer ministry intern both prayerfully and financially. It is a worthy investment indeed