Is a church residency necessary for church planters?

Residencies – they’re not just for medical students. A residency in a church can be a very helpful season for a future church planter. But what should a residency look like? How can it benefit both a church and someone receiving an education in ministry? And what’s the difference between an internship and a residency? 

0:29 Danny introduces the episode topic of church residencies and internships when it comes to ministry.

1:00 Lee admits he’s passionate about the need for residencies and internships because of his background in his education and church experience. 

1:20 Lee knows there are a lot of gaps when it comes to getting an education in ministry and executing ministry. He explains his view on this.

3:06 What is a residency? Lee explains what it is and what it isn’t.

4:09 Danny asks what’s the difference between an internship and a residency?

4:19 Lee shares his thoughts on how an internship in a church is different from a residency.

5:04 Danny wants to know what ministry residencies look like at Harvest Community Church, the church Lee pastors.

5:25 Lee gives a run down of what completed residencies at Harvest Community Church have looked like and what’s going on with their current residencies.

8:47 Danny wants to know if residencies are paid position, and if not, how does that work for the student?

9:11 Lee explains the preference both Converge and Harvest Community Church have when it comes to paid vs. unpaid church residencies. 

10:14 Danny touches on the benefits of raising support for church planting residents.

10:39 Lee gives some tips on other non-monetary ways churches can invest in and support church planting residents.

11:46 Danny wants to know: what questions should church planters ask churches as they consider completing a residency?

12:01 Lee reveals the number one question church planters should ask.

12:30 Lee talks about the second question that needs to be asked when considering a residency and when a church planter should walk away.

13:36 Lee reflects on his time of practical learning before he planted a church.

14:10 Do you have questions about finding a residency, opening your church to hosting a resident, or anything else? Email Converge to ask and receive some follow up!