“I learned how many people are needed to make this church run.... I realized that everyone has a part in ministry.” -Brittany Schettler, Central United Church, Brandon, MB
Summer Student Grants began in 2015. The grant offers half the cost of minimum wage to congregations that hire youth and young adults (16-25 years old) into summer positions that encourages engagement between the youth and the congregation.
In the past three summers over 20 churches across the country have received over $25,000 in grants to hire youth and young adults to help with Sunday worship, outreach programs, archiving projects, anniversary celebrations, pastoral care support, community garden organization, etc.
Participants have learned about what it really takes to make a church run and build authentic community. The congregations have often learned about the incredible energy and creativity that a young person can bring to a project that they have been dreaming of.
I will let them share their experiences in their own words:
“I’ve learned a lot and became more confident in myself. Throughout my experience, I’ve met such great people, and was always surrounded by a warm and positive environment.” - Melody Mangabay, Hope United Church, Toronto, ON
“Charity is only 21 years old and with this experience she will be a good resource to the body of Christ where ever she will.” - Rev. Dr. Simon Muwowo, Burin Pastoral Charge, Burin, NL
“Younger generations are sometimes viewed as a lesser importance by the congregations but at least for me personally, getting the chance to get to know everyone a little better, through visits, phone calls, and working with them has helped me to gain a sense of family with everyone here at Gibson.” – Tyler Seymour, Gibson Memorial United Church, Fredericton, NB
“I was able to immerse myself into the workings of the church, and learn about the small roles that individuals play to make the church that I know exist the way that it does. I have learned lessons that I am sure will stay with me for the rest of my life.” - Amy McPherson, Islington United, Toronto, ON
“Seeing (the young person’s) energy and curiosity about the life and work of the church has also helped me to feel reinvigorated in aspects of my own vocation and work as a clergy person.” – Rev. Isaac Mundy, Siloam United Church, London, ON
Summer Student Grant Applications are now open and will be received until March 31, 2018.
—Rev. Bronwyn Corlett, Program Coordinator, Ministry Recruitment.
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