Internships and Placements

Types of Internships and Placements

Church Internships

A church internship is a programme of study that includes working at a church under the supervision of experienced church leaders. As a Level 5 intern, you can get involved in ministry areas that you're passionate about, like youth or children's ministry, worship and creative arts/media, or supporting community outreach programmes. The goal is to provide hands-on experience and training to help our interns develop skills and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to work in a church setting.

Faith-based Internships

A faith-based internship offers a unique opportunity to work with a diverse range of Christian organisations, including camps, schools and independent ministries. Through collaboration with organisations like Christian Camping New Zealand and Word of Life, interns gain hands-on experience in various ministry areas. Our programme has a proven track record of success, with graduates of Pathways Bible College progressing into a variety of leadership roles.

Leadership Host Placements

Leadership host placements provide Level 6 students with an opportunity to unlock their potential as Christian leaders by connecting with a Host Organisation, such as a church, mission, or faith-based organisation, throughout the year. Students are connected to their Host Organisation throughout the year and also complete two practicum placements in this or another organisation, usually around May and September to October.

Finding Your Purpose

Do you wonder what your purpose in life is as a Christian? Here are a few ways to help find your purpose:

Pray and seek God's guidance

Ask God to reveal your purpose and to help you align with his plans for your life.

Study the Bible

Look for themes and passages that resonate with you and can provide guidance on your life's purpose.

Identify your talents, passions, and experiences

Think about what you're naturally good at and what you enjoy doing, and how these might fit into God's plan for you.

Seek counsel from others

Talk to trusted friends, family members, pastors, or mentors who can offer advice and support.

Get involved in your church and community

Serve others and look for opportunities to use your talents for the betterment of others and to glorify God.

Trust the process

Remember that finding your purpose is a journey, not a destination, and be open to new experiences and opportunities that may arise along the way.

Is my study with Pathways a Gap Year?

Studying at Pathways Bible College can be a gap year – but it doesn't have to be. Dedicating a year (or more) towards deepening your faith, engaging in ministry, and discerning God's calling is a great way to prepare for your next step in life. In other words, if you're looking for a gap year option, this is a good one! But make no mistake: this course is not just limited to young adults in transition. Our programme is suitable for anyone who wants to be shaped into a more informed, more experienced and more dedicated disciple of Jesus. As such, we are a suitable option for those already embedded in work or ministry, or those looking to go on to complete a higher degree in theology. This is a programme that works for people at a variety of ages and stages of life.

Positives of studying with Pathways

Time for self-discovery and personal growth
Opportunity to travel to Pāpāmoa Beach for lectures
Get out of a rut to recharge and refocus on Christ
Development of new skills and interests
Improved mental and physical well-being
Meeting new people and developing lasting friendships
Work out your faith through a ministry you love

Practical Ministry

Nothing beats being able to apply what you are learning. That's what practical ministry is all about. It is the application of Christian beliefs and teachings in service to God and others, including evangelism, discipleship of others, and iniatives geared towards social justice. It involves using your gifts and talents to help meet the needs of individuals and communities, while sharing the love of Jesus Christ and living out the values of the Christian faith. The ultimate goal of practical Christian ministry is to bring people closer to God and to demonstrate his love and compassion through action.

Still Need Convincing?

If you are already involved in a practical ministry it might mean you are serving in an area of passion and gifting. Talk to your pastor, church leader, or a former intern to see if the ministry you are working in could become an internship.

If you are not sure about what kind of your ministry you want to intern in, here are some top tips on how to figure it out:

Pray for guidance and discernment in identifying your ministry
Consider your spiritual gifts, talents, and skills
Reflect on your passions and interests
Seek advice and feedback from trusted mentors, friends, and family members
Evaluate the needs of your church or community
Volunteer and try out different ministry opportunities
Test your ministry calling through trial and error
Be open to unexpected opportunities and redirection from God
Stay connected to God through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers