Bridges to Ministry

Bridges to Ministry is an innovative internship program that provides college-aged men and women who have a heart to reach people with the Good News about Jesus Christ the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in ministry. Bridges to Ministry is designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead ministries and serve their communities.

For those who want to earn an accredited bachelor’s degree, this program provides academic training leading to B.A. degree and an internship that provides practical on-the-job training for students aspiring to serve in local churches as ministers or in other ministry positions.

Bridge Church partners with several colleges and universities to provide a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum. Students who choose the academic option in addition to their internship will receive a well-rounded education in theology, biblical studies and pastoral ministry. The internship component of the program is offered by Bridge Church Annapolis, which has an internationally recognized leadership team ready to provide direction and mentorship. During the internship, students will have the opportunity to work alongside these experienced pastors and ministry leaders, gaining valuable hands-on experience and developing their leadership skills.

Upon completion of the program, students will be well-prepared to enter ministry and serve their communities with excellence. They will have a deep understanding of the Bible and Christian theology, as well as practical experience in leading a congregation and serving others. Bridges to Ministry offers an excellent opportunity for anyone who is passionate about ministry and desires to release the transforming power of the gospel in their world.

About Bridge Church

‍Bridge Church is a family of Spirit-empowered believers who have come together to reach every person in Annapolis, Maryland with the good news about Jesus Christ. At Bridge, we accept each other, love each other, and support each other in our collective journey as Jesus followers.

Throughout its history, Bridge Church has been deeply invested in the community. Pastor Gary Kellner and the leadership are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to reach the people of Annapolis.

The church, Pastor Kellner and the church leaders are also committed to raising up young leaders in ministry. To that end, the church developed Bridges to Ministry.

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About Our Founder

The founder and cultural architect of Bridges to Ministry is Dr. Gary Kellner, an energetic and innovative leader who has spent most of his ministry developing leaders both in the US and internationally. His coaching tree includes university presidents and administrators, college professors, pastors, evangelists, as well as leaders of ministries and non-profits. He re-engineered in-service education for the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary while he was still in his 30s. He shepherded the development of an international coalition of Christian leaders to create the first Western-style graduate program in leadership in the former Soviet Union. The International Center for Christian Leadership has been in the vanguard of training and equipping leaders in every sector of Ukrainian society for more than 20 years.

Dr. Kellner is recognized as a revival leader and as an historian of revivals. He has participated in every significant move of the Holy Spirit in the US, Africa, Latin America, the former Soviet Union and Africa.

What Interns Do

‍Interns in Bridges to Ministry have the opportunity to get hands-on experience in five areas of ministry:

• Worship & the Arts
• Children’s Ministry
• Youth Ministry
• IT & Social Media
• Community Outreach & Mission

Interns will work in one primary area but will also work in at least one other area.

We believe that people starting out in ministry need the opportunity to experiment with their gifts and talents. That’s why we encourage them to try a lot of things while they are at Bridge. Our interns discover talents that they didn’t know they had!

What We Commit to You

Bridge Church will provide the following to anyone who is accepted into the Internship Program:

• Leadership and direction in developing ministry skills
• Orientation and instruction regarding the daily operations of church ministries and outreaches
• Housing, including utilities and internet access
• Materials and supplies needed to complete ministry tasks
• Workspace in church offices
• A day off every week and all Federal holidays.
• Regular evaluation and feedback with the goal of achieving high ministry standards

What We Expect from You

Bridge Church expects the following  of participants in Bridges to Ministry:

• Transportation. Interns need to provide their own transportation. Although Annapolis has bus service, it is difficult to manage the responsibilities of the position without a car.
• Personal Support. Interns are responsible for their own daily needs including food and personal needs. Depending on the housing situation that is obtained for you, it is possible to coordinate this with other interns. Interns seek part-time employment. We recognize that, since this is an unpaid internship, it may be necessary to work or to obtain support from donations outside the church.
• Participation. Interns are expected to attend and participate in all church services, weekly staff meetings, weekly prayer meetings and outreaches. Interns will assist in the planning and production of special events, including conferences, Easter Egg Hunt, Best Christmas Ever, Back 2 School Bash.

How to Apply

‍If you believe God is calling you to ministry, Bridges to Ministry may be just the path to help you transition from the college classroom to the local church. If this sounds like you, take a few moments and fill out the online application and let’s see what God will do in you, for you and through you.

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