With 2.7 million people living in our region—including roughly 1.8 million who do not regularly attend any church—our presbytery possesses both a vast need and a great opportunity.
We are seeking future church planters who desire to reach churched and unchurched people with the gospel. We have internships, residencies, and apprenticeships available for men at every stage of development for church planting.
Our development program contains a series of phases to lead a man from the point of wondering if he should be an ordained pastor to being prepared to plant a church. Those with seminary education and ministry experience may enter an advanced phase. The presbytery or host church will provide significant financial support for participants in each phase.
Exploratory Internship
A one-year internship for a college graduate with a bachelor’s degree who is considering becoming a pastor and is open to the possibility of church planting.
Pastoral Residency
A 3-4 year residency in which a man will primarily accomplish his seminary education while gaining part-time ministry experience in the host church.
Church Planting Apprenticeship
A 1-2 year apprenticeship for a man with a seminary degree who is preparing to plant a church in northern or central Illinois. He will gain valuable experience serving in the host church and while simultaneously laying the groundwork for the new church. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and ordination requirements, the man will receive a call to plant a church in our region.
Watch a recent organizing service of a new church in Springfield, Exodus Presbyterian Church.
For more information, please contact Pastor Greg Grindinger and Pastor Brad Lucht using the form below:
A Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA)