Interns

The Saint Paul Area Synod is excited to offer a unique vocational opportunity for young adults through paid summer internships.

Internships will run for nine weeks, from mid-June through mid-August. Interns will be paid a $4,000 stipend for the summer, funded by the synod’s Planting Hope Campaign. This level of financial support reflects the synod’s commitment to investing in young people of faith and accompanying them on their vocational journeys.

Each intern will be matched with a placement site, where they will work closely with a supportive mentor. Placement sites include congregations, mission starts and nonprofits, and interns will be able to work on projects related to a variety of areas, such as communications, administration, ministry, or social services. Whether you want to build a career in a certain field, or you’re just looking for a meaningful summer work experience, this program will be an opportunity to learn, serve and reflect.

Interns will work 26-30 hours each week, typically across four days. Most of that time will be spent at their placement sites, but each week, the interns will also gather for a few hours as a cohort. This will be a time for intentional reflection and discussion about what they’re experiencing and learning at their placement sites and what it means for their self-identity and faith.

We’re accepting applications now for young adults interested in an internship for Summer 2023. Your application will be reviewed by a team at the synod, and we may reach out to you for additional interview. Thanks for your interest in this program and your willingness to use your gifts to serve the church and the world! Click here for information about applying as a placement site.

Criteria for Interns

• Interns will have an interest in exploring the connection between their faith life and their professional/vocational life.
• Interns will have completed their junior or senior year of high school by summer 2023 and up to age 21.
• Interns will have a connection to an ELCA congregation in the Saint Paul Area Synod. (For example, they could be a member of a SPAS congregation, or they could be a member of a faith community that is a tenant of a SPAS congregation.)
• Interns will commit to working 26-30 hours per week, typically across 4 days, from June 12 through August 10. Time off will be given on June 19, July 3-7, and two additional weekdays determined mutually by the intern and supervisor.

How to Apply

To indicate your interest in this paid summer internship, just complete the brief application form below. Then provide two references, including one from your pastor. We want them to tell us more about you and how you would be a fit for this internship program. References should be submitted directly to the program's coordinator, Bristol Reading, at pastorbristolreading@gmail.com.