Equipping the Next Generation of Congregational Leaders

As part of Whitewater Valley Presbytery's Catalyst Collaborative initiative, the Congregational Ministry Fellowship invests in emerging leaders by providing meaningful, hands-on experience in congregational ministry. Through cohort-based partnerships with congregations, Fellows are invited to explore their gifts, discern their vocation, and develop leadership skills within a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) context.

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Whether considering a future as a pastor, church musician, professional lay leader, or simply seeking to better understand congregational leadership, Fellows gain practical experience while being mentored by experienced church leaders and supported by a cohort of peers.

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Program Overview

Fellows participate in a supervised, congregation-based internship under the guidance of a seasoned pastoral leader or church musician. In addition to their ministry experience, Fellows gather regularly with presbytery staff and fellow participants to reflect on leadership, ministry, and vocational discernment.

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Fellowship Details

• Up to 300 hours of ministry experience

• Stipend of up to $6,000 ($20/hour)

• Whitewater Valley Presbytery provides two-thirds of the stipend

• Participating congregations provide one-third of the stipend and ongoing mentorship

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What Fellows Will Experience

Fellows are encouraged to engage broadly in the life and ministry of a congregation, including opportunities such as:

• Worship planning and leadership

• Teaching and faith formation

• Pastoral care and visitation

• Program development

• Church administration

• Community engagement and outreach

 

Throughout the fellowship, participants will:

• Meet regularly with a mentor

• Participate in cohort gatherings and vocational reflection

• Explore leadership and service in the church

• Engage assigned readings and discussions

• Complete a final reflection for the Presbytery

 

Expectations for Participating Congregations

Congregations play a vital role in the Fellowship by providing meaningful ministry experiences and mentorship.

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Each participating congregation will:

• Contribute one-third of the Fellow's stipend

• Designate a mentor who meets weekly with the Fellow

• Provide a ministry description that offers broad exposure to congregational life

• Create opportunities for participation in worship, pastoral care, education, administration, and community engagement

• Submit a written reflection on the Fellow's experience at the conclusion of the program

 

Fellowship Cohorts

Whitewater Valley Presbytery will support up to 15 Fellows between 2026 and 2028, with no more than five Fellows participating in each cohort.

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Fellowships are awarded on a rolling basis according to application date. A maximum of two Fellows per congregation may participate in a single cohort.

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Apply

Congregations interested in participating in the Congregational Ministry Fellowship should complete the application form and submit it to Erin McGee.

 

For questions about the program, contact:

Rev. Dr. Erin McGee
emcgee@whitewatervalley.org