Ministry Development Program

The Highlands Church Ministry Development (MD) Program offers exposure, experience, and equipping to those who believe they are called to full-time ministry and who have an expressed desire to increase their ministry effectiveness. The MD Program offers opportunities for personal ministry growth through apprenticeships, internships and residencies.

Apprenticeship

An apprentice is an individual seeking to gain exposure to a specific ministry task or skill, or perhaps complete a self-directed ministry project.

Internship

An intern is an individual seeking extended experience in a specific aspect of ministry in order to gain knowledge and skills while assessing one’s call to ministry. 

Residency

A resident is an individual seeking to be equipped for full-time ministry and has affirmed God’s call to ministry. Residents are immersed in the day-to-day practice of church ministry. We offer both pastoral and non-pastoral residencies 

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES 
  • Children
  • Students
  • Adult Groups
  • Women's Ministry
  • Marriage
  • Outreach
  • Worship 
  • Production
TO APPLY

Interested in our program? Request an application by emailing us at  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is the ideal candidate for the Ministry Development Program?
The Ministry Development Program affords opportunities in ministry for those who are seeking to gain exposure to specific ministries within a local church, those who are sensing a possible call to full-time ministry, or those believing God has called them into full-time vocational ministry service. 

What is the time commitment?
Apprentices are expected to meet regularly with their ministry leaders and work toward a collaborative development plan, generally 1-2 days per week. Interns are generally on-site 2-4 days per week, with hours varying between 10-20 hours per week. Residents will generally work between 20-35 hours, depending on one’s residency track.

Does an applicant need to be enrolled in college or seminary to be considered?
Apprentices do not need to be enrolled in college; they must be 16 years old or older. Interns must be enrolled in college or demonstrate ample life/ministry experience. Residents who are in the pastoral residency track are required to be enrolled in seminary. Other residency tracks do not have an education requirement but must demonstrate ample life experience.  

Does the MD Program include compensation or benefits?
Apprenticeships are unpaid, voluntary roles. Interns and residents are paid bi-weekly as temporary, non-exempt employees of Highlands Church. Paid Sick Time will accrue per Arizona state laws. No other benefits will be available. Funding for the MD Program is determined in the church annual budgeting process and is subject to change, while maintaining compliance with all state and federal compensation requirements. 

Can Highlands Church assist with work permits or visas for international applicants?
Candidates are required to be eligible for work in the United States to be considered for our program. Highlands is unable to assist with this process. In some cases, the seminary to which pastoral residents are admitted may be able to assist with a student visa. An international pastoral resident applicant should check with his/her seminary regarding options for assistance with student work permit/visa needs.

Does the MD Program include housing?
We do not provide housing or a housing allowance.

Does an apprentice, intern, or resident need to attend Highlands Church?
All MD Program participants are required to attend Highlands Church and agree with and support the overall vision of Highlands’ leadership and its philosophy of ministry. Participants must also agree with the Highlands Church Statement of Faith and Statement on Marriage and Sexuality. Interns and Residents, in addition, are required to become members of Highlands Church.

How long does the MD Program take to complete?
Apprenticeships last 1-3 months, internships last 1-3 years, and residencies last 2-3 years. These are general guidelines which may be modified by the church or the candidate. 

How many candidates are admitted in the MD Program?
For the ministry 2025-2026 ministry year, Highlands will have three internships and three residents. Additional opportunities may occur later in the year.

When does the MD Program start?
The MD Program calendar generally mirrors an academic year calendar, but it is common to start candidates during summer prior to fall ministry launch. Additional opportunities may occur within the year.

Does Highlands Church provide job placement support for graduates of the MD Program?
Highlands Church has a Kingdom focus and enjoys relationships with ministry partners within and beyond the greater Phoenix area as well as globally, and is committed to helping MD Program graduates find their next full-time ministry opportunity. However, there is no guarantee that completion of the program will result in employment.

How can I get more information about the Highlands Church MD Program and/or apply?
If you have additional questions or would like more information, please contact   or call us at 480-348-9191. You can also reach out to Pastor Ed Lutz directly at .