School of Ministry
At Pinelake, we believe the next generation isn’t just the future of the church. They’re part of what God is doing right now.
That’s why the School of Ministry exists: to disciple, develop, and deploy emerging leaders through hands-on ministry experience and intentional spiritual growth.
Through summer internships and year-long residencies, participants gain real-world training, personal discipleship, and mentoring from seasoned leaders. They’ll grow in God’s Word, build authentic community, and use their gifts to serve others.
Whether God leads them to serve in the church, the marketplace, or the mission field, the School of Ministry equips participants to discover His calling and step into it with confidence—impacting Mississippi and beyond one life-change story at a time.
Summer Internship Program (11 Weeks)
The Pinelake Summer Internship is more than a program. It’s a chance to step into what God is doing right here in Mississippi. Designed for college students who’ve completed their freshman year, this hands-on ministry experience helps young leaders grow in their walk with Christ while serving the local church.
Interns will be paired with Pinelake staff in our NextGen environments (preschool through 12th grade) with the potential to explore other areas of ministry based on their passion and interests. Along the way, they’ll receive personal discipleship, leadership development, and the opportunity to discover how God has uniquely called them to make an impact for His Kingdom.
What to Expect
- Serve in a life-giving church that values young leaders
- Receive leadership training and practical ministry experience in various settings
- Significant involvement in kids and student camps and events
- Participation in evangelism and other spiritual growth opportunities
Requirements to Apply
- Be a growing disciple of Christ
- Embody the values of Pinelake Church
- Completed at least your freshman year of college
Priority application deadline: November 30, 2025
Ministry Residency Program (12 Months)
The Pinelake Ministry Residency is a one-year journey for those sensing God’s call to lead in the local church. This is an opportunity to live a Jesus-centered life while learning how to shepherd others.
Residents engage in both classroom learning and hands-on ministry, walking closely with seasoned pastors and leaders. Along the way, they’ll grow deeper in God’s Word, be equipped in leadership and spiritual formation, and develop the practical skills needed to serve the church with humility and purpose.
What to Expect
- Classroom Learning (3 days/week): Be trained by seasoned ministry leaders with an emphasis on spiritual formation, theological foundation, and leadership development
- Ministry Rotations (2 days/week): Gain practical, hands-on experience by serving in ministry rotations across campuses, matched to your gifts, interests, and campus ministry needs.
- Mentoring: One-on-one coaching from seasoned ministry leaders
- Missions: Opportunities to serve in local and global contexts
- Spiritual Growth: Life-on-life discipleship and deep engagement with the Word and prayer
Requirements To Apply
- Have a mature, growing relationship with Christ.
- Be able to articulate how this residency will help you honor God’s call for your future.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent (additional education is valued).
- Fully agree with Pinelake’s Core Beliefs and Vision + Mission + Values
Second Year Option
- Qualified residents may be given an opportunity to return for a second year, serving on a specific campus team while continuing development.