Empowering the Next Generation of Ministry Leaders
The Definition Residency Program is designed to train and develop the next generation of mission-minded ministry leaders through full-time apprenticeship and hands-on experience. This two-year immersive experience provides residents with the tools, mentorship, and real-world ministry experience necessary to thrive as healthy and effective leaders in the local church and beyond.
Whether you feel called to Kids, Youth, College, Pastoral ministry, or in the future, Worship and Creative, the Residency Program offers specialized tracks tailored to equip you in your area of passion and calling.
Residency Tracks
Kids Ministry Track
Invest in the next generation by creating dynamic, gospel-centered environments where children encounter Jesus.
Youth Ministry Track
Help middle and high school students grow in their faith and build strong biblical foundations.
College Ministry Track
Reach, disciple, and develop leaders on local college campuses.
Pastoral Ministry Track
Gain a comprehensive understanding of church leadership, pastoral care, and preaching.
(Coming Soon!) Worship & Creative Tracks – Opportunities for those gifted in leading worship, production, or creative media.
Foundations of the Residency Program
1. Ministry Experience
Experience is one of the best teachers. Residents work full-time (40 hours per week) alongside Definition Church staff, gaining hands-on leadership experience. Your ministry focus will depend on your selected track, but all residents will:
- Be given real-life ministry responsibilities.
- Lead and disciple teams.
- Develop outreach and ministry strategies tailored to their track.
- Engage with the broader Definition Church community through weekend experiences and leadership opportunities.
2. Mentorship
Residents will be paired with a mentor who provides weekly coaching, discipleship, and encouragement throughout the program. This relationship is designed to foster spiritual growth, leadership development, and practical ministry insight.
3. Ministry Training
In partnership with the Cultivate Leadership Institute, residents will engage in weekly training sessions and classes designed to equip them in:
- Leadership and spiritual formation
- Practical ministry skills
- Biblical and theological studies
- Organizational and team leadership
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for highly committed, self-starting individuals who:
- Have a strong desire to pursue full-time vocational ministry.
- Are willing to invest a season of their life into intensive ministry training.
- Want to gain hands-on experience in a thriving local church.
- Are eager to grow spiritually, develop leadership skills, and be mentored.
- Desire to use their gifts to serve the church and advance the Kingdom of God.
Each resident has a unique calling and story, stepping into this season to deepen their faith, develop their gifts, and make an impact in the lives of those they serve. Meet our current residents and learn more about their journey in ministry.
Sarah Quick
Amber Celadon
Wendell Versaille
Lathan Smith
Grace Ann Hundley
Chris Tucker
FAQs
How long is the Residency Program?
The residency program is two years long, and residents can either start in July or January of each year.
What will my source of income be during the Residency Program?
All residents are fully support-funded. This means that residents are responsible for raising their own salary. But don’t panic- we are partnered with an organization that trains, coaches, and manages residents throughout the entire fundraising process. This empowers residents with everything they need to fundraise and serves as a great learning experience for future ministry endeavors.
Will I get a job at Definition after the program?
We cannot promise that you will get a job at Definition after completing the residency program. However, we will do everything we can to help you take your next best step.
I don’t attend Definition. Can I do the program?
Yes! This program is not exclusive to Definition Church members. However, if you are accepted you will be expected to become a member at Definition Church.
Helpful Links
Looking for more information? View these links below or get in touch with us!