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Pastor Intern Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Pastor Intern information

What is a pastor intern?

Pastor Interns are individuals, often seminary students or recent graduates, who work under the supervision of experienced pastors to gain practical ministry experience. Their responsibilities may include assisting with worship services, teaching, pastoral care, and community outreach. The internship is designed to help them develop essential skills, discern their calling, and prepare for future leadership roles within the church. Pastor Internships typically last several months to a year and may be a requirement for certain ordination paths.

What are the responsibilities of a pastor intern?

As a Pastor Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of pastoral duties, such as helping to plan and lead worship services, supporting youth and community programs, and visiting congregants in need. You'll often work closely with the lead pastor, administrative staff, and volunteer teams, learning how church operations function day-to-day. Collaboration and open communication are key, as you'll participate in meetings, contribute to ministry planning, and sometimes lead small groups or Bible studies. These responsibilities provide hands-on experience and mentorship, preparing you for future leadership roles in ministry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a pastor intern?

To thrive as a Pastor Intern, you need a solid understanding of biblical teachings, basic pastoral care, and often a background in theological studies or seminary education. Familiarity with church management software, presentation tools, and social media platforms is typically beneficial. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and effective communication are essential soft skills for connecting with congregants and supporting church activities. These skills and qualities are vital for fostering spiritual growth, community engagement, and the smooth operation of ministry programs.

What is the difference between Pastor Intern vs Youth Minister?

AspectPastor InternYouth Minister
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a theological degree, some ministry experienceOften has similar educational background, may hold or be pursuing a degree in youth ministry or theology
Work EnvironmentChurch settings, assisting senior pastors, participating in sermons and pastoral dutiesChurch youth groups, planning youth activities, mentoring teenagers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as a training role within churches, often part of seminary programsCommonly employed by churches to focus on youth engagement and programming

While both roles involve working within church environments and may require similar educational backgrounds, a Pastor Intern primarily assists senior pastors with overall pastoral duties, whereas a Youth Minister focuses specifically on youth programs and mentoring teenagers. The Pastor Intern role often serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a full pastor, while a Youth Minister specializes in youth engagement within the church community.

Do pastor interns get paid?

Whether pastor interns are paid depends on the organization and program; some internships are unpaid, especially for training or volunteer experience, while others offer stipends or hourly wages. Paid internships are more common in larger or denominational settings, and compensation may include housing, stipends, or other benefits. It is important to clarify the specific internship's compensation details before applying.

Does a pastor intern get paid?

Whether a pastor intern gets paid depends on the organization and program; some internships are unpaid, especially for training or volunteer experience, while others offer stipends or hourly wages. Paid internships are more common in larger churches or denominational programs that provide financial support to interns. It is important to clarify the compensation details before accepting an internship position.

What does a pastor intern do?

A pastor intern assists with church services, community outreach, and pastoral duties under the supervision of senior pastors. They often gain experience in sermon preparation, counseling, and church administration while developing their ministry skills. The role may require relevant theological training and a commitment to spiritual growth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pastor jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Pastor jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Pastor Intern jobs in Michigan?

For Pastor Intern jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pastor Intern jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Pastor Intern jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Pastor Intern jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Pastor Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Pastor Intern job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Internship, 50% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Associate Campus Minister-St. John Student Center (MSU)

Catholic Diocese of Lansing

East Lansing, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

St. John Catholic Student Center serves Michigan State University students, faculty, staff, and local community members as a part of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish. MSU has the third largest student population in the Big Ten and is known for its agricultural research, three medical schools, study abroad programs, football and basketball teams, and its beautiful campus.
St. John Student Center offers four Masses each Sunday, as well as daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and confession Monday through Friday. The Campus Ministry mentors students who intern and volunteer in various leadership roles, including small group Bible studies, coordinates retreats that frequently attract 50-75 students, and has an Alternative Spring Break program that serves multiple locations across the United States. We strive to nurture a vibrant culture of discipleship with openness to Christian vocations and service to the world.
Position Responsibilities:
1.Discern, form, and accompany student leaders for on-campus Bible studies and evangelization efforts.
2. Plan and facilitate monthly Upper Room gatherings for student leaders' ongoing formation and mission community.
3. Work with a student outreach team to develop goals for campus ministry presence on campus.
4. Provide spiritual guidance and formation opportunities to undergraduate students.
5. Encourage and demonstrate participation in the liturgical life of St. John.
6. Assist with the planning and facilitation of retreats, including the new student retreat IGNITE.
7. Be present and maintain visibility at appropriate campus and parish events.
8. Report to and consult regularly with the Director of Campus Ministry, providing project plans and status reports and participating in periodic performance reviews.
9. The campus minister may have other duties assigned by the Director of Campus Ministry or Pastor.
Requirements:
1.Practicing Catholic in full communion with the Church.
2. M.A. in Catholic Theology, Pastoral Ministry, or a related field.
3. Demonstrated understanding and working knowledge of theological concepts and the development of the spiritual life.
4. Demonstrated familiarity with campus ministry and knowledge of current catechetical processes and resources.
5. Ability to meet the demands of campus life and student availability, including the ability and willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holy days.
6. Strong skills in oral and written communication, leadership and conflict resolution, one-on-one pastoral care, and mentorship of students.
7. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment, while contributing to the implementation of the campus ministry's strategic plans.
8. Ability to organize all aspects of a program (timeline, strategy, recruitment of volunteers, assembly of materials, advertising, management of budget and evaluation of event).
9. Ability to maintain proper ministerial boundaries with college students.
10.Commitment to continuing ministerial and spiritual formation and willingness to attend professional development opportunities as requested by the Director of Campus Ministry.
Preferred Qualifications:
1.Two years of full-time, supervised experience in a college campus ministry, parish, or Catholic non-profit ministry setting.
2. Dynamic, visionary goals for evangelization and spiritual formation of young adults.
3. Familiarity with The Evangelical Catholic's Reach More Mission Training.
4. Familiarity with FOCUS.
Compensation:
Highly competitive entry-level salary with full benefits and professional development funding appropriate to a masters-level lay ecclesial minister will be provided.
Application: Submit a letter of interest, resume, and full contact information for three professional references via email to annas@elcatholics.org.
More information about St. John Catholic Student Center may be found here: stjohnmsu.org
Deadline: July 10, 2026 Position will begin August 1, 2026 but may require a few meetings prior to that date to facilitate the hiring process.
Job Summary
Career Level: Entry Level
Education: Master's Degree
Location: East Lansing, Michigan
Job Type: Full Time
Positions: 1
Salary: Negotiable