The Ministry Training Scheme at St Bart’s
We have now had over 20 ministry trainees for one or two years since 2007 and are now looking to appoint for one year from September (with the possibility of a further year by mutual agreement). The St Bart’s Ministry Training Scheme has been developed to provide a more intensive training in gospel ministry for those showing leadership potential. As with many similar schemes, time is divided between three areas: a third of the time will be theological/Biblical training, a third will be ministry training; and a third will be practical. Running through all three areas will be the development of godly character.
We believe trainees need about £10,000 per year (which is similar to the living costs for a postgraduate student in Bath recommended by Bath University). The church is able to offer a £5000 grant towards this. If trainees have individuals willing to support them financially, payments can be made through ‘Stewardship’, allowing tax payers to make use of Gift Aid – this is a method approved by the Inland Revenue and the tax recovered can be passed on subject to certain conditions. Obtaining financial support from friends and family can be an enriching process as such support will usually involve people praying for the trainee, and is a good Biblical practice of seeking funding for Gospel ministry. We will offer help in the process of seeking financial support, and also point trainees in the direction of grant-awarding trusts. The trainee will be expected to find their own accommodation as close to the church as possible, but we are able to help in that process.
Our existing and previous trainees will be very happy to talk with you about the role and we can put you in touch with them. If you are interested and would like full details, do contact Charlie Ward to arrange an informal chat.
Charlie Ward (Assistant Minister)
charlie@stbartsbath.org
St. Bartholomew’s Church Office
1 King Edward Road
Bath
BA2
We anticipate interviewing candidates at a mutually convenient time.
