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In the first week of September, the brand-new cohort of Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) interns started their year by attending a launch residential at the Chellington Centre in Bedfordshire.
The Ministry Experience Scheme is part of a national initiative for anyone aged 18 to 30 who is discerning God's call on their life and would like to explore their unique gifts and skills through Christian ministry and leadership experience. The launch residential is a chance for the interns to get to know one another through a series of team building activities and teaching sessions. They are also able to enjoy great food, walks in the countryside and worship till late at night.
New intern Liv-Astrid Cowne Gemmell, said ‘I signed up for MES because I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and explore my faith through this new experience.’
For over 14 years, the Peterborough MES has provided a broad ministry experience for young adults, rooted in a local Church of England parish alongside an experienced placement supervisor. Each person’s year looks different but will be formed around practical experience, such as chaplaincy, social justice ministry, preaching and Sunday services, digital media, pastoral visiting, event organisation, evangelism, and children and youth work. The year also includes theological study which can be tailored for each individual, whether they have no prior experience or already have a theology degree.
New intern, Daniel Hunt said, ‘I'm hoping to gain a wide range of experience across my placement church, the deanery and the Diocese. I'm really looking forward to all that this year will have to offer.’
With much more planned for the internship year including a mid-year retreat, national MES conference and the Peterborough Diocese Explore Day, the interns will certainly have a busy year, and we wish them well on their new adventure.