Paid Church Internships Connect AU Students with Local Congregations

NetVUE grant builds leadership, mentorship, and vocational clarity through hands-on ministry

Through the NetVUE Leadership for Communities of Faith grant, Anderson University is strengthening its partnership with local churches while investing in the next generation of leaders. The grant, overseen by Mindy Grubbs, provides paid internship opportunities for AU students at Mercy Road Anderson and Park Place Church of God. The initiative began in April 2025 and will continue through April 2027.

The purpose of the grant is clear. It fosters partnerships between AU and local congregations while cultivating a pipeline of passionate young leaders. By combining theological reflection with hands-on ministry, the program helps students connect their professional skills to their vocational calling. In addition, it responds to a growing need for meaningful relationships between emerging leaders and local faith communities.

When developing the grant, Grubbs and Stephanie Moran selected Mercy Road Anderson and Park Place Church of God for several reasons. Both churches are located near campus, AU students already attend them, and each congregation expressed interest in mentoring interns. At the same time, the churches represent different ministry models and goals, which broadens the learning experience for students. Although Mercy Road Anderson has not yet hosted interns due to capacity challenges, the partnership remains in place with hope for future participation.

Students are already gaining meaningful experience at Park Place. In fall 2025, one intern created strategic promotional materials for their children’s center, counseling center, and community center in an effort to better engage with the Anderson community. She said she learned valuable skills such as communication and coordination that are preparing her for her future career. Another student is designing a six-week Bible series for youth ministry while gaining practical experience in family communication and relational ministry. A third intern supports daily operations at the church’s food pantry, using her Spanish language skills to serve neighbors and explore ways to expand community resources.

Looking ahead, additional internships are planned for summer 2026 and the 2026-27 academic year. One student hopes to align his gifts in worship leadership and music, while another plans to focus on storytelling and videography.

These internships are paid, which makes them especially significant. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers 2024 Student Survey and Job Outlook report, paid interns receive more job offers before graduation and earn higher starting salaries than those who complete unpaid internships or none at all. Employers consistently rank internship experience as a top factor when evaluating candidates.

The impact is already visible. As one intern, Lilly Hymes, shared, “My internship at Park Place youth is opening my eyes to a more holistic perspective of doing ministry. I am able to serve in new capacities and get hands-on experience in relational ministry.”

Rev. Joshua Weiger, youth pastor at Park Place, also sees the value. “This internship opportunity has been a breath of fresh air as our intern has helped us reimagine the why behind our ministry,” he said.

These experiences reflect AU’s mission to educate for a life of faith and service in the church and society. By integrating structured reflection with practical engagement, the program strengthens critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills before students graduate. In doing so, it builds confident leaders prepared to serve wherever they are called.

About Anderson University

Anderson University educates students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 50 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 18 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult, graduate, and online programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized for excellence in business, computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, music, nursing, psychology, social work, and teacher education programs. Established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God, the university remains committed to its Christ-centered mission.