Pastoral Resident

First Baptist Greenville celebrates and affirms the calling of followers of Christ into vocational ministry. Our congregation has a rich and diverse history of formal theological education and of nurturing practical ministry exploration and formation through internships and support of theological institutions. Launched in 2016, the Pastoral Residency Program at FBG exists to provide structured, in-depth, practical ministry experience to recent seminary or divinity school graduates called to local church ministry. While seminary or divinity school training provides an excellent foundation of biblical and historical knowledge, students do not always receive training in practical ministry. How does a church budget work? What is it like to lead a funeral? How does one cultivate a healthy spiritual life amidst a busy professional life? Although an emerging pastor will necessarily encounter these facets of ministry in their first call, the congregation may not provide support and growth opportunities for continued learning in a safe or collaborative way. First Baptist Greenville’s Pastoral Residency Program is designed to address both these concerns. The 24-36 month Pastoral Residency Program provides an intentional, supervised ministry experience for a recent seminary or divinity school graduate in a vibrant, positive, supportive, and collaborative environment.