What is Pastoral Residency?
The Park Community Church Pastoral Residency is an apprenticeship-based program that equips emerging leaders for urban pastoral ministry and church planting. Located in Chicago, the program is designed for seminary graduates and current students who are already pursuing a call to ministry. The residency combines hands-on leadership experience, pastoral mentoring, theological development, and cohort-based training within Park’s family of churches.
Residents serve in a local Park congregation while learning from experienced pastors and gaining exposure to the diverse ministry opportunities and challenges of urban ministry. More than a training program or an internship, the Park residency is an intentional way to raise up future pastors, church planters, and ministry leaders prepared to serve the church and beyond.
Residents serve in a local Park congregation while learning from experienced pastors and gaining exposure to the diverse ministry opportunities and challenges of urban ministry. More than a training program or an internship, the Park residency is an intentional way to raise up future pastors, church planters, and ministry leaders prepared to serve the church and beyond.
Core Componants
Pastoral Apprenticeship
Residents are placed under the direct supervision of a pastor and meet regularly for mentorship, feedback, and formation. This relationship is central to the program.
Ministry Leadership
Residents are empowered to lead in a defined area of ministry at their local church. This may include planning and executing a specific ministry and developing leaders.
Cohort Training
All residents will participate in bi-weekly cohort gatherings with Park pastors and leaders for:
- Teaching and pastoral development
- Preaching labs
- Prayer and spiritual formation
- Peer learning and community
Preaching Development
Residents will have multiple opportunities to preach with structured feedback, training, and coaching.
Who Should Apply
This residency is designed for individuals who:
This program is not designed for those who are exploring ministry for the first time, but for those seeking preparation for vocational pastoral leadership.
- Are currently enrolled in or have completed theological or ministry training (seminary highly preferred)
- Have a clear sense of calling to pastoral ministry
- Are already actively serving in a local church
This program is not designed for those who are exploring ministry for the first time, but for those seeking preparation for vocational pastoral leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will I serve as a resident?
Each resident applies or is assigned to a “Home Park Location,” where they serve under the leadership of local pastors. Twice per month, Park residents from across the city will participate in a collective cohort training.
How long is the residency?
The residency runs for 10 months, from September through June.
Is the residency full-time or part-time?
For now, first-year residents will be hired as part-time employees (20-30 hours/ week). Second-year residents will be full-time.
Is the residency paid?
Yes - Residents will be hired and compensated as 1099 employees.
What happens after the residency?
The goal of the Park Pastoral Residency is to prepare men for long-term, faithful pastoral ministry. By the end of the program, residents should be equipped for pastoral roles, church planting, ministry leadership, or further theological training with greater clarity and readiness.