Student Minister: Gospel Leadership Trainee

STUDENT MINISTRY TRAINING GOSPEL LEADERS IN MINISTRY

Real Ministry. Real Training.

At St Stephen’s Presbyterian Church, our mission is to make and mature disciples of Jesus together, for the glory of God and the good of the world.

As part of this mission, we offer a Student Minister role to those studying at theological college who are eager to be equipped for a lifetime of gospel ministry. We want to raise up faithful leaders who will serve Christ in local churches across Australia and the world.

What is a Student Ministry?

The Student Minister role at St Stephen’s is a two-year, hands‑on ministry training position for theological students. It offers structured opportunities to grow in Bible teaching, leadership, and pastoral care within a reformed evangelical church. Over the two years, Student Ministers serve in key ministry areas, receive regular training and supervision, and are equipped for a lifetime of faithful gospel ministry.

• A growing love for Jesus and his people
• A deep dependence on God in prayer and a strong grasp of the gospel
• A willingness to handle and teach God’s word with clarity and care
• A servant‑hearted, team‑oriented approach to leadership
• A desire to grow in pastoral wisdom and ministry competency under supervision

• Lead or co‑lead a ministry area within the church
• Be an active member or leader of a Growth Group
• Be present and involved in the weekly life of the church
• Model godly character, humility, and teachability in all areas of service

• Regularly attend Sunday services
• Join and participate in a Growth Group
• Serve in a ministry team where appropriate

At St Stephen’s, we train future gospel workers through active involvement in church life, personal coaching, and practical ministry as they prepare for a lifetime of faithful service.

Student Ministers are given opportunities to teach the Bible in a range of contexts, including youth group, Growth Groups, and Sunday services. Male students are offered 4 preaching opportunities during Sunday services across the year.

For each sermon, you will be coached by the Minister through a structured process.

This feedback‑rich environment aims to sharpen your preaching skills and ground you in faithful, clear, and engaging Bible teaching.

Each week, Student Ministers Meet For Theological And Practical Training Sessions. These Are Primarily Led By The Senior Minister Or Other Ministry Staff, Covering Topics Such As

• Leading Sunday services and special events (e.g. funerals, weddings)
• Pastoral care and congregational prayer
• Church leadership training (eldership, minister responsibilities, team ministry, women’s ministry)
• Ministry life and personal development (pastor’s rhythms, stress management)
• Organisational and planning skills (running meetings, AGMs, budgeting, ministry scaling)
• Participation in church-wide events (Holiday Club, camps)
• Integration and community outreach (welcoming new members and engaging with the local community)

We believe that one of the gaps in ministry training today is leadership – particularly the ability to lead teams well. Student Ministers at St Stephen’s are expected to take responsibility for a key ministry area or team, learning to lead others in purpose-driven, gospel-shaped ministry.

• Kids Church or Youth Ministry
• Membership & Welcoming
• Outreach & Evangelism
• Sunday Service Teams (hosting, music, tech)
• Growth Group

You’ll be coached in leading teams, setting direction, developing others, and working towards ministry outcomes with godly character and practical competence.

We’d love to hear from you! Please send us your resume along with a short reflection on your life and ministry journey. Reach out directly to our Senior Minister to start the conversation.

A two-year, full-time ministry apprenticeship that equips you for gospel ministry through hands‑on training and discipleship in a local church setting.

A one-year, one‑day‑a‑week training program designed to equip everyday Christians for gospel-shaped service through mentoring, theological study, and hands‑on ministry experience.

For theological students seeking practical ministry and leadership training in the local church setting of St Stephen’s Presbyterian Church.