Ministry Education & Formation

Pastoral Residency Program

accepting Applications for 2026 Residency

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.

a

Program Description

Click to view



Pastoral Residency Application

View Application

The Pastoral Resident is a full-time member of the First Baptist Ministerial Staff. The Resident will be immersed in the full experience of pastoral life and practical ministry, including church administration, worship leadership, teaching, pastoral care, community engagement, experience with student ministry, long-term planning and individual spiritual development. At the close of the second residency year, the Resident will be assisted in developing a professional resume, discerning and transitioning into their next pastoral call.

Teaching Congregation

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. We welcomed our latest resident in summer 2020.

Applying for our Pastoral Residency Program

Applications for the 2026 Pastoral Residency are due by November 1, 2025.

Residents serve for 24-36 months depending on the Resident’s needs. The residency is a full-time, in-person position in Greenville, South Carolina. Residents receive a salary and benefits.

To apply, download the Pastoral Residency Application linked above and follow the submission instructions. Questions? Contact Camille Loomis Rehnborg, Subject: Pastoral Residency Program.

Youth Mentoring Team

First Baptist’s Youth Mentoring Team will be staffed by college students who have completed at the minimum their first year of school. Youth Mentors’ primary responsibility and focus is working closely with the youth ministry staff, youth and their families. Preference in selection will be given to college students who have shown genuine interest and commitment to the First Baptist Greenville Youth Ministry.