The internship provides practical experience to integrate theology, academics, leadership, and skills with the needs of a ministry setting.  A deaconess/deacon intern provides your organization an opportunity to have additional staffing, try out new ministries, consider future staffing options, and equip a deaconess/deacon for service.

Interns

• Interns range in age (20-60+ years) and in skills and experience
• Interns have completed several theology courses, nine months of supervised field work, and may have completed one quarter of CPE or equivalent

Settings

• Church, institution or agency
• May be done with student's primary profession (e.g., nursing, teaching, social work)

Cost

• Stipend (amounts, vary, please be mindful of the cost of living in your area)
• Health insurance
• Auto allowance and contiuning education may be included
• Vacation and time for deaconess events

Responsibilities

• Tasks vary according to the needs of the ministry setting and the skills and interests of the intern (the development of a job description is encouraged)
• Typically, a one-year, full-time commitment is expected
• The internship may begin at a mutually conveient time for the work setting and the intern

Supervision

• The work setting will designate a professional to train and guide the intern, at least one hour per week
• Set goals, review and complete regular evaluations
• Plan and reflect on activities
• Study and pray together

Deaconess Involvement

• The intern identifies a support team
• In addition to the work supervisor, the intern support team may include at least one deaconess, a Lutheran professional in ministry, and/or others who serve in a similar capacity
• The intern regularly participates in the deaconess area conference
• The intern attends the deaconess annual meeting (typically four days in the summer)

LDA Support (Director of Education and Formation)

• Visits the intern/work setting at least once during the year
• Meets with the intern, supervisor and others involved in the internship
• Observes the intern in action
• Collects and responds to evaluations
• Offers ideas for supervision, goal-setting and problem-solving (upon request)

Reports

• Work supervisor:  three reports/year
• Intern support team:  two reports/year
• Intern:  four reports/year and reflections as noted in the individual formation covenant

For more information or to request an intern application, contact deacserv@valpo.edu.