We aspire to equip God’s people in their service to the Lord, and are excited about being involved in God's work to riase up future leaders for His church.
The Ministry Trainee Scheme (MTS) provides the chance to see what it’s like to serve in a full-time capacity in a local church. our aim is that trainees grow in their love and knowledge of the Lord Jesus while they test their suitability for Christian ministry life in a supportive team environment.
MTS seeks to equip Trainees for a lifetime of serving the Lord Jesus in both the church and the world. The priority of the scheme is the development of christian character that both honours the Lord and is in line with the expectations of leaders in a local church, as set out in the pastroal epistles. We are committed to helping Trainees grow in grace, in love and in hope and to equiping them to serve him in a variety of different contexts.
Trainees are asked to maintain and manage their own weekly schedule, which will initially comprise 48 hours of ministry and training each week. Trainees are provided ample flexibility in establishing their schedules, which are reviewed as the year progresses in accordance with each individuals capacity.
Weekly activities revolve around three general categories – training, serving and word ministry.
The lion’s share of the Trainees’ time through the week is devoted to word ministry – where they prepare teaching materials, spend time at ministry events (including Sunday services and Bible study groups), and meet one-on-one with other students interested in learning about the Gospel.
Trainees dedicate the remainder of their time through the week to private study, preparation of ministry events, practically serving the church, personal administration and actively participating in church staff meetings.
Ministry Trainees participate in a training course provided by the North East Gospel Partnership, where they work through books of the Bible, a detailed overview of the Bible’s teachings, and consider what ministry looks like in different settings. Additionally, we organise two weekly classes - one focused on how to preach and teach, the other focused on doctrines. The Trainees receive feedback on talks they’ve prepared and learn practical ministry skills while exploring foundational doctrines of the church.
We seek to maintain transparency and provide accountability through regular monthly reviews, in which students receive constructive feedback based on the “Desirable Attributes” document.
While Trainees are considered voluntary workers, they're commitment to the church is outlined in a formal agreement that defines grievance and disciplinary procedures.
Trainees are expected to self-finance through Stewardship, although they can apply to the church for support with their fundraising. To enquire, send an email to .
The deadline for the first round of applications for September 2026 is the end of November 2025. Completed applications should be submitted by email at office@christchurchdurham.org.