Purpose

Our purpose is to develop ministry leaders who are biblically grounded, spiritually mature, and equipped to serve the Church with passion and excellence. Through a combination of theological teaching, hands-on ministry experience, and intentional leadership development, participants will gain the tools necessary to pursue a lifelong ministry impact.

First Year Resident

Hours: 15-20 hours/week

Compensation: Unpaid

Ministry Areas:
- Worship
- Production
- OC Kids
- Orchard Student Ministry
- Care Ministry
- Guest Services
- Multimedia

Second Year Resident

Hours: Full-time or Part-time

Compensation: Paid position

Ministry Areas:
- Worship
- Production
- OC Kids
- Orchard Student Ministry
- Care Ministry
- Guest Services
- Multimedia

*Second Year Residency is offered to leaders who show exceptional growth and calling.

Components of the Program

Wednesday Class Sessions 

  • Bible teaching and theological instruction

  • Leadership development and ministry training

  • Strategic planning and preparation for Sunday and midweek ministry

Book Study & Personal Development

  • Read 1-2 leadership or ministry books per semester

  • Participate in discussions or submit reflections

  • Apply learnings to their current ministry context

Primary Ministry Placement

  • Serve under a ministry director

  • Contribute to weekly ministry goals and events

  • Grow through mentorship, feedback, and collaboration

Community Outreach Projects

  • Work with the Outreach Lead to identify local needs

  • Collaborate as a team to design and execute projects

  • Debrief and present outcomes to leadership

Sunday Rotations Across Ministries

  • Guest Services (greeting, check-in)

  • Kids & Students (classroom support, small groups, curriculum prep)

  • Production & Worship (tech setup, media, worship team support)

  • Care Ministry (prayer, follow-up, pastoral care support)

    These rotations help Residents:

  • See how departments work together to serve people

  • Discover their strengths in various ministry areas

  • Understand the Sunday service as a team effort

Office & Administrative Support

  • Meeting prep and planning

  • Communication with volunteers and leaders

  • Event logistics and administrative systems

Coaching & Mentorship

  • One-on-one coaching meetings with staff

  • Mid-semester and end-of-semester check-ins

  • Spiritual mentoring to encourage personal growth

Orchard Ministry Institute Outcomes

Graduates of OMI will:

  • Be grounded in Scripture and confident in their calling

  • Possess hands-on ministry and leadership experience

  • Understand how to lead teams and communicate effectively

  • Be equipped for long-term service in vocational or volunteer ministry

  • Build meaningful relationships with mentors and ministry leaders

FAQs

How long is the program?
Each term is semester-based (Fall & Spring), with the option for a summer intensive. Residencies typically run for nine months (August-May).

Who can apply?
Young adults (18+), college students, or recent grads with a heart for ministry.

How do I apply?
Applications open. Interviews and ministry placement follow.

QUESTIONS?

We would love to hear from you!

Megan Hart: Orchard Ministry Institute Coordinator