Ministry is not learned only in classrooms. It is learned in relationships, in congregational life, in leadership meetings, in moments of care and conflict, and in the faithful work of showing up for people week after week. CBF North Carolina is deeply committed to nurturing the calling of individuals and to supporting congregations as they grow in health, resilience, and faithfulness. The Field Education Residency Program brings these two commitments together by creating formative ministry experiences that serve both emerging leaders and local churches.

This program exists to help students bridge the gap between theological education and real congregational ministry. It offers more than financial support—it offers intentional formation, guided practice, and space to grow as a minister-in-formation within the life of a real church or ministry setting.  Download a brochure here.

For students discerning a call to congregational leadership, this program provides:

  • Real experience rooted in congregational life
  • Formation that honors both conviction and compassion
  • Supportive community and mentoring
  • Space to grow in confidence, competence, and vocational clarity

Students receive a $10,000 stipend for up to 15 hours of ministry per week, September to mid-May.

Explore • Practice • Lead • Thrive

Through this program, students are:

  • Paired with CBF partner congregations and organizations committed to teaching ministry, not just assigning tasks
  • Supported financially so formation is not limited by economic pressure
  • Invited into the rhythms of congregational life, including leadership and decision-making spaces
  • Guided through supervision, reflection, and cohort learning alongside peers and mentors

Students also learn one of the most essential—and often under-taught—dimensions of ministry: how to care faithfully for people within congregations that hold a range of theological convictions, histories, and hopes.

Next Steps

  • Pray for the opportunity to lead, explore, practice, and thrive.
  • Consider your learning objectives, growing edges, and strengths.
  • Officially apply for the Field Education Residency.
  • Applications reviewed by the CBFNC Theological Team
  • Accepted students are paired with CBFNC congregations by mid-August.
  • Residents begin the shared learning cohort’s monthly online meeting by the end of August.

Ready to apply?  Click HERE.

Engage With CBF North Carolina

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COLLEGIATE MINISTRY
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ALL-STATE YOUTH CHOIR
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GROWING YOUNG
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THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS