At a Glance
- Tasks: Explore your calling in worship and youth ministry while serving the church.
- Company: Godalming Minster, a vibrant community focused on faith and service.
- Benefits: Free accommodation, £74 weekly allowance, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Flexible hours, mentorship, and networking opportunities await you!
- Why this job: Make a real difference while growing in your faith and skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 18-29 with a passion for serving the church.
A gap year opportunity for 18-29 year olds to explore vocational calling in worship and/or youth and children’s ministry. Are you wondering what God is calling you to do? Do you want to spend a year serving the church, growing in your faith, and making a difference?
We are delighted that Godalming Minster has been accepted as a parish placement for Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) and/or Future Youth (FY) participant(s) for September 2026. This national church scheme is a joint programme with the New Wine Discipleship Year.
We are looking for energetic, enthusiastic individuals with a living faith in Jesus who want to explore God’s call on their lives. Whether you are considering ordained ministry, youth and children’s work, or a particular area of ministry such as sung worship, this year-long opportunity offers practical experience, training, and spiritual formation. You need to be between the ages of 18 and 29 on 7th September 2026 to be eligible to apply.
- Date of placement: 7th September 2026 - 25th July 2027
- Funding: This is a non-salaried voluntary placement, however we can offer a £74 per week living allowance for 46 weeks + meals and accommodation with a host in the parish if required.
- Hours: 35 hours a week (flexible) including Sundays and key church festivals. This includes 1 day training every Monday through the Guildford Diocese Foundations in Ministry course, and attendance at the New Wine Discipleship conferences and residentials.
Your placement will be tailored to you, and you will be able to choose to follow the Ministry Experience Scheme OR Future Youth Stream. Depending on which you choose, your gifts and interests, you could expect to be involved in:
- Worship & Preaching: Involvement in Sunday services and daily church life, particularly in our developing contemporary services in the morning and evening.
- Digital & Events: Developing digital media, use of AV and helping organise events.
- Youth & Children’s Work: Assisting with Sunday schools, school chaplaincy, youth groups and outreach events like Away Days and Holiday Clubs.
All participants on either MES or FY are likely to be involved with:
- Social Action: Working with community projects and vulnerable people in Godalming town centre and in the Franklyn Road vicinity.
What We Offer:
- Fully Funded Year: Free accommodation with a host family in the parish and basic living expenses (£74 per week for 46 weeks) are included.
- Theological Training and Study: Tailored theological training, both within the parish and through FiM and the New Wine Discipleship Year.
- Mentorship: Support from church leaders and fellow participants.
- Networking: Opportunities to meet others on the scheme at national conferences.
Who We Are Looking For:
- A committed Christian with a desire to serve the church.
- Flexible and enthusiastic individuals who are able to take initiative.
- Openness to learning and exploring vocation in a multi-location setting.
Then get in touch with the Rector Chris Lion who can help decide whether a placement with Godalming Minster would be right for you. He’ll also be able to guide you through the application process. Email: chris.lion@godalmingminster.org or phone: 01483 421267.
Closing Date: 12 noon on Tuesday 30 June 2026
Interviews: week commencing 6 July 2026
Safer Recruitment: Please note that all participants will be required to hold an enhanced DBS disclosure certificate (applied for by Godalming Minster when you have accepted your placement), undertake the appropriate Church of England Safeguarding training, and work within the policy and procedures of Godalming Minster's Safeguarding Policy. Ensuring that children and young people as well as adults are kept safe whilst in our care is an integral part of our church life.
Ministry Experience Scheme / Future Youth Participant | Godalming Minster employer: Cofeguildford
Godalming Minster offers a unique and enriching opportunity for young adults aged 18-29 to explore their vocational calling in a supportive and faith-driven environment. Participants in the Ministry Experience Scheme or Future Youth programme will benefit from tailored theological training, mentorship from experienced church leaders, and the chance to engage in meaningful community service, all while enjoying free accommodation and a living allowance. This is not just a placement; it's a transformative year of personal and spiritual growth in a vibrant church community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ministry Experience Scheme / Future Youth Participant | Godalming Minster
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the church community before applying! Attend services, join events, and chat with current members. This will not only help you understand the vibe but also show your genuine interest in being part of Godalming Minster.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just wait for the application process to start; reach out to Chris Lion early! Ask questions about the placement and express your enthusiasm. Building that connection can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by reflecting on your faith journey and how it aligns with the ministry experience. Think about specific examples of how you've served or led in your community—this will help you shine during the interview!
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to engage with the digital side of ministry, which is super important these days.
We think you need these skills to ace Ministry Experience Scheme / Future Youth Participant | Godalming Minster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your thoughts and experiences that have shaped your faith journey.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to align your skills and interests with what we’re looking for in the Ministry Experience Scheme or Future Youth roles. Highlight any relevant experiences, whether it’s in worship, youth work, or community service, to show us why you’d be a great fit!
Ask Questions:If you’re unsure about anything in the application process, reach out! Contact Chris Lion for guidance. It shows initiative and helps us understand your genuine interest in the placement.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything and ensures you don’t miss any important details. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cofeguildford
✨Know Your Calling
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your faith journey and what God is calling you to do. Be ready to share your personal experiences and how they relate to the Ministry Experience Scheme or Future Youth Participant role. This will show your genuine enthusiasm and commitment.
✨Research Godalming Minster
Familiarise yourself with Godalming Minster's mission, values, and community activities. Understanding their approach to worship, youth, and children's ministry will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the training opportunities, the types of projects you'll be involved in, or how they support participants in their spiritual growth. Asking questions shows your interest and engagement.
✨Show Your Flexibility
Highlight your willingness to adapt and learn in a multi-location setting. Share examples from your past where you've taken initiative or worked in diverse environments. This will reassure them that you're ready for the dynamic nature of this placement.
