STUDENT MINISTRY
TRAINING GOSPEL LEADERS IN MINISTRY
Real Ministry. Real Training.
At St Stephen’s Presbyterian Church, our mission is to make and mature disciples of Jesus together, for the glory of God and the good of the world.
As part of this mission, we offer a Student Minister role to those studying at theological college who are eager to be equipped for a lifetime of gospel ministry. We want to raise up faithful leaders who will serve Christ in local churches across Australia and the world.
What is a Student Ministry?
The Student Minister role at St Stephen’s is a two-year, hands-on ministry training position for theological students. It offers structured opportunities to grow in Bible teaching, leadership, and pastoral care within a reformed evangelical church. Over the two years, Student Ministers serve in key ministry areas, receive regular training and supervision, and are equipped for a lifetime of faithful gospel ministry.
We’re looking for students who demonstrate:
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A growing love for Jesus and his people
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A deep dependence on God in prayer and a strong grasp of the gospel
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A willingness to handle and teach God’s word with clarity and care
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A servant-hearted, team-oriented approach to leadership
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A desire to grow in pastoral wisdom and ministry competency under supervision
Your Commitment
As a Student Minister at St Stephen’s, you are expected to:
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Lead or co-lead a ministry area within the church
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Be an active member or leader of a Growth Group
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Be present and involved in the weekly life of the church
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Model godly character, humility, and teachability in all areas of service
If married, your spouse is encouraged to:
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Regularly attend Sunday services
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Join and participate in a Growth Group
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Serve in a ministry team where appropriate
Two Years to Grow, Lead, Preach
At St Stephen’s, we train future gospel workers through active involvement in church life, personal coaching, and practical ministry as they prepare for a lifetime of faithful service.
Preaching Training
Student Ministers are given opportunities to teach the Bible in a range of contexts, including youth group, Growth Groups, and Sunday services. Male students are offered 4 preaching opportunities during Sunday services across the year.
For each sermon, you will be coached by the Minister through a structured process.
This feedback-rich environment aims to sharpen your preaching skills and ground you in faithful, clear, and engaging Bible teaching.
Weekly Training
Each week, Student Ministers meet for theological and practical training sessions. These are primarily led by the Senior Minister or other ministry staff, covering topics such as:
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Leading Sunday services and special events (e.g. funerals, weddings)
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Pastoral care and congregational prayer
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Church leadership training (eldership, minister responsibilities, team ministry, women’s ministry)
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Ministry life and personal development (pastor’s rhythms, stress management)
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Organisational and planning skills (running meetings, AGMs, budgeting, ministry scaling)
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Participation in church-wide events (Holiday Club, camps)
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Integration and community outreach (welcoming new members and engaging with the local community)
Ministry Leadership
We believe that one of the gaps in ministry training today is leadership - particularly the ability to lead teams well. Student Ministers at St Stephen’s are expected to take responsibility for a key ministry area or team, learning to lead others in purpose-driven, gospel-shaped ministry.
Team leadership opportunities may include:
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Kids Church or Youth Ministry
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Membership & Welcoming
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Outreach & Evangelism
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Sunday Service Teams (hosting, music, tech)
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Growth Group
You’ll be coached in leading teams, setting direction, developing others, and working towards ministry outcomes with godly character and practical competence.