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Reformed Theological Seminary

RTS Charlotte Practical Experience

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Equipped to Plant. Ready to Shepherd.

At RTS Charlotte, practical ministry is at the heart of pastoral preparation. Through immersive church planting internships and mentorship opportunities, students are trained to lead with conviction, shepherd with wisdom, and bring the hope of the gospel to communities near and far.

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Ministry Internships

RTS Charlotte offers students the opportunity to grow through hands-on ministry experience, especially in the context of church planting. Through partnerships with seasoned planters and local churches, students are placed in dynamic environments where they can apply what they’re learning in the classroom to real-life ministry. Whether discerning a call to plant or serve in an established church, these internships cultivate spiritual maturity, leadership, and gospel effectiveness.

 
Pastor teaching a class at RTS
The Center for Church Planting

At the RTS Charlotte Center for Church Planting, students are trained to plant and lead biblical, Reformed churches that transform communities. The Center emphasizes eight core values—including reformed theology, missions, leadership development, and church health—and offers a rich ecosystem of training, mentoring, and fellowship. In a post-Christian world, the need for faithful, winsome church planters is great—and RTS Charlotte is strategically placed to meet that need.

 
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Field Education

All MDiv students at RTS are required to have 400 hours of Field Education during their time in seminary. The 400-hour requirement may be met through a 9-12 month part-time internship (10-15 hours per week), a summer intensive (40 hours per week), or other possible arrangements negotiated between the student, church, and Field Education Director.

Students also have the opportunity to preach through the Student Pulpit Supply List, which connects RTS Charlotte students with area churches seeking pulpit supply.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the goals of an internship?

Internships through RTS Charlotte—especially those tied to the Center for Church Planting—are designed to develop:

  • Reformed theological conviction in the context of church design and leadership

  • Personal holiness as a foundation for healthy leadership

  • Mission-mindedness, both locally and globally

  • Cross-cultural and ethnic sensitivity in church multiplication

  • Pastoral care through active shepherding and discipleship

  • Leadership development with an emphasis on reproducing future leaders

  • Church health, emphasizing depth and spiritual vitality

  • A winsome witness, engaging the community with Gospel-centered hope

How do I arrange an internship?

Students typically connect with local church plants through RTS Charlotte’s extensive network. Most internships are coordinated in partnership with the Center for Church Planting and involve regular mentorship with an experienced pastor or planter. Interested students can speak with faculty or staff to begin the placement process.

Are there specific churches that offer internships?

RTS Charlotte partners with a variety of local church plants and ministries to provide internship and mentoring opportunities. While there isn’t a public list of participating churches, students are typically paired with an approved area church planter as part of their involvement with the Center for Church Planting. To explore available internship opportunities, students should reach out to the Center or the Dean of Students for current placement guidance.

How does the Center for Church Planting work?

The Center for Church Planting creates an intentional community for future planters. Students enrolled in the Center:

  • Participate in regular cohort meetings with active church planters

  • Attend conferences and lectures on theology and practice of church planting

  • Engage in mentorship and community formation

  • Have the opportunity to attend assessment events like the Church Planter Readiness Seminar (in partnership with RTS and the PCA’s Mission to North America)
    Spouses are encouraged to join events, fostering holistic preparation for planting.

 

How do I get started?

Students interested in church planting will find numerous opportunities for training, mentorship, and ministry experience through RTS Charlotte’s Center for Church Planting. Those enrolled in the program are typically assigned a church planter for regular mentoring. For more details about participation and available opportunities, students are encouraged to consult with RTS Charlotte faculty or staff.

 

How do I apply for the Preaching Circuit or an internship?

Students interested in either opportunity should contact the Dean of Students Office to learn more and begin the process. You'll receive guidance on expectations, scheduling, and best practices for success in ministry settings.

How does Field Education work, and are there preaching opportunities for students?

All MDiv students at RTS Charlotte are required to complete two supervised internships, each lasting at least six months with 8–10 hours per week of ministry involvement. Students must meet with the Director of Field Education to submit a Field Education Proposal form before starting their internship. Each internship is guided by a mentor and includes regular feedback and evaluation.

In addition to internships, students can gain preaching experience through the Student Pulpit Supply List, which connects them with area churches in need of Sunday pulpit supply.