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Reformed Theological Seminary

RTS Jackson Practical Experience

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Real Ministry. Real Growth.

At RTS Jackson, we believe seminary should not only inform your mind but also transform your ability to shepherd others. Our internships and preaching circuit opportunities provide immersive, hands-on ministry experience to prepare you for pastoral leadership.

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Ministry Internships

Internships at RTS Jackson give students the opportunity to serve in a local church while gaining hands-on ministry experience under the guidance of a seasoned pastor. Students are encouraged to pursue internships early in their seminary journey to help apply what they’re learning in the classroom.

 
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Preaching Circuit

Each week, RTS Jackson students travel to small and rural churches across Mississippi to provide pulpit supply. Through the preaching circuit, students hone their sermon preparation and delivery skills while blessing congregations that don’t have a regular pastor.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the goals of an internship?

RTS internships are designed to give students a well-rounded ministry experience. Each internship should offer opportunities to grow in:

  1. Sermon preparation and preaching

  2. Teaching (Sunday School, small groups, etc.)

  3. Evangelism and outreach

  4. Pastoral care and counseling

  5. Leadership and administration

  6. Worship planning and leadership

How do I arrange an internship?

Students are responsible for finding and coordinating their own internship with a local church. Once a plan is in place, it must be approved by the Dean of Students. Internships typically involve regular mentoring and feedback from a supervising pastor or elder.

Is there a list of churches that offer internships?

The Dean of Students Office maintains a list of churches that regularly host interns. Here are just a few examples:

Jackson Metro Area:

  • First Presbyterian Church – Jackson, MS

  • Highlands Presbyterian Church – Ridgeland, MS

  • Madison Heights Church – Madison, MS

  • Pear Orchard Presbyterian Church – Ridgeland, MS

  • Redeemer Church – Jackson, MS

  • Providence Presbyterian Church – Clinton, MS

Beyond Jackson:

  • Grace Presbyterian Church – Starkville, MS

  • Christ Presbyterian Church – Oxford, MS

  • Westminster Presbyterian Church – Greenwood, MS

  • Main Street Presbyterian Church – Columbus, MS

 

How does the Preaching Circuit work?

Once approved, students are scheduled to preach at churches throughout Mississippi on a rotating basis. This gives students regular preaching opportunities while meeting the weekly needs of congregations without a full-time pastor. Coordination is handled through the Dean of Students Office.

Which churches participate in the Preaching Circuit?

Here are a few of the churches currently involved:

  • Antioch Presbyterian Church – Bentonia, MS

  • Bethesda Presbyterian Church – Edwards, MS

  • Ebenezer ARP Church – Sandhill, MS

  • First Presbyterian Church – Louisville, MS

  • Grace Chapel Presbyterian Church – Madison, MS

  • Union Church Presbyterian Church – Union Church, MS

A complete and updated list is available through the Dean of Students.

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

Any MDiv student who has completed a semester of classes at RTS Jackson can sign up to be on the circuit, traveling to different churches. Those who wish to pursue pulpit supply—which involves preaching more than once a month at the same church—must be approved by the presbytery. Students interested in either opportunity should contact the Dean of Students Office to learn more and begin the process.