DCC Residency Program

Raising up the next generation of ministry leaders

Are you a recent college graduate with a heart for ministry and a desire to share the Gospel? The DCC Residency is a one-year journey designed to equip you for a lifetime of impactful service in vocational ministry.

Rooted in the model Jesus gave us—praying for laborers and equipping them for the work of the Gospel—this transformational program will launch your ministry career with purpose and confidence.

EQUIP: Grow spiritually, personally, and professionally through intentional mentorship, discipleship, and leadership training. You’ll gain the tools to thrive and lead effectively in any ministry setting.

TRAIN: Dive deep into your area of ministry—whether it’s college, youth, worship, or kids ministry. Gain invaluable, hands-on experience and leadership opportunities tailored to your calling.

DEVELOP: Go beyond your focus area to engage in every aspect of church ministry—leading teams, planning events, evangalizing, making hospital visits, counseling, teaching, mission trips, and more. This well-rounded training ensures you’re prepared for wherever God leads you.

The Residency Program is more than a year of ministry—it’s the foundation for a lifetime of faithful service.

FAQ’s

  • Participants commit to 40 hours per week, which includes:

    • Mentorship - 2 hours a week

    • Leadership Development - 2 hours a week

    • Christian Education - 6 hours a week

    • Specific Ministry Tasks - 30 hours a week

  • The process has three stages:

    1. Application Review

    2. First-Round Interviews

    3. Second-Round Interviews

    While all applications are reviewed, not all applicants will move forward to the interview stage.

    Key Dates:

    • Application Deadline: January 31, 2025

    • Acceptance Notifications: February 25, 2025

    • Fund-Raising Training: March/April 2025

    • Fund-Raising Period: April – July 2025

    Residency Orientation: August 1, 2025

  • Residents partner with Downtown Community Church by raising their own financial support for the residency. We provide you with the tools and training needed to succeed in this effort. This experience will not only prepare you for the program but also equip you for future roles that may involve fund-raising, such as church planting or leading a ministry.

  • We focus on three key areas of development:

    1. Spiritual, Emotional, and Relational Health: Personal discipleship, emotional intelligence (EQ), and relational growth.

    2. Theological and Biblical Knowledge: Seminary-level theological training through Southeastern University

    3. Leadership and Communication Skills: Practical tools for leading teams, communicating effectively, and solving problems.

    This growth is cultivated through personal and professional mentoring, structured courses, and real-world ministry experience with ongoing feedback.

    • A deep commitment to personal and spiritual growth, discipleship, and ministry.

    • Access to your own car and laptop.

  • Churches use a variety of terms like interns, associates, and apprentices to describe similar roles. A helpful analogy comes from the medical field: interns assist by handing tools to doctors, while residents actively perform the work of a doctor. As a resident, you’ll take on meaningful, hands-on ministry responsibilities, growing as a leader while making a real impact.

  • Applicants are responsible for securing their own housing in Tallahassee.