Jubilee Fellows participate in a lively program. They take a seminar course which studies the vision, lives, and theologies of those who have made great contributions to the Christian church through the centuries. They learn about spiritual disciplines, such as personal and communal prayer, and reading and memorizing scripture. They read a variety of books, both historical and contemporary, listen to guest speakers, and do a bit of personal research on a Christian leader of their choosing.
Following the course, Jubilee Fellows set out on ten-week summer internships in local congregations. This component of the program is often the highlight for students, providing them with first-hand experience in the day to day life of a church. "I feel more passionate, committed, focused, and refreshed to serve others," says former Jubilee Fellow Josh Song. "This internship served as a reawakening of passion for the work of the Kingdom of God in my life."
We also pair Fellows with strong mentors on the pastoral staff of the internship churches. The mentors will walk alongside the Fellows, not only providing them with work to do, but also with honest feedback on their performance, spiritual direction and encouragement, and the opportunity to learn from someone working daily in church ministry.
Upon returning, Jubilee Fellows participate in a ministry-related service initiative at Calvin or in their local congregation. Students take what they have learned from their internships and find creative ways to use their gifts, whether it's helping Calvin students participate in church life in Grand Rapids, leading a small group, or partnering with existing programs on campus.