Rocky Mountain Mission
Interested?
If you are interested in the internship program email us today at leader@campus-ministry.org
The Blackfeet Reservation
Former UCF board member pastor Abe Cox was so moved by the need of America’s poorest Native American’s (the Blackfeet) that he dedicated much of his life to make a difference on the desolate reservation in northwest Montana. In 2004 Abe died. In his memory, 22 UNC Charlotte students from UCF decided to make an annual pilgrimage to the reservation to offer service and outreach ministry. In 2005 these 22 students arrived on the reservation but there one was slight problem … no one was there to coordinate the mission projects. So with a small local congregation, and the support of the Blackfeet, we developed the UCF Montana Internship Program where a UNC Charlotte student or two coordinate the entire summer mission and ministry program for the southern portion of the reservation. Today teams from all types of churches and campus ministries travel great distances to offer service and outreach at the direction of our campus ministry here at UNC Charlotte.
The Internship Position
In brief, as an intern you will lead Sunday services of worship, lead Bible studies, work with community members to asses physical needs and coordinate mission work projects for mission teams be they construction projects or other types of ministry.
Length of Service
Depending on the specific needs of the intern (graduation, exams, etc.) generally the intern will arrive in Mid May and depart in Mid August.
Housing
The mission site is the Apistodooke United Methodist Parish. In all intents and purposes the intern will be the summer chaplain for the parish. The building has three bathrooms and showers, and sleeps up to 35 mission volunteers with a fully equipped kitchen, chapel, sanctuary, laundry, tool and supply building, and food pantry. There are two private rooms where interns can reside.
Transportation
Because the worksite is very large and driving is a must, the intern will need to provide their own transportation to the reservation.
Support System
The Blackfeet Parish headquartered in Browning, Montana has a full time pastor who will help orient you to Heart Butte and offer ongoing support to your ministry through the summer. Additionally, members of the parish will attend services, open their homes, cook meals, suggest activities, and offer care/advice. Moreover, throughout the summer the intern will coordinate a number of mission teams from all over the U.S. who utilize the facility you manage (the parish) and look to you for project leadership. These teams offer extraordinary care to the interns. They understand as well that it is there responsibility to include you in meals and so you will never go hungry. You will be in constant contact with folks at UNC Charlotte by internet, phone and an occasional site visit as well.
Free Time
While the internship can be demanding and challenging, you will find yourself relaxed and in a sense of awe to the wonderful Montana land. When not engaged in a ministry activity, you are free to explore Glacier National Park, Waterton Lakes Park (Canada) and other great places nearby. Every mission team will also want to tour which means you will visit these wonderful sites almost weekly.
Credit
In addition to the experience, you will receive 500 hours of community service that you can apply as needed. You can also check with a selected professor as we will cooperate with requirements and procedures to award academic credit as it is available.
Packing List
Do not bring unnecessary valuables and things you don’t need! You will need a good Bible; toiletries (sunscreen!); detergent; towels; casual clothes for most days and maybe 1-2 nicer outfits; alarm clock; exercise clothes; plenty of old work clothes for painting and projects; cleaning etc.; both a light jacket and heavy coat; sheets; pillow; all necessary medications; passport or passport id; Insurance card; CD’s for worship or ipod; phone cards; sweatshirts; camera
Raising Funds
Each intern has the opportunity to grow their faith by trusting God to provide the financial resources needed. God will provide! You’ll be able to invite others-family, friends, fellow church members, etc.-to invest in expanding God’s kingdom as you go this summer. We’ll guide you with instructions. It is always encouraging to see God bring in the financial support that we need for our interns.
More About Finances
Housing and food is provided! The funds that are raised will go toward your stipend which pays mostly for your travel expenses and extra cash.
