Public Witness Internship
Internship and Fellowship for the Office of Public Witness and the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations
The Office of Public Witness and Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations believes that the formation of servant leaders and advocates is vital to the public-policy ministry and witness of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The Fellowship seeks to provide substantive, formative work and guidance for individuals seeking experiential learning and vocational discernment in the church and in the public square.
Fellows will receive a broad experience of the ministry of Public Witness and international advocacy and will explore the connections among their own faith journey, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s social justice teachings, and the political and social realities in the world and the United States today.
Washington, D.C., is often seen as a city driven by ambition and opportunity but too often, that opportunity comes in the form of unpaid, underappreciated labor. Many young people arrive with high hopes of learning and contributing, only to find themselves in roles with heavy responsibility and little meaningful support or voice.
At the Office of Public Witness, we work to offer something different. Our Fellowship program is not about filling staffing gaps or finding “extra hands.” It’s about creating a space for emerging leaders to grow, contribute meaningfully, and discern their vocational call within the church and the world.
Fellows are entrusted with real responsibility and are supported every step of the way by our staff. We offer not just tasks, but tools, resources, mentorship, and guidance to help fellows engage in ministry, advocacy, and public witness with both purpose and confidence.
We view this work as a partnership. Fellows bring their own unique experiences, questions, and passions, and we strive to create an environment where those can flourish. Through diverse opportunities, hands-on experience, and intentional reflection, fellows leave the Office of Public Witness with new skills, deeper insight, and a clearer sense of where God may be calling them next.
We are deeply grateful for the chance to walk alongside our fellows. Their presence, energy, and vision enrich our shared ministry and strengthen our witness in the public square.
Our Fellowship program takes place during the summer months, typically from June through July. Summer Fellows engage in a full, immersive experience over a condensed eight-week period.
Fellows generally work between 20–30 hours per week and are compensated hourly for their time and contributions. While housing is not provided in either Washington, D.C., or New York, we are happy to assist fellows in exploring housing options and identifying potential resources.
The Fellowship is conducted in a hybrid format, offering both in-person and virtual opportunities. This flexible approach allows young adults to fully engage with the work of public witness and advocacy while accommodating individual needs and circumstances.
The summer Fellowship is designed to be formative, practical, and empowering offering meaningful work experience, spiritual reflection, and professional growth in a supportive environment.
Internships are offered from September through May and typically last a minimum of 12 weeks. Interns generally serve part-time, allowing them to balance other commitments such as coursework or employment.
The program is open to both students and non-students, and academic credit may be arranged through participating institutions.
Current Partner Programs Include:
- Council of Christian Colleges & Universities (Undergraduate Program)
- Wesley Theological Seminary (Practice for Ministry and Mission)
- Princeton Theological Seminary
- Columbia Theological Seminary
- Union Theological Seminary
- The Internship program is unpaid and does not include a stipend.
- The Fellowship program is paid hourly during the months of June and July.
- Candidates who are sponsored by an external institution that provides its own stipend are not eligible for additional housing support from the Office of Public Witness (OPW) or Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations (PMUN).
- Most partner institutions do not allow participants to receive duplicate stipends, so candidates should consult their sponsoring organization regarding stipend eligibility.
- Housing stipends may be available depending on funding but are not guaranteed each year.
- OPW/PMUN is committed to increasing financial support as resources allow, but retains the right to offer fellowship opportunities without stipends when necessary.
The Office of Public Witness encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds who are passionate about social justice and public ministry.
While the program is especially well-suited for young adults and recent graduates, all are welcome to apply.
Local pastors or mid-career individuals may wish to explore the Visiting Associate Program as part of a sabbatical or study leave.
Ideal Candidates Will Demonstrate:
- A commitment to justice and community service, both in the U.S. and globally
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- The ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Dependability, flexibility, creativity, and effective time management
- Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and a willingness to learn new tools
- Strong interpersonal skills, particularly in diverse and multicultural settings
Please Note:
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) does not provide visa assistance for internship or fellowship placements.
This program is open to all applicants without discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation, in accordance with the PC(USA)’s Human Resources policy.
To apply, please submit application form, resume, and cover letter by email to [email protected]. Please note your name and "Intern/Fellow Application” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted from November 1 to March 1.