Public Witness Internship
The Advocacy and Witness Offices believe that 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.
Based in Washington, D.C., the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s Office of Public Witness (OPW) serves as the denomination's public policy information and advocacy office, helping the church put its commitments to justice, peace, and human dignity into action. Through a long-standing presence in the nation's capital, OPW works to bring the voices, values, and social witness policies of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) into public policy conversations and equip Presbyterians to engage in advocacy.
The Fellowship program extends beyond the work of the Washington office, offering opportunities to learn alongside a diverse network of the PC(USA)'s Advocacy & Witness ministries. Fellows may engage in work that includes domestic and international advocacy, immigration and racial justice, socially responsible investing, peacemaking and gun violence prevention, gender justice, and the church's engagement with the global community through the United Nations. Together, these ministries reflect the many ways the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) seeks to live out its faith through public witness and action.
Our Fellowship program is not about filling staffing gaps or finding "extra hands." It is 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 meaningful responsibilities and supported by experienced staff who offer mentorship, resources, and guidance throughout the experience. Through hands-on work in ministry, advocacy, education, and public witness, fellows gain a deeper understanding of how the church engages the pressing issues of our time, both locally and globally.
We view this work as a partnership. Fellows bring their own experiences, questions, gifts, and passions, and we strive to create an environment where those can flourish. Through diverse opportunities, collaborative work, and intentional reflection, fellows leave with new skills, deeper insight, and a clearer sense of where God may be calling them next.
We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside our fellows. Their presence, energy, and vision enrich our shared ministry and strengthen the church's witness in the world.
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 around 20 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 or hourly compensation.
- The Fellowship program is paid hourly during June and July.
- Some partner institutions have restrictions on receiving duplicate stipends or funding. Candidates should consult their sponsoring institution to confirm their eligibility and any applicable requirements.
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.
Applications are now OPEN.
To apply, please complete the application form and upload your resume and cover letter.
Applications will be accepted from November 1 through April 1.