Thank you for taking the time to recommend this applicant for the Jubilee Fellows program. Before filling out the recommendation form, please take a few minutes to read this brief program description. Understanding the program’s requirements and intentions will help you to determine whether this applicant is well-suited for the program and, therefore, whether you would recommend him or her. According to law, a student may waive the right to examine any document in his or her file. Failure to waive will not be prejudicial to the student. You may ask the student if they have waived their right to examine the recommendation.
THE DEADLINE FOR RECOMMENDATIONS IS Tuesday, OCTOBER 20.
This program is designed for twelve promising students who are strongly inclined toward spiritual leadership and Christian ministry, and it aims to foster the next generation of church leaders. Students sometimes have a sense that God is calling them to ministry, but they aren't sure what "job" they should pursue or what steps they should take after graduating from Calvin University. Others may already have a sense that God is calling them to continue their studies in seminary or pursue a particular job in church ministry. In either case, the Jubilee Fellows program seeks to help these students explore their vocational calling through interdisciplinary learning, mentoring, and ministry experience.
The Jubilee Fellows program consists of:
1.
A course: Jubilee Fellows will take a semester course in which they study the vision, lives and theologies of those who have made great contributions to the Christian church through the centuries. They will discuss the vision and challenges of the church in various ages. During this course, students will also meet with contemporary Christian church leaders to learn about the leaders’ vocation and experience.
2.
An internship: After their junior year, Jubilee Fellows will be matched with summer internships in congregations where they will learn about the broad range of Christian ministry and contribute to specific congregational projects. Students will be closely mentored during their internship experiences. The summer will conclude with a retreat during which the Fellows share their experiences and reflect on their sense of calling.
3.
Senior year service: During their senior year, each Jubilee Fellow will contribute to some planned aspect of campus spiritual development. In addition to putting what they have learned into practice, they are given the opportunity to show their gratitude to Calvin by giving back to the community.
4.
Continued mentoring: Jubilee Fellows will continue to be mentored in their senior year while considering future ministry choices. They will explore the variety of contemporary ministry options available and seminary pathways that prepare them for such opportunities.
5.
Stipend: Each Jubilee Fellow will receive a $4000 stipend to acknowledge their summer ministry internship service.
We appreciate the time that you are taking to help us get to know this Jubilee Fellows applicant. We value your feedback. Our goal is to make Calvin University one important hub that encourages and equips students to find a future in serving the church. Thank you for helping us in our work.
To learn more about the Jubilee Fellows Program, or the Department of Congregational and Ministry Studies at Calvin University, please visit our website at
www.calvin.edu/academic/congregational-studies