What is HDC Next?
HDC Next exists to develop the next generation of missional ministry leaders.
This program is designed to help young adults grow spiritually, personally, and professionally. HDC Next is a 12-month internship program that will help you discover God’s calling on your life, equip you with the skills and tools to do the work of the ministry and create hands on experiences that prepare you for ministry.
Who is it for?
We offer two distinct tracks you can apply for: our Internship Program (ideal for high school grads and college students) and our Residency Program (designed for second career or stay at home parents).
HDC Next Internship Program
The HDC Next Internship Program is designed for recent high school or college graduates who are exploring and discerning a potential calling to full-time vocational ministry. Interns will serve and attend HDC exclusively, unless they are involved in a parachurch ministry such as a camp or local non-profit.
This is an unpaid internship opportunity.
HDC Next Residency Program
The HDC Next Residency Program provides purpose and opportunity for second-career individuals or stay-at-home individuals who already attend HDC, are actively serving in a ministry, and are known by a staff member. Residents will have the heart and role of a shepherd in addition to the capacity to oversee, lead, and implement significant aspects of ministry at HDC as volunteers.
This is an unpaid opportunity.
Testimonials
HDC NEXT TESTIMONIAL | Masyn Long
HDC NEXT TESTIMONIAL | Mike Moore
HDC NEXT TESTIMONIAL |Â Anthony Alvarado
HDC NEXT TESTIMONIAL | Heather Nelson
How we do it
Theology Module
Throughout the program, interns and residents will attend classes designed to teach the foundational tenets of the Christian faith. We use Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology as the primary guide for our discussions. By the end of the program, each intern and resident should be able to clearly articulate major theological concepts and feel confident in their beliefs.
Church Leadership Module
Interns and residents will participate in classes and experiences that provide a comprehensive understanding of full-time vocational ministry. Topics will include calling, marriage and ministry, church budgeting, counseling, hospital visitation, team collaboration, networking with other ministries, and personal spiritual development.
Ministry Cohort Module
Interns and residents will be part of a ministry cohort that offers hands-on, practical ministry opportunities. Each cohort will focus on specific areas of ministry leadership, such as student ministry, kids ministry, worship, young adults, operations, etc, providing specialized training and experience.
Mentorship Module
Throughout the program, interns will be matched with a mentor outside of their ministry cohort to offer intentional support for their spiritual formation and personal growth. Ministry can be demanding, and it is important to have opportunities to process personal well-being alongside ministry development. Mentors create an environment for honest conversations, helping interns navigate their experiences, grow in emotional and spiritual maturity, and allow for honest feedback regarding their ministry cohort.
HDC Next Details
2026-2027
When:Â
- Applications Open:Â Now through April
- Applications Close:Â Early April
- Interviews:Â May
- HDC Next Orientation: Tuesday, July 28th. This is a full day where every question you ever had will be answered, well almost every question.
- HDC Next Program: August 2026-July 2027
Who: You
Cost:Â $500 + books. A $250 deposit is required at registration and is fully refundable if you are not accepted or decide not to attend the program.
Time Commitment: 20 Hours per week. This is divided between class time, ministry time (doing the work) and different meetings and programming your cohort has.
FAQS
The internship runs for approximately 12 months, starting each August and concluding the following July.
Not at all. You’ll be surrounded by staff, mentors, leaders, and fellow interns who are committed to teaching, guiding, supporting, and encouraging you every step of the way.
You must be a high school graduate and turning 18 within a few months of graduation. There’s no upper age limit if you’re ready to grow and serve, you’re eligible.
Absolutely! We love having married individuals in the program and have had many thrive in this environment.
Plan on committing around 20 hours per week. This includes class time, meetings, ministry involvement, and events most of which take place during weekend services and midweek programming.
- Tuesdays: Theology and Church Leadership modules from 1:00–4:00 PM
- Wednesdays:Â Staff meeting begins at 8:30 AM, followed by your cohort gathering until lunchtime
- Other hours vary based on the cohort and ministry area you’re serving in, so each week will look a little different.
You’ll have a workstation in our church office alongside fellow interns and residents. You will be given key card access to all our buildings, a church email and limited access to our church management system.
Your fee covers special events, a yearly retreat, and some curriculum materials. You’ll be responsible for purchasing core books and any cohort-specific resources recommended during the year.