Via Ecclesia Internship 2025-2026
What is Via Ecclesia?
via (Latin: way) + ecclesia (Greek: church) =
way of church
Via Ecclesia is a leadership development program at First Baptist Church of Asheville that immerses youth in the life of the church with an intense focus on servant leadership and community dynamics. Identified recipients will commit to one year of collaborative learning and intentional service beyond youth programs. The Via Ecclesia program has designed experiences of intergenerational ministry, theological reflections, peer learning and support, and pastoral mentoring and supervision.
Like the Via Karis that binds our community of faith together, Via Ecclesia is a living communal experience, with the holy and ambitious goal of producing fruit far beyond the precise dates of service. In an age when local churches experience certain forms of decline and reduction, this program seeks to propel energy into the younger generation in such a way that they should aspire to serve a local church across their lifetime.
The Via Ecclesia program begins in August 2025 and concludes in May 2026. Applications will be accepted from any high school junior and seniors or young adult actively engaged with FBCA Youth Ministry.
Up to four (4) high school students (or young adults) will be selected for this second program year, with an option for returning students to reapply for 2025-26 year. Identified recipients will form a fellowship that will stimulate peer learning and communal theological reflection. Interns will receive a stipend of $1,000 per semester for an expected hourly commitment of five (5) hours per week. These funds come from a special church fund and are intended to support post-secondary educational and professional opportunities.
Commitments
As a Via Ecclesia Intern the following commitments apply:
Attend
- Attend opening and closing VE retreats
- Attend one deacon meeting per semester
- Attend one auxiliary FBCA event per semester (CFL; AFTA)
- Attend monthly peer learning group for theological reflection
Serve
- Serve on the FBCA Servant Leadership Team
Meet
- Meet monthly with a deacon sponsor
- Meet monthly with a member of the youth ministerial staff
Join
-
Join an FBCA ministry team or council
Read
-
Read a designated book and provide a written reflection
Welcome to our 2025-26 Via Ecclesia Interns!
Nicky Bamberger
Focus Music History
“I have grown up in our church and markedly benefited from the community and loving environment it has provided. Joining Via Ecclesia is a chance to give back. Like many, I’ve been figuring out my future and have realized I want to stay connected to music—but not through performance or teaching. I’m drawn to music history, which involves musicology, library science, and archival work. While I know I love music, I’m less familiar with archival work. Gaining hands-on experience through Archival Ministries would be invaluable and help me explore a field I may find truly fulfilling. I already enjoy research and serve as a librarian for my school chorus, so this opportunity aligns with both my interests and future goals.”
Lisa Barnett serves as Nicky’s deacon mentor.
Jamie Smoski
Focus Church
“Participating in Via Ecclesia last year brought me closer to both the church and my community. I spent more time with peers and formed lasting bonds, including with Thursday morning volunteers like my mentor Cindy. I’ve also connected with many who visit the food pantry and often see them outside of church, which makes me proud to have brightened their day in some small way.”
Stephanie Kiser serves as Jamie’s deacon mentor.
Sophia Stertz
Focus Teaching Youth
“Via Ecclesia is a special ministry to me. I’ve learned a lot from my past two years of the internship, things I’ll hopefully carry into my adult life. I’ve learned what it means to be a leader in the Church, and that there is an extreme amount of work from a lot of people. I’ve learned how many opportunities there are for a diverse group of people, and how important it is to have a wide variety of people to lead. I’ve also been given the opportunity to explore future career options in real world settings. I have always wanted to work with kids and last year I had the chance to work with younger kids and this year I’d like to do community building with youth. I do Via Ecclesia to serve my church because they have served me in so many ways.”
Mary Caldwell serves as Sophia’s deacon mentor.
Via Ecclesia Openings