THE 320 RESIDENCY

Today's residents, tomorrow's leaders.

The 320 Residency is part of the 320 Network of Central Baptist Church, which exists to Build Leaders and Plant Churches. The purpose of the 320 Residency is to identify, develop, and send future ministry leaders who will:
  • Serve on staff with future campus launches
  • Lead on staff at Central Baptist Church
  • Reach the nations as career missionaries through the International Mission Board
Beginning each July, this two-year program gives residents hands-on ministry experience under the direct supervision, coaching, and discipleship of full-time ministry leaders—all within the context of the local church. Upon completion, residents will earn a Master of Christian Studies (MCS) degree from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

  • Clear, Convictional Call to Ministry
  • The Residency at Central is for those who have demonstrated a clear call to full-time ministry and has been affirmed in this by church leadership.
  • Church Membership
  • Residents must become a member at Central Baptist and agree to Central’s Beliefs and affirm the Baptist Faith and Message 2000
  • 2-year, full time (40 hours per week) commitment
  • At least 21 years old
  • Bachelor’s Degree

TIMELINE

  • November 3  – Applications Open
  • December 31 – Applications Close
  • January – Interviews
  • February – Announce Residents

DEVELOPMENT

When you become a resident at Central Baptist Church and the 320 Network, you are coming to be a future pastor or leader in ministry. This is not an internship. You will have meaningful ministry work to do that will move the Kingdom forward. The job of the 320 Network Residency program is to invest in your development while you invest in the Kingdom.

RESIDENT MEETING

Residents meet every Thursday morning for two hours. During this time, you'll receive teaching that is focused on one of three areas: ministry skills development, leadership development, or personal and spiritual development.

COACHING ONE-ON-ONE

Residents spend an hour each week meeting one-on-one with your ministry lead. During this time, your ministry lead will give you hands-on feedback on both your work as a resident and your growth as a person.

MINISTRY EXPERIENCE

You are given an active role in your ministry track which allows you to take ownership of meaningful ministry responsibilities to develop your skills as a future pastor or ministry leader.

ALL STAFF

Residents participate with Central Baptist staff once a month during our all-staff meeting. During these meetings, you will have the chance to learn about church-wide initiatives, vision casting, and what it looks like to be a part of one large, diverse team all moving in the same direction.

RESIDENT MINISTRIES

Kids

Central Kids Residency

Students

Central Students Residency

College

Central College Residency

Adults

Central Adults Residency

Missions

Central Missions Residency

Worship

Central Worship Residency

Media

Central Media Residency

Church Plant

Church Plant Residency

The 320 Network Residency FAQ

Who should apply?
The 320 Residency is designed for anyone with a clear and convictional call to ministry that has been affirmed by church leaders. Applicants should be at least 21 years old, hold a bachelor’s degree, have a desire to pursue further theological education, and demonstrates a deep love for the local church with a heart for church planting.
Is the residency full-time?
Yes! Each resident serves as a full-time staff member at Central Baptist Church, committing to a 40-hour work week.
Can I earn seminary credit through the residency?
Absolutely! Upon completion of the program, each resident will earn a Master’s of Christian Studies (MCS) from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Is the residency paid or support-raised?
Thanks to the generous giving at Central Baptist Church, each residency position is fully-funded including salary, health and dental insurance, and additional staff benefits.
When does the residency begin and how long is the program?
The 320 Residency begins each July and last for two years.
Is housing provided?
Housing is not provided, but the city of Jonesboro offers a variety of affordable living options within close proximity to the church.
What does a typical week look like in the residency?
Each week includes consistent rhythms such as attending staff meetings, 412 development trainings, bi-weekly one-on-one meetings with your ministry leader, and hands-on ministry responsibilities

building our next leaders

Apply today!