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 church plants in the 320 Network
- 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
- Church Membership
- 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
RESIDENCY RHYTHMS
412 DEVELOPMENT TRAININGS
Every Thursday, residents gather for intentional growth in character, competency, and conviction—core essentials for ministry leadership. Leaders from our church and community are brought in to intentionally develop each resident.
MINISTRY EXPERIENCE
Being a resident means becoming part of our staff team. You’ll receive everyday, hands-on ministry experience—from attending staff meetings and leading mission teams to teaching, preaching, and caring for church members.
ONE-ON-ONE DEVELOPMENT
Every other week, Residents meet one-on-one with their ministry leader for intentional coaching and feedback. These conversations provide space to ask questions, share life and grow in leadership.
THEOLOGICAL TRAINING
In partnership with Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, the 320 Residency provides theological training to help Residents grow in their knowledge of God, His Word, and His Church. Upon completion of the online program, Residents earn a Master of Christian Studies (MCS).
RESIDENCY TRACKS
Preschool (Birth-PreK)
Kids (K-6)
Students (7-12)
College
Adults
International Missions
Worship
Media
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.
Do I have to become a member of Central Baptist to be a Resident?
Yes! All residents will go through the membership class and become members of Central Baptist Church. Residents must also agree with Central's statements of beliefs and adhere to the Baptist Faith and Message 2000.
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