Trinity’s Student Apprenticeship Program (SAP)
Trinity’s Student Apprenticeship Program (SAP) exists with the goal of helping teens become spiritually mature, servant leaders of the church. We believe that teens are not simply the church of tomorrow; they are the church of today. God has gifted them with skills and abilities to build up His church and advance His kingdom. SAP gives students the opportunity to use those gifts and grow into spiritually mature, servant leaders at Trinity Baptist and beyond.
Curriculum and Practicum
SAP is not a requirement for teens to serve within Trinity Baptist.
The program is for those who want to go beyond serving; they want to grow as leaders within their church. This program will cover a variety of topics regarding spiritual formation and leadership skills (i.e. spiritual disciplines, spiritual gifts, leading a team, conflict resolution, etc.). Once a month, SAP students (SAPs) will come together after the church service for a “Lunch and Lesson”. They will share a meal, share their practicum experiences, and go through curriculum.
We want teens to take ownership of the church by serving in meaningful ways. Each SAP student will be required to serve within youth ministry and have the option to serve in other church ministries. SAPs will still take part in small groups with their peers but will take on additional leadership roles within the youth ministry.
The Leadership Skill Tree
SAP helps students build their “Leadership Skill Tree,” which has two levels: Core and Graduate.
Core Program (Year 1)
The first year of the SAP is the Core program. Students will go through the curriculum during “Lunch and Lessons” and practice the spiritual disciplines as a group to establish the foundation of their skill tree. Think of Core as the “tree trunk.” Once they complete the Core year, students officially graduate from the program.
Graduate Program (Years 2+)
After completing CORE, students may choose to continue in the Graduate program. They will focus on specific leadership skills or spiritual gifts they want to develop; the “branches” of their tree. Their roles within the youth ministry will be more focused. SAPs that choose to remain leaders will have a heavy focus on mentorship and field work (serving). They will not be required to attend “Lunch and Lessons” but will continue to serve and meet with Pastor Ethan and their mentor.
Mentorship
Mentorship is one of the requirements and a crucial part of SAP. Each student will either find their own mentor or be assigned one by Pastor Ethan. SAPs are required to meet with their mentors once a month in person, phone call, or video call. SAPs are encouraged to connect with their mentors more frequently.
Along with regular check-ins to support their growth and development, Pastor Ethan will mentor SAPs through two one-on-one meetings per ministry year.
Perks
SAP has fun perks!
- Exclusive team hoodies: SAPs receive team hoodies exclusive to their year. We believe that every great team deserves great swag.
- Change Conference Trip: SAPs will be taken down to Calgary for Change Conference in May! We want SAPs to not only learn how to serve their church but gain camaraderie with one another. Serving together, eating together, learning together, team trips, and team swag all build the kind of culture we want in this program.
- Team-building events: Optional but always a fun way to bond! Start-up Bonfire, Corn Maze, Christmas Party, Mini Golf, and year end BBQ.
The Cost
Luke 14:28 says, “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” SAP requires commitment, and applicants should understand the expectations:
- Serving in Trinity Youth. All SAPs must serve within their youth group in some capacity. Take ownership of your home.
- Serving around 4-5 hours a month in youth or other ministries
- Attend Lunch and Lessons. These lessons are for you. Do your best to attend them, ask questions, and apply what you learn.
- Be a growing follower of Christ. We don’t ask you to be perfect or have all the answers. We do require that SAPs be teens who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ and are actively growing in Him.
- Have a heart to serve everyone. As a SAP, you help make Trinity Baptist a place where everyone who walks through our doors feels welcome. We want people to know they can come as they are, bring their struggles, ask hard questions, and pursue Christ together in community.
- Set the tone. You are now leaders of this Church. How you live in and outside of the church sets the example for everyone else.
- Make an effort with your team. Team bonding is optional, but the best teams grow when spending time together.
- The financial cost. The cost of the Core Program is $150 for the year. The Graduate Program is free.
Applications open April 7th, 2026
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