The Emmaus Pastoral Residency (EPR) is a two and a half year residential program designed to train and equip the whole man as he aspires to pastoral ministry.
We use the word ‘residency’ intentionally because participants agree to live in Kansas City and to covenant with the members of Emmaus Church. We desire for residents to invest a season of life in our community and our city—to honor the Lord, build friendships, make disciples, and serve the church.
Residents will meet regularly with Emmaus’s pastors for discipleship and formation. Monthly EPR gatherings focus on a unique topic related to pastoral ministry.
EPR addresses the following areas:
Theological Clarity
Spiritual Formation
Ability to Teach
Pastoral Care
Our prayer and desire is to help men grow in their knowledge of God so as to walk in a manner worthy of Him in pastoral ministry (Col. 1:9–10)—this growth happens in several ways:
- Being formed in godliness and confidence in Christ
- Being stable and consistent shepherd-leaders who care for others as we are cared for by Christ and sanctified by the Spirit
- Being honest about our sin and weakness while finding a greater fortitude and confidence in Christ’s victory over sin and death
- Growing in our freedom in Christ and in our ability to help others walk in the freedom of Christ
- Soaking in and pouring out gospel grace and healing
- Loving Jesus and others as we seek to love and lead others
While seminary education is beneficial, ministerial, spiritual, and theological formation should be firmly situated in the local church. Indeed, theology is the basis and sustenance for the Christian life. We desire to see the man of God seek spiritual and virtuous formation that undergirds his marriage, parenting, friendships, and pastoring.
To apply for the residency or request more information, email sean@emmauskc.com.
FAQs
Do I have to be a member of Emmaus to be a Resident?
- Yes, each resident must be a member of Emmaus Church. A major benefit to EPR is that elders and other residents get to walk through life with you for a few years. This allows you to be known in such a way that strengths can be highlighted and weaknesses can be exposed.
I’m not sure if I’m called to be a lead pastor; can I still apply?
- Yes, the residency’s goal is to aid in the holistic health of men who desire to pastor in various capacities, not just lead pastors.
Do I have to be in school? What if I’m in school?
- We know that the calling to pastor is a calling to prepare and to continue preparing throughout life. EPR is only one aspect of that preparation. We encourage those who believe they are called to pastor to take the opportunities available to learn theology in a formal academic setting. However, theological education is not a requirement for the residency.
Is there a minimum age requirement to apply for EPR?
- There is not a minimum age. However, as a general rule we look for men who have completed college or are in the mid 20’s or older.
What happens at the end of the residency?
- Residents who complete EPR will receive a letter of completion and will be presented to Emmaus as graduates of the residency. We will also work with you discern opportunities for pastoral ministry. When the time comes for you to leave us to join another faith family, we will send you with the blessing of our church.
What is the process of applying for the residency?
- Fill out an application.
- Interview with a pastor.
- Join Emmaus and get connected.
Does the residency offer financial compensation?
- Residents are not compensated.
What past residents have said…
“I wholeheartedly believe that Emmaus Church may have had the most significant impact on my life since our move to Kansas City (and that includes doctoral training). The Pastoral Residency, along with the other residents, are a important part of that impact.”
– Timothy Gatewood, Ph.D.
“These 2+ years will strengthen you in your holiness, theology, community, shepherding, and preaching. Emmaus and this Residency were the reason Kristen and I chose to come to KC.”
– Joseph Lanier, Pastor of Discipleship, Fairview Baptist Church, Apex, NC
“If you desire the office of pastor, and you need training, consider moving yourself to Kansas City to train under the godly, kind, Christ-loving shepherds at Emmaus Church. Nothing has been more instrumental in my development than walking through day to day life in this church as part of their pastoral residency. Emmaus is in it for the long haul—they don’t desire to train quick and impatient men who gain head knowledge or experience for the furthering of their own kingdom, but rather they spend the intentional time to prepare men for ministry by inviting them into the slower, more foundational life of the local body, intently focused on growing the kingdom of God. You won’t learn church growth principles, convenient strategies, or gimmicky tricks here, but you will learn what faithfulness to the Word, the Sheep, and the Gospel means.”
– Drake Osborn, Pastor of Liturgy and Teaching, Grace Church, Waco, TX