Carey Baptist MTS β Ministry Training Strategy
Carey Church is thrilled to announce the launch of a new ministry training programβa dedicated initiative for people exploring a potential career in full-time ministry. This program builds on the encouraging success of our recent Rise Internship, which inspired many participants to consider deeper involvement in ministry. This program is built off the framework for another program run by various churches across the country called MTS.
Typically participants are fully and financially supported to commit to one or two years of full-time ministry work, where they receive training, education, and mentorship to help them discern their calling and develop the skills needed for ministry.
As we embark on this journey, Iβm reminded of Jesusβ words in Matthew 9:35-38:
βJesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, βThe harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.β
Carey Baptist Church is seeking to be and make disciples who love God, love people, and serve in Godβs mission. TheΒ Ministry Training Strategy (MTS)Β at Carey Baptist Church is an initiative designed to raise up the next generation of church leaders through a full-time apprenticeship program, providing training, education, and mentoring. As Jesus said in Matthew 9:37-38, βThe harvest is great, but the workers are few,β and MTS seeks to equip and support those called to full-time ministry through prayer and financial partnerships.
Our first MTS apprentice isΒ Thomas Wilson. Hereβs a letter from him explaining what MTS is all about.
A core part of ministry is inviting others to partner in Godβs work through prayer and financial support. MTS is a full-time apprenticeship where participants dedicate themselves to ministry training, and they rely on gospel partnerships to sustain them.
For many, God has given the means to support MTS participants financially, allowing them to be set apart for training and study. While Carey Baptist Church underwrites up to half of their stipend, each apprentice seeks financial partners to help cover the remaining costs.
For example, if 80 people gave just $8 a week (the cost of two coffees), Thomas would reach his half:Β $34,000Β goal for the year. Alternatively, 40 people giving $40 fortnightly (less than a family takeaway meal) would also meet this goal.
All donations are fully tax-deductible, and giving is quick and easy through our MTS online portal:
The most vital way to partner with an MTS apprentice is through prayer. Even the Apostle Paul relied on the prayers of believers for strength and encouragement in ministry (2 Corinthians 1:11).
To receive prayer updates and hear how God is at work through MTS, sign up here:
Please note that if youβre partnering financially, youβll automatically receive prayer updates.
If you have any questions about the program, please contact:
β’ First MTS Apprentice Thomas Wilson
Tax-deductible giving sounds great! Can I redirect my normal tithes and offerings to support the MTS instead?
Supporting an MTS apprentice is a wonderful way to give, and the tax deductibility is certainly a blessing. However, we believe this should be over and above your regular tithes and offerings. The church, supported by your tithes, provides the environment where MTS apprentices can learn, grow, and serve. Without the church, there would be no place for MTS apprentices to develop in ministry.
What happens if an MTS participant raises more than their goal?
If an apprentice exceeds their financial goal, Carey Church can reduce its contribution and set aside funds to underwrite future MTS participants. However, all donations given to a specific apprentice will still be directed to that individual.
Can I receive the prayer newsletter more frequently?
Yes! While the newsletter is sent out each term, we encourage genuine gospel partnership, which includes personal contact, encouragement, and support beyond just receiving updates.
If I give financially, do I need to sign up for the prayer letter separately?
No, when you choose to partner financially, you will also have the option to sign up for prayer updates at the same time.
Can I make a one-off donation to the MTS apprentice?
Yes! You can make a one-time, tax-deductible donation through the financial giving page. If you prefer to give cash, please contactΒ Pastor Peter,Β Nicholas, orΒ ThomasΒ to arrange it.
Is the MTS newsletter separate from the Carey Church newsletter?
Yes. The MTS newsletter focuses on the stories, events, and prayer requests of the apprentices. The Carey Church newsletter will only mention MTS when there are public events related to the program. You can subscribe to one or both newsletters.
How long is the MTS program? Can I stop financial support early?
We are trialing the MTS program for one year inΒ 2025. If the program is well-supported and goes well, we will extend it to two yearsβwhich will become the standard length moving forward.
If you commit to financial partnership, youβll be invitedβwithout pressureβto continue for the second year if the program is extended.
If your circumstances change and you need to adjust or stop financial support, simply informΒ Peter Scott,Β Nicholas Lockwood, or the apprentice as soon as possible. You are still welcome to receive the prayer letter and can resume giving later if you choose.
Can I make a one-off donation to the MTS program?
Yes! You can make a one-time, tax-deductible donation to Careyβs MTS program, where future apprentices can be supported in testing their call to full-time paid ministry. Please contactΒ Pastor Peter,Β Nicholas, orΒ ThomasΒ to arrange it.
Final Thoughts:
MTS is about raising up the next generation of church leaders. Whether through prayer or financial support, your partnership makes an eternal impact.
Blessings, and letβs go on this journey together!
