How to Conduct a Job Interview for a Church Intern

Hiring a summer intern for your church—especially in areas like youth, worship, or kids ministry—is a big deal. You’re not just filling a short-term role. You’re investing in a future leader, someone who will be representing your church, connecting with people, and potentially exploring a lifetime of ministry.

So how do you make the most of the interview process—even if you’ve never led one before? Here’s a simple, practical guide to help you ask the right questions, assess character and calling, and make a confident decision.

⏱️ How Long Should the Interview Take?

Plan for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how much conversation flows. You want enough time to get to know the person without overwhelming them.  If you’re between a few candidates, it’s okay to schedule second-round interviews for deeper follow-up.

✅ Should You Contact References?

Yes. Even for an internship, it’s important to follow up with 1–2 references—especially someone who can speak to the candidate’s work ethic, character, and faith. A former supervisor, pastor, or ministry leader is ideal.

Ask them:

• What is this person like to work with?
• How do they respond to feedback?
• Would you trust them to lead or mentor others?
• Any concerns we should be aware of?

🧑‍💼 Where to Hold the Interview

Choose a space that’s quiet, distraction-free, and welcoming. In person is best, but Zoom can work if needed. You want them to feel at ease, but still understand this is a serious role with real responsibilities.  Avoid over-the-phone because you want to see their reaction to questions as well, and Zoom or in-person does that.

📝 Sample Interview Questions (With Follow-Ups)

You don’t need to ask all of these—just enough to get a well-rounded view of who they are and how they’d fit your team.

🔹 General Questions (for all positions)

1. Tell me a little about yourself and your walk with Jesus.
   Follow-up: How has your faith grown in the last year?
2. Why are you interested in this internship?
   Follow-up: What do you hope to gain from this experience?
3. What are your strengths and areas you’re still growing in?
   Follow-up: How do you handle challenges or feedback?
4. How do you stay spiritually healthy when you’re busy?
   Follow-up: What spiritual practices help you stay grounded?
5. Have you worked with kids/students/worship teams before? What was that like?
   Follow-up: What did you learn from that experience?
6. How do you handle awkward or difficult conversations?
   Follow-up: Give me an example of a time you had to navigate conflict.
7. What does servant leadership mean to you?
   Follow-up: Can you describe a time you led by serving?

🔹 For Youth Ministry Interns

1. What do you love most about working with teenagers?
2. How would you handle a student who is disruptive or disengaged?
3. If you had to lead a devotional, what would you talk about? Why?

🔹 For Worship Ministry Interns

1. What’s your experience with leading worship?
2. How do you prepare spiritually and practically before leading a service?
3. Are you comfortable receiving feedback on your playing/singing/leading?
   Follow-up: Tell me about a time you received constructive criticism.

🔹 For Kids Ministry Interns

1. What’s your approach to engaging kids in a church setting?
2. How do you balance fun and faith when teaching younger kids?
3. Have you ever helped lead a lesson or Bible story for kids? How did it go?

🙌 Bonus Tip: Make Space for Questions

Always leave time for the candidate to ask you questions. It shows curiosity and maturity. Be honest, encouraging, and clear about what the summer will actually look like.

📩 After the Interview: What Next?

• Pray over your decision—you’re stewarding someone’s calling and development.
• Follow up within a week (or give them a timeline).
• If you decide to move forward, follow up with a clear offer and expectations, and set up an onboarding plan.

✅ Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a hiring expert to run a great internship interview—you just need to be intentional and prayerful. Ask the right questions, listen well, and trust the Holy Spirit to guide you.

You’re not just filling a summer slot. You’re investing in someone’s calling, confidence, and future—and that’s worth doing well.