Study Assistant

“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believe…so that you may be equipped for every good work…[and] carry out your ministry fully.” (II Timothy 3&4)
A major goal of EPM is to have a positive impact on young students as they seek direction for Christian service in their lives.   The fundamental concept is that through immersion in ministry outreach the Study Assistant/intern is able to experience what the role of being a pastor entails and to use this experience in making future decisions related to “a call.”

The idea is to learn by “seeing” and by “doing.”  The Study Assistant participates in every aspect of program planning and implementation specific to all EPM events – Kindlings Muse; Theological Dialogue and Word and Worship Services.  Through the ongoing ministry of Earl Palmer, the Study Assistant is provided supervision, training, caring and intentional conversation in both informal and formal settings.  He also travels alongside to speaking/teaching engagements locally, nationally and sometimes internationally.  In addition, each intern is expected to have a leadership role in active ministry of his own choosing outside the scope of EPM.  These ministries range from leading a Bible study with a core group of university or high school students to an active role in a local church.  This experience allows the intern to carry out ministry beside that of a seasoned pastor with the benefit of interaction while doing so.
Chris Thurton, (2013-2014) describes this role in his own words:

“The role of the Study Assistant is a two-way street.  The position allows the Study Assistant to walk alongside Earl Palmer, and through observing and interacting we are able to learn from him.  At the same time the position provides a place to learn and to grow for young theologians as we are called on to help with the day to day aspects of ministry that allow Earl Palmer to focus on his study and writing.