Frequently Asked Questions about Ministry Bound

 

How much training and teaching is actually involved?

Each participant in M.B. works directly for a team leader in particular area that corresponds with the track they have chosen. Our staff recognize that the M.B. program is designed to train future camper workers and therefore take every available opportunity to constantly train. We often refer to the camping ministry as their class room. They are always being taught! Once a week there is a set time in which specific topics are taught and M.B. participants are given the chance to ask any questions they have come across in during the previous week.

 

What does a typical week look like? What kind of commitment is required?

A nine month commitment is desired. We feel that the full scope of training can best be done during a full 9 month time period. That gives a person enrolled in the program the opportunity to see all facets of camp as well as a host of different camps run. A typical week consists of preparing for camps coming in, hosting the camps that come and then general upkeep and maintenance of what God has given us. Variety is a word that best describes a week in M.B. On average a person will experience at least two days off a week. The days off vary depending on the camp schedule. Days are long, and weeks fly by with much activity. This program really does give a feel for what camp really is like! It is a perfect training ground for a life in camping.

 

What is the difference between IIM and M.B. ?

IIM stands for the Ironwood Institute of Ministry which is a program designed for college age young people who are seeking God’s will for their life. The program does carry a tuition fee and includes a number of college classes throughout a given year.

M.B. is for college graduates and is designed for individuals who believe God has called them into the camping ministry. It is designed to train and prepare a person to be able to serve in a variety of positions in the camping ministry.

 

Does it cost?

No! Currently the M.B. program does not carry a tuition fee.

 

Do you have a spot for me?

M.B. is an intense program that contains many elements of teaching and training. In order to best meet our mission with this program we heavily limit the amount of people who can be in the program. Openings are given based upon a persons application, references, and openings within the program. The only way to really know if there is a spot for you is for you to sign up and apply.

 

Will it be like college?

Some aspects may have a sense of college. For instance, there is a dorm setting for living and each person is responsible for their daily living elements (ie. laundry, room cleanliness, etc.) However, there is not a rigorous class schedule or a tuition payment that is mostly seen in a college atmosphere.

 

Where will we live?

For singles – you will live within the dorm setting of our Ironwood Institute of Ministry. You will be provided with a bed, dresser, closet in the midst of a room that will house approximately 3 other people.

For married couples – housing is based upon current openings but will consist of a bedroom, bath and storage area.

All M.B. eat their meals at the dining hall during camps and during off camp times. On the weekends, food is provided in the Ministry Shop which is a large living area dedicated to both the M.B. and IIM ministries.

 

What happens when I’m done with the program?  

We desire to help each graduate find placement in a camping ministry. Knowing this, we will strive hard to equip each participant as well as challenge them in ways to make sure that they are confident of their call to the camping ministry.

 

Is it fun?

Thus far, every participant in M.B. shares testimony of experiencing and learning things they never knew before. The program is filled with learning but overflowing with excitement. There is a neat atmosphere created when a group of likeminded people gather together to learn and do camp.