Growing in Worship: Ellen’s Internship Experience

Ellen, a 2024/2025 Worship and Students Intern at Citygate Church, moved from Torquay to Bournemouth to deepen her faith and serve in ministry, experiencing significant personal and spiritual growth through challenges and leadership opportunities, and now feels called to continue in worship ministry. Read more of her story…

Ellen leading worship at Citygate Bournemouth.

Hi, I'm Ellen – A 2024/2025 Worship and Students Intern at Citygate Church as part of the Commission Intern year!

Hi everyone! My name is Ellen, and I’ve moved from Torquay, Devon, to Bournemouth to be a Commission Intern for the 2024/2025 year. I felt called to take a year to grow in my faith and serve in ministry, and I’m excited to share a bit of my journey with you.

Feeling Called to Serve

After finishing my A-Levels, I wasn’t quite sure what my next step should be. But I knew one thing—I wanted to devote a year to God. I have a deep passion for worship, and I wanted to grow in that particular ministry. As I prayed about applying for this internship, I asked God to make it clear if this was the right path for me. Every door opened, and I knew this was where He was leading me.

Learning and Growing Through the Internship

Since starting this internship, I’ve gained so much insight into what goes into making worship happen each Sunday. Seeing the preparation and dedication behind the scenes has deepened my appreciation for worship and inspired me to invest more in my own journey.

My faith has grown in ways I never expected. I’ve learned to trust in God and have become more aware of who I am in Christ. Serving in both Worship and Students ministry has been such an encouragement. I’ve faced challenges, like overcoming my fear of public speaking, but I’ve also grown in confidence and learned how to lead a session or team. One of my most memorable moments was leading worship during a student session where the Holy Spirit was so present—songs and words of encouragement flowed together so beautifully, and it was clear that God was leading the entire evening.

Challenges and Growth

One of my biggest struggles was standing in front of students and speaking to a large group of people my own age. At first, it was really intimidating, but over time, I’ve grown in confidence, and it feels so much less scary now. It’s amazing to see how God has built my character through these experiences.

I’ve also been deeply moved by how God works in the lives of those I serve. When I’m leading or taking part in worship, it’s such a special moment to witness how the Holy Spirit moves within the congregation. It’s a huge blessing to be able to serve God through music—something I love and enjoy so much.

A New Perspective on Ministry and Leadership

This internship has given me a fresh perspective on ministry and leadership. Seeing the heart of the worship team at Citygate—how much they invest in their calling—has challenged and inspired me. Their preparation and dedication have encouraged me to be more intentional in my own worship leading, knowing that glorifying God starts with a heart of devotion and discipline.

Looking Ahead

As I think about my future, I feel called to continue in worship ministry. This year has confirmed my passion for leading worship as a “lifestyle”, not just a Sunday role. If anyone is considering the Commission Intern Year, I would wholeheartedly encourage them to do it. It’s an amazing opportunity to set aside a year to focus entirely on God and grow deeper in His word.

Ways You Can Pray for Me

I would love prayer for my next steps, that God would guide me into whatever He has planned for me next. I also ask for prayer as I continue to develop in my worship leading, that I may glorify God through my passion for music and ministry.

Looking back on my experience, I would sum it up as: “A great foundation for any future career, a year to focus on God and grow in Him.”

One verse that has meant so much to me during this season is Jeremiah 29:11:

“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

Thank you for journeying with me this year—I’m so grateful for all the support and prayers!

By Ellen Theiman