The Barnabas Fellowship
Equipping young leaders with a biblical mind, and loving heart for community service through a 9-month fellowship combining theological formation, mentorship, and peer learning.
Barnabas Fellows
Barnabas Fellows are young leaders (ages 18-24) committed to serving their communities, growing spiritually, and developing leadership skills through guided mentorship and service-learning. As a Barnabas Fellow, you will join a prestigious national cohort of young leaders who are making an impact in cities across the country. The Barnabas Project operates within an international network of Affiliates nationwide, providing Fellows with an unparalleled opportunity to connect, collaborate, and learn from like-minded peers. This program is more than a fellowship—it is a launchpad for the next generation of city leaders dedicated to faith-driven service and transformation. You will build relationships with mentors, faith leaders, and fellow young professionals who share a passion for community engagement and social renewal.
Why Barnabas?
The name Barnabas means “son of encouragement,” and it reflects the heart of this fellowship. In the Bible, Barnabas was a mentor, encourager, and leader who helped shape the early Christian community by supporting others in their faith and service. As a Barnabas Fellow, you will embody this spirit by uplifting communities, mentoring others, and growing as a leader committed to faith-driven service and transformation. This program is not just about personal development, it is about becoming a pillar of encouragement and leadership in your city.
As a Barnabas Fellow, you will join a prestigious national cohort of young leaders who are making an impact in cities across the country. The Barnabas Project operates within an international network of Affiliates nationwide, providing Fellows with an unparalleled opportunity to connect, collaborate, and learn from like-minded peers. This program is more than a fellowship—it is a launchpad for the next generation of city leaders dedicated to faith-driven service and transformation. You will build relationships with mentors, faith leaders, and fellow young professionals who share a passion for community engagement and social renewal.
Fellowship Commitments
- Be employed (or be a volunteer) by a local non-profit or congregation at least 20 hours a month
- Monthly cohort meetings & mentorship sessions
- Engagement in online learning modules
- Participation in a year-end reflection & closing event
Fellowship Benefits
- $3,600 Stipend for your participation, $400 paid monthly
- Practical experience in community service & leadership
- Monthly mentorship & cohort learning
- Exposure to diverse faith traditions & theological perspectives
- The opportunity to be part of a nationwide network of Fellow
- Exclusive access to leadership development resources and networking opportunities
Program TImeline
August 2025
Fellow Selection & Orientation
September 2025
Program Kickoff
Montorship, Services and Cohort Meetings begin.
September 2025
Final Reflection & Closing Celebration
How to Apply
Who Should Apply
- Age 18-24
- Passion for faith, service, leadership
- Commitment to 4-5 hours of weekly service
- Open to learning & spiritual formation
- Ability to reflect and engage in discussions
- Ideal Candidate Qualities:
- Enthusiastic about serving others
- Curious & open to exploring faith-based leadership
- Seeking personal & spiritual growth
- Ready to engage deeply in a cohort experience
Application Process
- Complete the online application form
- Provide one reference (mentor, pastor, professor, or employer)
- Participate in a 30 minture phone interview
- Final selection announced August 29
