Kairos 20th Anniversary

Twenty years ago, we began thinking intentionally about equipping the next generation to carry out the mission of the local church. Our Kairos internship was born out of this desire, and we are humbled to celebrate God’s provision as we’ve come alongside nearly 400 young adults over the past two decades.

In Greek, Kairos means "season." As the culture changes around our young adults, we can point to biblical truths that are timeless. Kairos meets students ages 18–22 during this important season and invites them to spend their summer serving and growing alongside Grace Church staff. Representing many different states and universities, interns throughout the years have brought their energy, skills, and passion to an array of ministry areas in our church—including Students, A/V, Communications, Outreach, Worship, and more.

Recently, we enjoyed a 20th Anniversary dinner celebrating with over 230 folks connected to this program.

Ellie Horrocks and Ben Smith, two of our 11 Kairos interns this past summer, shared these takeaways from their experiences:

Classes

Sitting under the teaching, leadership, and wisdom of leaders in the church who care about the next generation was very humbling and quickly became one of my favorite parts of the internship. The Lord used the classes to grow my self-awareness, my understanding of the local church, my desire to study the Scriptures, my knowledge of the Holy Spirit, and so much more. If you are humble and willing to receive, I don’t think it is possible to sit under Kairos teaching and not be changed.

Camp Griggs

I had the privilege of working with the Outreach team, and I learned so much about what it looks like to partner with another church and be part of what God is doing in their congregation and community. It was such a reminder that God’s Kingdom is so much bigger than my little world. I also learned the power of consistency and reaching others. People, especially children, want connection and relationship before they want help. Witnessing how Griggs Church builds trust by meeting the needs of the Poe Mill community was truly a life-changing experience.

BridgeBuilders

BridgeBuilders was easily one of my best Kairos experiences. I learned how to pursue the high school volunteers in a new way, how to come under the authority of our trip lead, and how to lead others in the areas I was given responsibility for. Between camp, service projects, sessions, small group, and just hanging out, it was a spiritually challenging week, but I got to witness the Lord work through the high schoolers, the campers, and my own life. It will definitely be an experience I will remember, and I would love to go back.

Host Families

I am so thankful that the Lord called me to live with a host family—even though I’m from the Upstate. From the first time I walked through the door, they welcomed me in and wanted to get to know me. We ate every meal together when our schedules aligned and spent time playing games and watching movies. Throughout the summer, I got busier, which meant I spent less time with them, but it made the time we did have together even more meaningful. Eating with them was my favorite part because we could dive into the day's classes, work, personal struggles, relationships, and just have fun. They poured into me in so many ways that I cannot limit myself to just a short paragraph. I am super grateful for their generosity and love toward me in this season of my life.

We’re grateful for the ways God has used Kairos to shape lives and prepare young adults to serve Him wherever He leads. Applications for next summer’s Kairos internships are open through November 15! If you’re a student who wants to grow in your understanding of the Bible, the local church, and what it means to be a follower of Christ, we’d love for you to consider applying. Learn more by clicking below.