Albany Synod Fellowship Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Why a Fellowship Program?

The Regional Synod of Albany recognized that recent seminary graduates bring particular gifts to ministry, and that many of our congregations are supportive learning environments for new clergy. Early ministry can be tough. Transitioning from seminary to pastoral ministry is a journey that poses challenges and presents opportunities. The Regional Synod of Albany is a great place for a first call, and the Fellowship Program will support both ministry sites and Fellows every step of the way.

What's the Purpose?

The purpose of the Albany Synod Fellowship Program is to provide an intentional and transitional program of preparation for ministers serving congregations within the Regional Synod of Albany. It will support new ministers as they learn to lead adaptive change and grow into their pastoral vocation, so that they and their congregations might flourish in mutual ministry. It will also support Albany Synod congregations in growing their capacity to be missional, teaching churches.

Interested Ministry Sites

Responsibilities:

Ministry sites are committed for two years. During that time, you will support your Fellow with a team of 4-6 people who will come along side to support and learn with your Fellow. You will pledge to financially support this position, to the best of your ability.

How the Regional Synod Helps

The Regional Synod will recruit a gifted, creative, highly-committed seminary graduate (a "fellow") to serve with your organization. The Regional Synod will also partner with you financially (if you need) for the salary, benefits, and housing for your fellow. Also, the Regional Synod will provide training in Healthy Communications and Boundaries for your leadership team in order to encourage a mutually fruitful relationship and productive ministry.

Interested Seminary Students

Fellows commit to living and working in the Regional Synod for two years. You will have facilitated monthly reflection meetings with the other Fellows and work closely with a support team from your ministry site. During this time, you will attending retreats and trainings as a part of the Fellowship Program. You will also engage in coaching, spiritual direction, or professional mentoring

Responsibilities:

How the Regional Synod Helps

The Regional Synod will invest in you and your leadership potential by providing support, networking, learning opportunities, and check ins with both you and your ministry site. Ministry may not be easy, but you will never be left on your own to fail.

Albany Synod Fellow 2019-2021 shares about his experience...

Check out this video to learn more about the incredible experience of the Albany Synod Fellowship Program from one of the fellows.

Albany Synod Fellow: 2021-2023

Trey Tirpak

Aloha! My name is Trey Tirpak, and in September, I’ll be joining First Church as the Albany Synod Fellow, Minister of Discipleship & Outreach. I’m excited to join and contribute to the life and purpose of First!

A little about me: I was born and raised on the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii, and at 18 I moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan to attend Calvin College where I studied Christian religion and community development. I then went to Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan where I received a Master of Divinity. Since March 2020, I’ve been working with the Chief of Staff at the City of Grand Rapids (Michigan) aiding his efforts with the 2020 Census, COVID-19 recovery initiatives, and regular planning commission agenda items.

I love to spend time in coffee shops, go to cute eateries, and keep up with Formula1 racing (go McLaren!). My main love is exploring cities and nature with my partner Cameron, who grew up near Detroit and is an urban planner. I’m always down to listen to a good podcast, read a theology book, or chat around dinner or a bonfire -- I’m hoping we can do some of these things together!

A hui hou -- until we meet, Trey.