Insight from Interns

From our previous post, you have seen a brief overview of what the internship here at VOH is all about. As we look forward to new interns coming to join us in July, I have taken the liberty to speak with a few of our current interns to hear what they have learned most so far since arriving at Vision of Hope.

Martha, intern since January, 2013 – Through this internship, I have discovered a need for daily reliance on God for wisdom.

Jenni, intern since January, 2013 – During my time here I have seen the benefit of structure and organization in a ministry. I have been struck by the smoothness of operation here because of it, which has been very encouraging. I have also been encouraged by the body of Christ here, and how good, Christ-focused relationships can develop quickly because of the commonalities we have in Christ.

Sarah, intern since July, 2012 – Through this internship I have seen my own inadequacy. I have learned how difficult it is to help people who are hurting, and that I have to rely on God’s strength. It has been challenging to love others and not always receive love in return, and through that I have learned that I really have to rely on Christ’s love.

Susan, intern since July, 2012 – I came to Vision of Hope excited to use both my bible training and nutrition degree in the ministry here.  So far He has used both, along with my spiritual gifts of exhortation and wisdom, to encourage and strengthen others while showing me each moment how dependent I am on Him! I have been challenged with the fact that although God gives us gifts to use to serve others, relying on our gifts and talents alone does not glorify God. We have to rely on Him to do the work through us, and in this way He is glorified. I have seen that this internship is not just about serving others, but it has also revealed the idols of my own heart, as I fight to demolish them.

I believe I speak for everyone when I say that an internship at Vision of Hope is a challenging, stretching, and life-changing experience. God not only uses the internship to give ladies an opportunity here to serve the women in our program, but He also uses it to soften hearts and reveal areas where we all need to grow to look more like Him.

If you are interested in taking part in the internship here at VOH, contact our Intern Coordinator, Jenn Heikkinen, at jheikkinen@faithlafayette.org

Bethany Dunn
Bethany heard about Vision of Hope while attending Word of Life Bible Institute in Florida. When she began praying about what God wanted her to do after graduating, He kept bringing Vision of Hope to her mind. Knowing that there was an internship available, Bethany applied, was accepted, and began her internship with VOH in July, 2012. Since then she has been amazed at the opportunities God has given her to learn more about His Word and how it applies to everyday life. Bethany now serves on staff at Vision of Hope.