Talitha’s Intern year
Planting Seeds: Talitha’s Journey through the Commission Intern Year
“God has given me strength I didn’t know I had—and placed kind, wise people around me to support and guide me.”
From Passion to Practice
From Basingstoke to Bournemouth, Talitha took a bold step into hands-on ministry by joining the Commission Intern Year. With a heart for children and a desire to grow her practical faith, this year has been full of learning, laughter, and discovering God’s call in new and unexpected ways.
“I’ve always had a heart for children’s ministry. Growing up, I loved helping out in kids work—probably because I saw my dad do it every week and because my leaders made such an impact on me. Now, I get to do the same for the children I serve. What a privilege!”
Before joining the Intern Year, Talitha was part of Mosaic Church in Basingstoke. Through a connection between her leader Martin and Sean Theunissen at Citygate Church, a new opportunity opened up. She moved to Bournemouth—knowing no one—and joined the team at Citygate as a children’s ministry intern.
“I didn’t always know I’d do an internship like this. I was struggling with my studies and looking for something more hands-on—something that gave me real experience of church life. So I applied. And I’m so glad I did.”
Growing in Ministry
This past year, Talitha has served with Fearless Roots, Citygate’s group for 5–7 year-olds. She’s grown in confidence and capability, developing practical ministry skills—everything from event planning to team communication and time management—while staying anchored in a heart for discipleship.
“One of the best parts has been those lightbulb moments with the children—like the time we were talking about prayer, and a child said, ‘God finally heard me when He wasn’t listening to someone else.’ I got to explain that God can hear all of us at the same time, and it blew his mind. Being part of moments like that is just the best kind of joy.”
It’s not just the kids who’ve grown. Talitha reflects that stepping out of her comfort zone helped her grow personally, too.
“Moving to a new city, joining a new church, starting from scratch—it was challenging. But that challenge has made me more independent and taught me how to learn from others. The kids helped me so much—even just laughing with me when I forgot their names!”
Talitha at an intern residential training block
Looking Ahead
Being part of the Commission Intern Year has given her a deeper understanding of what ministry actually looks like day to day, and helped her discern a long-term calling to serve in church life.
“This year has shown me what I’m passionate about and how to grow in it. I’ve seen how diverse and beautiful the Church can be, and why it’s so important that everyone—especially children—has a place to belong and grow.”
Thinking about doing the Commission Intern Year?
Talitha has some advice:
“Go for it. Know what you’re passionate about and take that step. You’ll be surprised at the strength God gives you and the people He places around you to cheer you on.”
Want to explore how the Commission Intern Year could shape your calling?
This blog was inspired by Citygate Church's blog
