Interested in coming on placement to Coventry for six-twelve months?
A Volunteer Reconciliation Internship at Coventry Cathedral is a unique experience for those seeking to develop their understanding of reconciliation as part of a dynamic Christian community, while contributing to the overall life of our world-famous Cathedral at the heart of this young, multicultural and diverse city. It offers the opportunity to:
- Gain experience in a busy, multi-partner working environment,
- Develop skills in logistics, project management, research, administration, presentation and communications, and
- Learn and explore a range of issues in relation to the theology, practice and spirituality of reconciliation.
The volunteer intern role is predominately office-based during the Cathedral office hours of 09:00 to 17:00 Mondays through Fridays, with some evening and weekend work supporting events and bookings (for which time off is taken in lieu). The internship length is flexible, with a minimum period of 6 months, starting usually in September. We aim to have two-three volunteer interns at any one time; interns live and work with other young interns from different countries, all just a short direct train journey away from both Birmingham and London.
At present, two of the posts are sponsored by partners in Germany and North America and are reserved for nationals from Germany (applying via Aktion Suhnezeichen Friedensdienste) and the United States or Canada.
Eligibility
To be eligible for an internship, prospective interns should:
- Be over 18 years of age at the time internship commences (German candidates), and ideally over 21 years of age (North American and UK/other Interns)
- Be a practising Christian
- Have an interest in reconciliation and peace building
- Demonstrate sufficient proficiency in spoken and written English
- Be a good communicator
- Be able to work independently with minimal supervision
- Be able to work as part of a team
- Be able to pass a DBS background check
It is also desired that the prospective intern have:
- A degree in an appropriate discipline (e.g. International Relations, Politics, Public Policy, Peace or Conflict Studies, Development Studies, Theology) (US/Canadian/UK candidates);
- Good IT and social media skills
Duties
All Volunteer Intern posts will involve giving regular support to the Community of the Cross of Nails, Events, Schools, Welcome and Ministry teams, to include:
- Researching and communicating with partners (or translating communications) as required;
- Inputting to the planning and evaluation of activity;
- Offering a hospitable welcome to visitors of varying seniority from around the world, ranging from preparing and providing refreshments for groups, to welcoming day visitors within the Cathedral nave, giving tours and presentations, and preparing accommodation;
- Drafting newsletters, creating flyers, writing blog and social media posts;
- Providing logistical support and hospitality for pilgrimages, visits and other events and meetings;
- Facilitating meetings bookings, including setting up and cleaning up from meetings and events, and co-ordination of access;
- Supporting Cathedral, Diocesan and/or City reconciliation events;
- Logistically and practically supporting Cathedral life in all its forms.
Additionally, volunteers are encouraged to become involved in the Cathedral Community and the worship and/or musical life of the Cathedral, by participating in services and acts of worship as they feel led.
Costs & Support
The Cathedral will provide:
- Accommodation – free on site in Dewis Lodge, with a private study bedroom;
- Volunteer day-to-day expenses up to £275 per month;
- Expenses, including travel, incurred in the performance of duties.
- Organised visits to some of our CCN partners each summer, towards the end of their stay with us. Read about last year's visits to CCN partners here.
Application process for US/Canada and UK interns
in the first instance are by CV and covering letter to the Community of the Cross of Nails Co-ordinator (Email: email hidden; JavaScript is required). Please include in the letter how your skills and experience support the eligibility requirements and duties, why you are interested in the position, and what your expectations of the volunteer internship are. Applicants will then be invited to an online interview. Although normally starting each September, a vacancy may occur at different points in the year. Prospective applicants should enquire about current and forthcoming vacancies before submitting their CV.
