Launched in 2020, the Grace Covenant Apprenticeship Program (GAPP) is a 12-month, vocational and discipleship-based experience designed for high school graduates ages 18-24. Apprentices gain hands-on leadership development while learning practical, transferable skills through real ministry experience in the local church. 
 
To date, more than 20 apprentices have completed the program. Some have continued their education, others have stepped directly into the workforce, and several have gone on to serve as highly contributing members of the Grace Covenant staff. 
 
Note: Applicants must be between 18 and 24 years old at the start of the program. 

Each apprentice is supported by a clearly defined discipleship structure that includes a mentor, an assigned ministry supervisor, and the GAPP Director. This team walks closely with each apprentice throughout the year, providing guidance, encouragement, and accountability.
 
In addition, apprentices participate in a weekly two-hour gathering called the Download. During these sessions, apprentices hear from Grace Covenant pastors and staff, as well as from trusted marketplace leaders, who share practical insights on ministry, leadership, vocation, and spiritual formation. 
 
Apprentices also have the opportunity to pursue affordable online education through our partnership with Life Pacific University (LPU). LPU holds the highest level of accreditation and offers pathways toward a one-year ministry certificate, as well as Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees. 
 
(See below for more information.) 

A typical week varies depending on the ministry area to which an apprentice is assigned. In addition to the weekly two-hour Download, apprentices commit to approximately 22 hours per week serving within their ministry area. 
 
This commitment includes Sunday responsibilities and assigned hours during the week. Apprentices are compensated for the hours they work. 

Life Pacific University and Grace Covenant are partnering to offer students an accredited, affordable online degree integrated with a hands-on, immersive training experience. These partnerships offer the best of both worlds: accredited Biblical education and practical ministry experience.

Life Pacific University is a WSCUC- and ABHE-accredited institution of biblical higher education, existing to transform students into leaders prepared to serve God in the Church, the workplace, and the world. 
 
The university is affiliated with The Foursquare Church and is committed to an enduring Pentecostal mission. Since its founding in 1923, LPU has offered high-quality Christian education to learners seeking to be equipped for their vocation and spiritual journey. 

The goal of LPU is to help develop a new generation of leaders with accessible, low-cost, high-quality education from a faith-based, spirit-filled perspective. More specifically, LPU partners with the local church to help the next generation of leaders discover their call while cultivating a Christian perspective and leadership skills to carry it out. 

Because of our partnership with Life Pacific University (LPU), this is a question we’re often asked. 
 
Not at all. While apprentices are encouraged to take advantage of this hands-on, immersive educational opportunity, enrollment as a partnership student at LPU is not limited to those participating in the Grace Covenant Apprenticeship Program. 
 
LPU also offers affordable, flexible online learning options designed for adult learners balancing home, family, and work responsibilities. These pathways provide an opportunity to continue—or even begin—an educational journey later in life. 
 

Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies
Associate of Arts in General Studies 
Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership 
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management 
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology 
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts & Media 

Together, the Grace Covenant Apprenticeship Program and our partnership with Life Pacific University offer a unique, integrated pathway for growth in both faith and vocation. Apprentices experience high-quality, affordable academics alongside hands-on leadership development and vocational skill training—all within the highly relational environment of the local church. 
 
For adult learners not part of the apprenticeship program, our partnership with LPU still provides an accessible opportunity to pursue accredited, flexible online education while continuing to invest in family, work, and ministry. Whether through the apprenticeship or as a partnership student, this pathway is designed to support lifelong learning and faithful vocational discernment.