At KINDLE, we know you want to start strong in your ministry….

…and be a highly-effective and valuable contributor to the pastoral staff and your teammates. To be effective, you need an opportunity to pause and process early in your ministry.

Being new to your ministry context, you may have discovered that reality is different from what you thought. Busyness and the drive to do more, coupled with developing a brand new support network is hard. It can make you feel isolated, unsure, and tired.

We believe that you shouldn’t have to go it alone.

Your ministry and your call should have a strong foundation of support.

KINDLE First Five

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Since 2010, KINDLE First Five has has helped 140+ participants from around the country cultivate healthier habits and faith lives.

In addition to valuable peer connection, our circle coaches bring a track record of sustained, long-term ministry rooted in the KINDLE DNA. Every coach is an experienced ministry leader with the desire to invest in and support new church workers.

KINDLE FIRST FIVE EVENT

During the 4 day training event, you’ll experience rest, connection (to God and others), and rejuvenation. You’ll develop a peer network, discover practical ministry tools, and walk away with a personalized growth plan.

The event takes place at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, Illinois. The event begins on Monday at 5:00 p.m. and concludes before lunch on Thursday.

The KINDLE First Five event features eight learning modules that focus on current ministry issues, challenges, and concerns of new ministry professionals in the context of Christ-like servant leadership. The rhythm includes:

  • Engaging participants in worship three times a day.

  • Time is scheduled for physical exercise, fellowship, networking, meals, and quiet time.

  • Concrete ways to guard yourself against isolation, drift, and burnout.

  • How to take the time to reflect on what you’ve learned, and consider what the next steps might be.

  • Being refreshed through rest, being encouraged by peers, and being reignited through connection with God.

Get Started with KINDLE Five

  1. Apply to KINDLE Five — Registration will open soon, so save your seat!

  2. Attend the 4-Day training event where you will pause and process with peers.

  3. Equipped with a personal growth plan, experience a healthier life and faith in Christ.

  • Alex Lillis

    2021 Participant

    “I loved that this event addressed different aspects of ministry as well as health and wellness. And a great focus on our identity as a baptized and beloved child of God.”

  • Nathan Toenjes

    2024 Participant

    “I really appreciate the intentional, conversational approach, clearly outlined yet personalized. Time for everyone to make it their own and apply to their context together with peers. And some time built in for test and rejuvenation. Remarkably well done.”

  • Susanna Danner

    2023 Participant

    “I understand my role as a 2nd Chair leader more fully and that I can take back what I have learned about that leadership and be more confident in the role God has given me in my congregation.”

Apply for KINDLE First Five

KINDLE First Five is for those who are in their first five years in ministry, whether a college graduate or starting a second career.

Check out the “Manage Anxiety and Conflict” episode of KINDLE’s podcast to hear from First Five Dean, Brian Amey, on an important topic discussed during the training event.

Click on the application link below to complete your application and submit the registration fee. The registration fee of $875 for KINDLE First Five covers program, lodging, and meals during the four-day event at the University of St. Mary of the Lake. Transportation to and from Mundelein is not covered.

The generosity of KINDLE donors underwrites the KINDLE First Five experience. Even so, KINDLE realizes the registration fee is a challenge for some participants and their congregations. A limited number of grants are available to make this highly beneficial experience accessible to the greatest number of young church workers. Submit a form to apply for these funds.

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Check out this Q&A session to meet members of the training team and learn more about this opportunity!

Apply Now

  1. Complete your registration information here. Registration Deadline: June 15, 2026.

  2. Submit a registration fee of $125 (due with your online registration):

    Pay Online here or by check mailed to:
    KINDLE
    8608 Poplar Bridge Curve
    Bloomington, MN 55437

  3. If needed, please submit this form to apply for a grant after you’ve completed the initial registration form.