Thank you for your interest in the Summer Training & Equipping Program (STEP).  The program will require a major investment in terms of time and energy. The goal of this program is to equip a believer to stand in Christ and to prepare the students to make a difference in the lives of others by knowing Him.  In order to make the best use of the summer, it will be necessary to come into the program with a proper mindset.  We are looking for candidates who are ready to put their hand to the plow and work hard for the Lord.

 The program starts on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026.  We will have classroom sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.  We will also have Saturday seminars, field trips, service projects, and other ministry opportunities. On Sundays, students will be actively involved in chapel ministries, including Sunday school and the sharing of a testimony and/or devotional at the Family Bible Hour. Homework will be given each week, and can be expected to take between 10 and 12 hours per week. We plan on providing some sort of discipleship, either one-on-one or in small groups, to provide accountability and support throughout the program.

 Along with the spiritual rigors of the program, we are encouraging every student to have a job and work for at least 15 hours a week. In lieu of work, those who plan to take high school or college classes for the summer will need to declare that on the application. Those who are not able to find work will be asked to serve in various chapel-related projects. The minimum age requirement for the program is 16. If you are unable to drive, you must take responsibility to be on time for every event.

 We would like to provide an environment outside of the regular classes for students to get to know each other more and have a deeper study in the Word. We plan to spend a “week away” at an off-site facility. The dates are July 27th to July 31st (leaving the 26th evening, following Celebration Sunday).

 It is the desire of the elders that each student gets involved in various ministries at the local church after graduation and uses their time wisely to serve God and other believers. Towards the end of the program, the elders will review each student and recommend appropriate ministry opportunities for them. Some will be asked to be part of the SKOPOS discipleship program at Hillview and Grace Bible Chapel.

 We expect the cost of the program to be approximately $200 for books and materials. In addition, the students will pay $250 for the week away expenses. Housing and living expenses will depend upon the individual's personal circumstances.