The Presbytery of San Fernando is pleased to introduce our two Ministry Apprentices: Niki Rodas and Stephen Robertson.
The idea of an apprentice program stemmed from the perception that often seminary graduates could benefit from practical exposure to the life of the church to better deal with the responsibilities foisted on them as they assume calls as solo pastors.
The Apprentice Program was created by the Committee on Ministry and met the approval of the Property and Finance Committee in April 2019. Initially identified three mentoring congregations, La Cañada, First Burbank and First Granada Hills. Those churches would take on the responsibility to mentor a recent seminary graduate for a year, having the Apprentice serve approximately 70% of their time in the mentoring congregation, acquiring new skills and honing their gifts. The remaining 30% of the Apprentice’s’ time would be in smaller congregations in the presbytery, observing and serving with Pulpit supply, Bible Studies etc.
Both have graduated with a Master of Divinity degree from Fuller Theological Seminary and are certified-ready for ordination.
Niki Rodas was born in Michigan and has acquired plenty of experience in the areas of disciple making in Christian Education. She was active in the Global Missions team at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood. Her primary congregation is First Presbyterian Church of Burbank.
Stephen Robertson was born in Inglewood, CA and his parents are from Missouri. Stephen has served as a liturgist, Session member and youth ministry leader at Angeles Mesa Presbyterian Church. He has also served as a committee member in the Pacific Presbytery. His primary congregation is First Presbyterian Church of Granada Hills.