Servant Year uses the common application for the Episcopal Service Corps. The application can be found here: https://episcopalservicecorps.org/apply/
Servant Year welcomes applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds, experiences, and Christian traditions. While the program is rooted in the theology, worship, and common life of The Episcopal Church, individuals do not need to be Episcopalian in order to apply or participate. Many members come from different denominational traditions, other faith backgrounds, or are in active seasons of spiritual searching and discernment.
At the same time, because Servant Year is an intentional Christian community centered around shared worship and common practice, all members — regardless of personal background or tradition — are expected to participate fully and actively in the life of the program. This includes participation in worship, prayer, retreats, formation gatherings, community responsibilities, service commitments, and the shared rhythms of the Rule of Common Life.
Applicants should understand that Servant Year is not simply a volunteer placement or professional development opportunity, but a holistic experience of Christian community and formation. Members are asked to enter the life of the community with openness, humility, curiosity, and a willingness to engage practices and traditions that may at times be unfamiliar.
The program values the gifts and perspectives that individuals from diverse backgrounds bring to the community and believes that faithful, respectful engagement across traditions strengthens both the community itself and the discernment process of each member. Servant Year and the Community of St. James do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, age, height, weight, physical or mental ability, veteran status, military obligations, and marital status.
If you have any questions, email the Rev. Andrew Kellner: [email protected]
Care Funds
Because Servant Year is membership in an intentional Christian community rather than simply a job or volunteer placement, the program seeks to care for members as whole persons. These resources reflect the community’s commitment to mutual care, shared responsibility, and creating a stable foundation from which members can fully participate in worship, service, community life, and vocational discernment.
Servant Year members receive housing at St. James in individual rooms. Members also receive a monthly stipend ($600 for 1st year; $1,200 for 2nd year), and are encouraged to participate in a retirement savings plan in which the program matches member contributions up to $1,100. Members receive health/dental/vision insurance with no charge to themselves, and the program covers all co-pays for required care and medications. Local transportation stipend is available as needed in the form of SEPTA funds/passes. Community vehicles are also available for use.
Care Funds Overview Care Funds are a way the SY Program supports you throughout your year of service. These funds are available to assist with specific expenses, including:
Travel - $1,000
Clothing - $500
Communications - $50 per month for cell phone
Professional Development - $500
Education/Transition Award - $5,000
Monthly Common Goods Fund - $50 per member in the community
Community Hospitality Funds
All categories—except the Education/Transition Award—are intended to support you during your active program commitment.