Find your place.

Lead the way.

Telos Residency is a 10-month leadership program that equips the next generation to find their place in the mission of God and lead the way to a more innovative Church that creatively engages the needs and injustices around them.

  • Employment

    Telos Residents are employed by local non-profits or community-based ministries that are engaging the community in transformative ways. This is a paid position that provides valuable experience and safe space to learn and grow.

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  • Education

    Telos Residents learn from seasoned leaders through practical, hands-on experiences. They have the option of receiving a MA in Strategic Ministry from Johnson University. This is an accelerated online degree.

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  • Housing

    Telos Residents live cost-free in host homes in the urban core of Knoxville. Our host families believe in and live out the mission of Telos and provide supportive relational environments for residents to learn and grow.

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  • Retreats

    Telos Residents go on four retreats throughout the course of the program. These retreats are focused on building relationships, discovering calling, spiritual formation, and rest.

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  • Mentorship

    Telos Residents are mentored by local Kingdom leaders. Our mentors provide a safe and consistent space for the residents to process life and ministry throughout the duration of the program.

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  • "This was one of the most formative years of my life! My expectations were that I might make new friends, gain work experience, and get a degree, but it turned out to be so much more than that. This is an experience that I will take with me for the rest of my life!"

    Alexis Lister

  • "Telos Residency's greatest offering is the opportunity to experience the love of God through the kindness and hospitality of the Dever family. They make Telos a safe place for questions, refinement, challenge, and growth. It is such a joy to be a part of this community."

    Carly Shoup

  • "Telos has taught me to slow down and notice the voice and work of God in the world. This includes creating space to pay attention and listen… a sort of spirituality that feels fresh. For that I’m grateful."

    Zeru Fitsum

  • "Telos places a high value on humans as holistic beings - mind, body, and spirit. All of TR works to integrate those three things and teach about God's redemption in every area of our life. The trials and joys that came with this program have better equipped me to serve others from a place of union with God. The leadership is authentic, trustworthy, and wholly seeking God's kingdom here on earth."

    Dana Jones

  • "Telos is unique—unlike any program that you have ever heard of before. You are given a place to serve, be mentored by great, Kingdom-minded people, and explore the gifts that God has given you. But what distinguishes Telos is the an emphasis on faith in action. It's one thing to talk in the classroom. It's a completely different to put it into practice."

    Jesse Merkel

  • "Telos was a catalytic year for me-setting the trajectory of my life and shaping me into the woman I want to be. I learned how to cultivate rhythms of rest and create a rule of life that allows me to grow in communion with Jesus."

    Hannah Eddins