Catholic Parliamentary Internship (CPI)
Young Catholics making a difference in the public square
A year's intensive experience of political and social action in a spiritual context
Now in its sixth year, this scheme will provide five recently graduated Catholics with an intensive experience of political and social action in a spiritual context. Three interns will be placed with Christian MPs at Westminster and two with Christian MEPs in Brussels. At least one public affairs internship with a national Catholic organisation will also be available.
London-based interns join part-time MA students for one evening a week during the autumn and spring terms at Heythrop College, University of London for modules on Catholic Social Teaching and Foundations of Christian Ethics. (Equivalent studies for Brussels based interns).
Interns are selected on the basis of ability and potential to gain most benefit from this unique experience. Financial support is provided which will fund accommodation, living and travel costs for the duration of the internship.
Candidates for Brussels internships will be required to demonstrate good working knowledge if French.
All internships will run from September 2009 - July 2010.
All applicants must be UK citizens.
Closing date for applications: 2nd March 2009
Assessment Centre: March 2009
Internship Commences: September 2009
Internship Ends: July 2010
What can an intern expect?
• Opening and closing individually guided retreat, and spiritual guidance.
• Studying Christian ethics and Catholic social teaching.
• Visits including to the Vatican.
• Exploring the Church’s involvement in social action through events and visits to projects.
The Common Good
The internship programme grew out of The Common Good and the Catholic Church's Social Teaching and seeks to affirm politics as an important and valuable vocation. It also encourages Christians who want to create a better society through public service.