Faith in Politics is named on the Vatican’s website Laity Involved as an example of best practice formation of the lay faithful.

There are two internship placement options to choose from:

Parliament Stream

CAFOD Stream

Interns commit to a varied year exploring the political landscape and the Church’s involvement in social action. This occurs first and foremost in their work placements with Members of Parliament and CAFOD, the Church’s overseas aid agency.

Integrated spiritual guidance

Importantly, the internship journey begins and ends with a retreat, and spiritual guidance is an integral part of the year. The group lives together in a community, and at the end of the year they join a network of over 100 alumni.

Immersive teaching and regular volunteering

Interns take part in a Catholic Social Teaching seminar programme which, combined with regular volunteering opportunities, means the year is an immersive experience designed to develop interns’ understanding of what it means to be a Catholic today.

Pilgrimages to Rome and the Holy Land

During the year, the Faith in Politics team leads the interns on two pilgrimages: to Rome and the Holy Land. The visit to Rome includes a pilgrimage to Assisi, as well as meetings with officials to learn how the Vatican works and how the UK relates to the Holy See. In the Holy Land, the interns will make pilgrimages to holy sites and learn about the history of the Church and the ongoing challenges in the region.