Summer of Service (SOS) is a chance for you to serve as a volunteer at the Christian conference and retreat center Schloss Heroldeck in Millstatt, Austria while deepening your everyday discipleship to Jesus and practicing it in community.
In 2024, all applications with a three-month commitment will have priority in our selection process.
Please note that sending in your application does not guarantee a spot in the SOS program.
We highly recommend reading our Summer of Service FAQ below before applying to SOS
Please note that sending in your application does not guarantee a spot in the SOS program.
We highly recommend reading our Summer of Service FAQ below before applying to SOS
The MISSION
Our mission at Schloss Heroldeck is to "Refresh the Saints" by providing a place for our guests to rest and regain strength for their ministry. Through practical work, you will contribute to completing this mission and bless many.
THE Program
EXPERIENCE SERVICE
Our hearts behind this summer is not to belittle the fact that you work hard, but you will get the chance to experience what true servanthood looks like. Mark 9:35 says, "If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all." We desire to see that same attitude as you diligently serve. There are many departments in which practical skills are used such as housekeeping, dining room, coffee shop, etc. Your service will ultimately be unto the Lord above all. Be apart of a team that's passionate about refreshing the saints through the ministry of service. |
ENCOUNTER JESUS
Those coming to serve this summer will be given opportunity to grow in their relationships with the Lord in ways that they have never encountered. While on earth Jesus was the perfect example of living in communion with His Father while selflessly serving others. We desire the same in those who come. This will entail daily devotions, sharing testimonies, corporate prayer and worship nights, and fellowship. Have an expectant heart to encounter Jesus and be open to growing in many different ways. |
EXPLORE CULTURE
Go beyond the tourist facade of visiting new countries and explore with us local cultures both past and present, being exposed to different languages, sights, smells, tastes, and a diversity of people for both an exhilarating and overwhelming experience. You will be able to explore Austria and the surrounding countries, expanding your cultural knowledge while furthering the kingdom of God. |
PROGRAM DETAILS
Summer DatesTBA |
TravelWe ask that you be responsible for providing your own airfare and travel to get from your current destination to the castle. If coming from any airport, you will need to take a train from there to the Spittal-Millstaettersee Hbf. From the train station, our staff will be there to greet you and bring you to the castle. If you have any questions or need help situating your travel, we will do our best to help! |
Ways to Serve
This is a summer of serving and students will help in the following areas as needed:
What to BringWe will send a packing list once you have been accepted into the program. |
SOS fee & PAyment infoTBA |
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Summer of SERVICE FAQ
Our FAQ is in no particular order. We recommend reading through all questions before applying for SOS.
How many hours of volunteer work will i be doing per week?
Up to 40 hours per week.
Will I have OFF DAYS throughout the Week?
Yes, you will have off days throughout the week to rest and recharge.
Are alcohol and tobacco permitted?
No! The use of alcoholic beverages and tobacco is NOT permitted for the duration of the Summer of Service program.
ARe there shops nearby to buy toiletries or groceries?
We are about a 15-minute walk from a large grocery store that sells almost everything you could possibly need (Note: shops are closed on Sundays).
Do you offer meals for the volunteers?
Yes, we offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily for all volunteers.
How do the accommodation arrangements look like?
As a male, you will live in a male dorm, and as a female, you will live in a female dorm. The dorms will be overseen by a dorm steward.
Can i do my laundry during my time AT Summer of service?
Yes, you can do your laundry once a week for no extra charge.
Do I need medical insurance?
Yes, in Austria everyone must have medical insurance by law. Therefore, you must be insured when you arrive.
For those outside of the EU:
In Austria you normally pay the bill immediately in cash/credit card and then hand the receipt in to your insurance company and they will pay you back.
For those outside of the EU:
In Austria you normally pay the bill immediately in cash/credit card and then hand the receipt in to your insurance company and they will pay you back.
HOw much Spending money shall i bring?
This is a very individual consideration.
We have an on-site coffee house that offers coffee, milkshakes, and other snacks. We might be able to go on some trips too and you'll be able to purchase some souvenirs or we'll go out to eat.
We have an on-site coffee house that offers coffee, milkshakes, and other snacks. We might be able to go on some trips too and you'll be able to purchase some souvenirs or we'll go out to eat.
I want to Travel during my time at sos. Is this possible?
No, this is not possible. We ask that you travel before or after your time at SOS. Please keep in mind that we can not make any exceptions and ask for your full commitment to participate in the program.
CAN i come to SOS before June 1st?
Please contact us if you would like to come earlier at [email protected]
I am under 16 years old. Can I still apply for SOS?
Unfortunately, for this year we are not making any exceptions for people under 16 years old.
I am Older than 24 years. Is there an option for me to Volunteer?
Please don't hesitate to contact us at [email protected]
When will i know, that i have been accepted into the SOS program?
We are unable to give you a specific date, due to the thoroughness of our application process. But we will get back to you in a timely matter, so you can make all necessary arrangements. Please keep an eye on your junk and/or spam folder too.
Will i have internet access at schloss heroldeck?
Yes, we have complimentary WiFi access on the whole property.
Can the person who brings me to SOS spend the night AT Schloss Heroldeck before driving/Flying back home?
Yes, they can, BUT we have limited accommodation available for booking in Summer. So please send a booking request to [email protected] as soon as possible.
What does the discipleship aspect of SOS like?
We want to focus on assisting you in living daily and boldly with Jesus. In every situation. We hope to deepen our everyday discipleship to Jesus through intentional morning devotions, topical workshops, implementing spiritual disciplines, and more.
What is the benefit of practicing everyday discipleship to JESUS in COMMUNITY?
You can gain encouragement and profit from accountability that you may not always have.
Do i have to commit to the whole three months of SOS?
No, you do not have to commit to the whole three months, but we would like to ask you to at least commit to one month of service.
All applications with a one-month or more commitment will be prioritized.
All applications with a one-month or more commitment will be prioritized.
We are excited that you are considering our summer of service program
and are excited to see what the Lord has in store for you. You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] for any questions you have. We can't wait to meet you. Jonathan & Esther Bohn Directors Schloss Heroldeck |