Children's Ministry Director

Experiencing Worship; San Jose, Bridgeport (CA, CT); On-site; USD 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established community church is seeking a passionate Children's Ministry Director to lead and inspire young disciples. This full-time role involves overseeing a vibrant children's program that nurtures spiritual growth and fosters a safe, engaging environment. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of children's ministry, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to inclusivity. You'll have the opportunity to shape the spiritual formation of children and collaborate with dedicated volunteers, making a lasting impact on families in a diverse community. If you are ready to guide the next generation in their faith journey, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Vacation

Sick Leave

Qualifications

• Extensive experience working with children from birth through 5th grade.
• Skilled in team leadership and relationship building.
• Trained in Godly Play or willing to undergo training.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Sunday morning children's program and manage adult volunteers.
• Plan and coordinate milestone events for Kids Community.
• Select and develop curriculum for children from birth to fifth grade.

Skills

Team Leadership

Relationship Building

Problem Solving

Conflict Resolution

Written Communication

Oral Communication

Visual Communication

Multicultural Sensitivity

Experience with Children

Godly Play Training

Education

College Degree

Tools

Various Computer Programs

Job description

PURPOSE OF ROLE
The River Church Community is seeking a leader passionate about children's ministry and family spiritual formation to serve as Children's Ministry Director or Pastor. The ideal candidate will bring a developmental approach to spiritual formation, see parents as primary partners in children's spiritual formation, and view kids as full participants in the church.
CONTEXT
The River Church Community is located in San Jose, CA, with a Sunday morning average attendance of approximately 200 adults. We distinguish ourselves through three characteristics: authentic spirituality that permeates all aspects of life; a holistic mission that ministers to the whole person and the broken world; and a diverse community ethnically, generationally, and socioeconomically (though we acknowledge a tendency toward professional backgrounds). We are affiliated with the Evangelical Covenant Church.
At the River Church Community, we value children as growing disciples of Christ and aim to provide opportunities for them to worship, learn, build relationships, and play. Kids' Community is our Sunday morning experience for children from birth through 5th grade, guided by an experiential, Montessori-influenced philosophy. Our core program uses the Godly Play curriculum adapted for our non-liturgical setting. Each Sunday, about 50-70 children attend, supported by approximately 40 rotating volunteer ministers. Additionally, we offer periodic parent training, equipping opportunities, and childcare for various church events.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee the Sunday morning children's program, including recruiting, scheduling, and supervising around 40 adult volunteers across two services.
- Foster a healthy ministry environment with engaging activities and programming for each age group to facilitate learning and spiritual growth.
- Ensure a safe and welcoming environment by managing classroom spaces, training volunteers, and providing oversight during Sunday services.
- Plan, manage, and coordinate milestone events, special occasions, and community events for Kids Community.
- Organize special events such as an annual summer Maker Camp and a biennial all-church retreat children's programming.
- Participate in staff meetings and church activities, providing insights on children and families.
- Select and develop curriculum for each age group from birth to fifth grade.
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:
- A mature, emotionally healthy Christ-following individual.
- Agreement with and active support for the values and mission of The River Church Community.
- Extensive knowledge and experience working with children from birth through 5th grade.
- College degree preferred or equivalent experience.
- Skilled in team leadership, relationship building, problem solving, and conflict resolution.
- Proficient in written, oral, and visual communication tailored to different age groups and stakeholders.
- Trained in Godly Play or willing to undergo training.
- Sensitivity to and experience working in a multicultural and multiracial environment.
- Proficiency in various computer programs.
COMPENSATION
The River offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, sick leave, health insurance, and a salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Note: We are seeking to fill this role as a full-time position. Previously, the Children's Ministry was staffed by two part-time roles: a Director and an Administrative Associate. We are open to a similar arrangement for the right candidates.
If interested, please submit your resume to [e-mail].