Knox Presbyterian - Director/Associate Pastor of Youth Ministries

Ministry Architects; Illinois; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established ministry is seeking a passionate individual to lead youth ministry efforts, connecting students in grades 6-12 to their faith through engaging discussions and activities. This role involves spiritual leadership, volunteer recruitment, and program development to foster a vibrant community. The ideal candidate will possess a strong commitment to inclusivity, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth, and will work collaboratively with families to support their spiritual journeys. Join a caring and vibrant community in Naperville, a top-rated city for living and raising families, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people.

Qualifications

• Commitment to loving and ministering to all youth, including affirming LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Ability to teach biblically sound and culturally relevant lessons.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary shepherd for the vision of youth ministry.
• Develop relationships with youth and families fostering inclusion and collaboration.
• Design and implement programs promoting spiritual growth and engagement.

Skills

Youth Ministry Experience

Biblical Teaching

Effective Communication

Volunteer Leadership

Relationship Building

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Ministry-related Field

Master's Degree in Ministry-related Field

Job description

About the Church

Knox Pres is a PCUSA congregation nestled in the tree-lined streets of Naperville, IL, a western suburb of Chicago. Members describe their church as caring, inclusive, and vibrant. Knox has six core values that are vital to their community: “Lives are changed by Jesus. We are together in highs and lows. We take fun seriously. Kids grow here. Service is hands-on. We cultivate curiosity.”

About the Ministry

Youth ministry at Knox incorporates students in grades 6-12 into a variety of formation and fellowship opportunities spread regularly through Sundays and Wednesdays, as well as special events. A particular love of the congregation is the Go & Serve mission trip each summer, which also incorporates young adults (ages 18-22) in important mentor roles. Regularly, there are around 40 middle and high school students present at at least one ministry offering a week, supported by eight weekly volunteers from a pool of fifteen dedicated adults. A well-developed Youth Council is a pre-existing body of support for the incoming staff person.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate would have experience working with young people in the church as well as education in a ministry related field. A wholehearted commitment to loving and ministering to all youth, including affirming LGBTQ+ individuals, is non-negotiable. Connecting youth to their faith through discussion and deep questions will be key in the Knox community.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary shepherd for the vision of youth ministry at Knox Presbyterian Church.
• Provide spiritual leadership to middle and high school students and their families,
  equipping students to become followers of Christ and encouraging them to be more active inthe church.
• Develop relationships with youth and families that foster a sense of belonging, inclusion, collaboration, acceptance, and fun.
• Recruit, train/equip, encourage, and lead a strong network of volunteers.
• Be a resource for parents and guardians in need of support and guidance as they parent their student(s), serving as a spiritual advisor, confidant, and resource for youth and their families.
• Design and/or implement curriculum and programs that promote spiritual growth, personal development, and youth engagement.
• Minister to young adults (up to age 22) and keep them connected to the church.

Qualifications

• A vital and growing relationship with Jesus Christ and a commitment to seeing lives changedby Jesus.
  
• Able to teach biblically sound and culturally relevant lessons and communicate effectively in various settings.
• Personal faith consistent with Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) theology and polity.
• A commitment to excellence combining a strong personal work ethic and a balanced lifestyle.
• Organize and manage various programs with flexibility, creativity, and enthusiasm while setting appropriate boundaries.
• Bachelor’s Degree required, Master’s Degree preferred in a ministry-related field.

About the Community

Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children, and retire. This vibrant, thriving city is home to nearly 150,000 residents, acclaimed schools, the best public library system in the country, world-class parks, an array of healthcare providers, and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment choices.