Youth Pastor Catalyst Church

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Artesia (NM); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Artesia, New Mexico, is seeking a passionate Youth Pastor to lead their student ministry. This full-time role centers on developing meaningful discipleship environments and building relationships with students and families. The ideal candidate will be a relational leader, experience in youth ministry is preferred, and a strong connection with Jesus Christ is essential. Responsibilities include leading student gatherings, organizing events, and empowering volunteers within the church.

Qualifications

• Experience leading or serving in student ministry within a church context.
• Strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Ability to lead, organize, and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee weekly student worship and Bible study gatherings.
• Organize student events throughout the year.
• Recruit and develop volunteers for the ministry.
• Communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Build meaningful relationships with students.

Skills

Relational leadership

Team building

Biblical communication

Discipleship

Education

Formal Bible training

Job description

ABOUT CATALYST CHURCH

Catalyst Church is a young, growing, and vibrant church in Artesia, New Mexico. In June 2025 we moved into a new facility, and in January 2026 we celebrated our 10th anniversary. Our attendance averages over 250, up from 211 last year, and we have celebrated 27 baptisms in the last nine months.

We value hard work and genuine joy. Our staff culture is built on teamwork, humility, and fun, and we believe that students who participate in worship, media, and kids ministry thrive in a community that encourages their growth.

ABOUT THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

We seek a passionate, relational, and mission‑minded Youth Pastor who is excited to disciple the next generation and invest deeply in the lives of students in Artesia and the surrounding community. This is not a program‑management role; it is a relational leadership opportunity focused on discipleship, spiritual formation, and raising up young leaders who actively participate in the life of the church.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Youth Pastor will lead and shape the student ministry by developing meaningful discipleship environments, equipping volunteers, and building relationships with students and families.

Your leadership will help cultivate:

• A vibrant weekly student gathering centered on worship, biblical teaching, and authentic community
• Strong discipleship pathways that help students grow in their relationship with Jesus
• A team of volunteers who are equipped, encouraged, and empowered to invest in students
• A culture where students actively serve and engage in the broader life of the church
• Meaningful relationships with students through presence in their everyday lives—school events, activities, and community moments

This role also offers opportunities to contribute to the broader church through occasional preaching, participation in church‑wide initiatives, and serving alongside a unified staff team.

WHO THRIVES HERE

Shepherd at Heart – You genuinely love students and walk alongside them through the most formative years of their lives.

Relational Leader – You understand that effective youth ministry happens beyond the church building and enjoy showing up at games, performances, school events, and community activities where students are already living.

Builder of Teams – You recruit, train, and empower volunteers to be part of the mission.

Biblical Communicator – You can teach Scripture clearly and faithfully in a way that connects with students.

Team Player – You enjoy working alongside other staff members and supporting church‑wide initiatives.

Growing Disciple – Your leadership flows from a vibrant and growing relationship with Jesus Christ, marked by spiritual maturity, integrity, and humility.

WHAT YOU’LL LEAD

The Youth Pastor will oversee the primary rhythms and environments of the student ministry, including:

• Weekly student worship and Bible study gatherings (Wednesday nights)
• Student events throughout the year (camps, retreats, trips, and outreach opportunities)
• Volunteer recruitment, development, and leadership
• Ongoing communication with students and parents through social media, church communications, and regular updates
• Curriculum development or selection to help students grow in biblical understanding and spiritual maturity
• Intentional relationship building with students throughout the week

Additional responsibilities include occasional preaching, assisting with weekend service preparation as needed, and supporting church events and ministries.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Experience leading or serving in student ministry within a church context
• A strong and growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ
• Alignment with the doctrine and statement of faith of Catalyst Church
• The ability to lead, organize, and communicate effectively
• A heart for discipleship and developing young leaders
• Some formal Bible training preferred

This is a full‑time pastoral role for a leader who is excited to invest in students, serve the local church, and become part of a church family that works hard, has fun, and is passionate about seeing lives transformed by Jesus.