Youth Ministry Director — Immanuel Lutheran Church

Mission: To thank, praise, honor and serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as we gather and worship, grow in the Word, and serve God by serving people.

History: Immanuel has been serving God and worshiping as a congregation since 1974.

Responsibilities:

1. Implement youth programming using Safe Sanctuary principals and guidelines.
2. Lead the youth in stimulating programs as well as assisting with the children’s ministry.
3. Coordinate, promote, implement, and further develop a quality Youth Ministry Program to include Sunday School, after-school and weeknight activities including youth in the following areas: Youth Sunday School; bi-monthly activities; fundraising and service projects; retreats; summer trips/Camp Chrysalis/ELCA Youth Gathering; and seasonal/special events.
4. Collaborate with the Parish Ed Coordinator and Youth Council Leaders to engage, train, and supervise teachers, leaders, and other volunteers necessary to meet the education program requirements of the church and assist in Sunday School.
5. Develop children and youth in their Christian spiritual and social development by instructing and training children and youth to understand and implement the Bible into their lives.
6. Personally communicate Youth Ministry program news frequently with the Pastor and the congregation.
7. Develop a yearly Youth Ministry strategic plan that supports the mission and vision of ILC.
8. Participate in the preparation and development of the budget for the Youth Ministry Program.
9. Communicate and publish youth activities through newsletters, bulletins, church announcements, the church calendar, and on social media (BAND app).
10. Actively invite children, youth and young families to church supported activities and programs in the community.
11. Responsible for assuring that youth are considered and included within the life of the Church.
12. Participate with other Christian ministry professionals in the community as opportunities arise that fit within the church’s purpose and ministry vision, this can include participation in the ELCA Youth Ministry Network’s Extravaganza Conference.
13. Encourage and coordinate outreach opportunities and summer programs for youth as appropriate.

Qualifications:

The Youth Ministry Director plays a major role in the faith development of all ages within the church, both as a leader and as an example. ILC seeks a person who has a solid understanding of the foundations of Christian faith, and who has a strong desire to nurture children and youth in the Christian faith. The person will be familiar with or willing to learn the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) doctrine/discipline. We seek a person who generates new ideas and programs, who also values the team concept of ministry, and accepts suggestions from the other staff and the Youth Council leaders.

 A degree or background in a relevant field of study

 Spiritual maturity and high moral and ethical conduct

 A sense of call and a passion for working with children and youth and team members – able to inspire

 Friendly, enthusiastic, and flexible team approach while working with children, youth, parents, staff members

 Good organizational, teaching, administration and computer/technology skills

 An understanding of child and adolescent development and skill level

 Ability to relate to children and youth and be able to teach them about Christ

 Strong written and verbal communication skills

 Vital relationship with Jesus Christ

 Ability to engage, invite, train, organize and motivate volunteers for children’s and youth ministries

 Desire to encourage multi-generational fellowship

 Spiritual gifts including but not limited to leadership, administration, and teaching.

 Teachable, servant’s heart, team builder and team player

 Shares the vision, philosophy of ministry, and commitments of ILC

 Be in relationship with youth, children, and their families. Seek out and meet with youth and children, sharing their joys and concerns, and challenging their spiritual growth. Minister to their needs and make appropriate care referrals when necessary

Working conditions:

The Youth Ministry Director position requires flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. The position currently is part time at 25 hours per week, with an opportunity to grow the position to three-quarters or full-time employment, depending on the growth of the youth ministry program. The actual numbers of hours required during any given week may vary and are those needed to fulfill the responsibilities of the position. It is recognized that the schedule may vary at different times of the year. The expectation is that Youth Director will work on Sundays as well as other specific times as agreed upon with Senior Pastor and Church Council.

It is expected that the chosen candidate will:

 Keep the church office and the Pastor informed as to how he/she may be contacted

 Maintain office hours to be established with the approval of the Senior Pastor

 Notify the Senior Pastor prior to any unforeseen absence from regularly scheduled hours, events or duties, and provide a suitable substitute in case of anticipated absence

 Seek approval for continuing education by Church Council and Senior Pastor

 Participate in opportunities for periodic review and goal setting

 Contact Senior Pastor with any concerns that should arise (in weekly, one-on-one meetings)