JOB DESCRIPTION:
MAYFLOWER CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH ASSOCIATE PASTOR
Mayflower Congregational Church, in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks an Associate Pastor with a particular focus on youth ministry and young adult ministry in the broader continuum of Christian education. This individual must be a relational shepherd, coach, and pastoral leader eager to champion the Christian faith across varying ages and demographics in our church community.

The Associate Pastor will grow and maintain the church’s junior and high school youth ministry, leading students and supporting the faith formation journey in the church’s younger members. He/she will also design and develop a young adult ministry to support and connect this demographic to the wider congregation. The day-to-day work of the Associate Pastor will include programmatic design, instruction, leadership of varying groups and committees, coaching, writing and delivering sermons, cultivating relationships within and outside the church community, administering volunteer leaders, pastoral care, and the encouragement of faith and dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ and the global church.

THE ASSOCIATE PASTOR WILL:

Develop and maintain a robust youth ministry, serving students from the various schools in the area.
Build personal relationships with youth ministry students focused on mentoring, discipleship, and spiritual growth.
Build and manage a team of youth ministry volunteers.
In conjunction with the Senior Pastor, build, oversee, and teach in Christian education programs at Mayflower, including confirmation classes, Sunday school classes for children and youth, and adult Christian education classes.
In conjunction with the Senior Pastor, build, oversee, and lead young adult small groups.
Build and manage a team of Christian education volunteer teachers and assistants.
Work collaboratively with the Senior Pastor, church staff, and council to plan and implement the strategic vision of the church.
Coordinating with the Senior Pastor, engage in pastoral care, including visitations with a specific focus on youth and young adults.
Preach Sunday services at least quarterly.
Assist the Senior Pastor and Director of Music in planning and leading worship services.
Oversee and work collaboratively with the Director of Ministries to implement the vision and values of Mayflower, especially in youth and educational ministries.
Occasionally provide oversight and effectively administer weddings, funerals, and special services, in conjunction with the Senior Pastor.

WHAT YOU BRING:

Education & Experience

A seminary degree is required (MDiv or similar; other advanced education is desired but not required (Ph.D, D.Min, MA, etc.).
Candidates should be ordained or ordainable within a reasonable time frame.
Preference will be given to candidates with a minimum of five (5-7) years of commensurate experience.
Other relevant, professional experience desired.

Personal Characteristics

Relational; a person of exceptional character.
Personable and approachable.
Energetically engages others on an individual basis as well as in group settings.
Understands cross-generational leadership and relates well to all age groups.
Possesses a good sense of humor and doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
Has a compassionate and servant-hearted attitude.
Is accepting, hospitable, and welcoming of all people.
Highly values diversity.
Understands team building and can lead and equip others.
Has a good work ethic and is passionate about God and serving others.
Has a deep understanding of the Word of God and has the ability to communicate its truths to others.
A good communicator and listener.
Open to new ideas.
Has the ability to communicate faith and beliefs through inspirational speaking skills.
Promotes democratic leadership in the church.

COMPENSATION

Benefits include a competitive salary and housing allowance, retirement contributions after 1-year of service, health, dental, and vision insurance upon hire, vacation and sick time, and a set allocation for moving expenses.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

The final candidate must pass a rigorous background check, fingerprinting, and reference checks, and must be amenable to participation in an annual Youth Protection Program training in keeping with current standards around youth safety.

Additionally, this individual will embrace the mission and vision of Mayflower Congregational Church, and he/ she will seek to support its various ministries and congregants of all different ages and walks of life.

 

Website

mayflowerchurch.org