POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Associate Pastor of Families & Youth

STATUS:

Full-time, salaried

GENERAL PURPOSE OF POSITION:

To work in concert with the Senior Pastor and Elders in family and youth ministry and to help families and children grow in their commitment and walk with Christ.

SUPERVISION:

Reports to the Senior Pastor. The Senior Pastor will provide an annual evaluation of the Associate Pastor’s performance and to be reviewed and approved by the lay Elders. The Associate Pastor will operate with considerable independence within areas of responsibility described below and local church policy and constitution as determined by Elders with authority over the ministry areas involved.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP AND MINISTRY SUPERVISION:

• The Associate Pastor reports to the Pastor for spiritual and ministry guidance.
• Following the strategic guidance of the Senior Pastor; will work with ministry leaders to ensure they receive appropriate development and training, will provide necessary support to leaders so that they can foster and nurture their volunteers, and will connect leaders throughout the church.
• Following the guidance of the Elders, will manage the ministry and direct the volunteers dedicated to serving the various ministries for which the Associate Pastor carries primary responsibility.
• At the direction of the Pastor, will provide spiritual leadership and subject matter expertise to other staff members.
• Will attend Elder meetings on request.

QUALIFICATIONS AND APTITUDE:

• Must embrace Christian discipline and agree to the Statement of Faith that is included in the
  Constitution and By-Laws of Grace Fellowship at South Park. (Available upon request)
• A clear testimony of faith in Jesus Christ and a vital, growing personal relationship with Him.
  Sense a calling to serve in this kind of ministry role and ability to clearly articulate that calling to others.
• BA Degree from an approved and accredited College, Seminary, or University in Bible Education,
  Youth and Family ministries or related fields.
• An ordained minister or seeking ordination.
• Married male.
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, conflict management skills, and computer skills.
• Must possess a proven ability to work effectively with congregation, diverse individuals, and teams of volunteers.
• In the absence of the Sr. Pastor or when given an occasional opportunity, the associate pastor should be able to preach.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Build the necessary teams to carry out the Life Groups of the church with primary focus on Children, Youth and Young Families.
• During orientation and learning period the Associate Pastor should consult with the Senior Pastor and the Elders in evaluating potential leaders before implementing changes.
• Recruit and train lay leaders for Life Group ministry. This may also include recruiting and training workers.
• Provide ongoing evaluation of Life Group ministry and leaders and provide regular updates to the Elders.
• Recommend changes where needed and get approval from Elders before making major changes.
• Responsible for all aspects of children’s ministry including Life Groups, Children’s Church, Special Events (i.e. Bible School, Christmas Program, etc.), and Outreach Events.
• To the greatest extent possible, the Associate Pastor is to empower Leaders and workers to implement and carry out their responsibilities with a minimum of supervision.
• Evaluate and recommend curriculum for the Children’s ministry and where possible or time permits, work with Adult Life Groups in selecting curriculum if requested.
• Be open to change and the shifting of responsibilities as growth and ministry develop.
• Build relationships with families.
• Assist the Senior Pastor and Elders as directed.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

• Report directly to the senior pastor.
• Accountable to the Board of Elders

BENEFITS AND WORK SCHEDULE:

• The Associate Pastor is expected to work at least 40 hours per week including Sunday during scheduled Worship Services and Life Group meeting times.
• Upon mutual agreement with the Senior Pastor the Associate Pastor should develop a regular schedule of time off.
• The Associate Pastor is expected to work from the church during normal church business hours.
• Normal hours may be changed subject to approval by the Elders. Exceptions to normal hours can be made when performing duties related to the associate pastor’s responsibilities. Examples are visiting or meeting church members/leaders on or off-site, performing evening duties on or off-site, and special events.
• The Associate Pastor is responsible for advising either the Senior Pastor or Church Secretary when he will be out of the office if scheduled to be in the office.
• Benefits include health insurance, holidays, and vacation or benefits established at the time of his calling.
• The Associate Pastor has the right to an open door policy with the Elders to voice any concerns or the right of appeal if situations arise which require arbitration with the Senior Pastor or other church leaders.