POSITION OVERVIEW:

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Student Pastor to oversee the spiritual development and growth of junior high and high school students within our suburban community in Illinois. This role will involve leading a Sunday night program from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, which includes large-group teaching and small-group discussions. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, be experienced in shepherding and mentoring students (and their parents/guardians), and be capable of recruiting,  developing, and discipling a team of leaders to assist in the ministry.


JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Overall Ministerial Responsibilities:

• Be available to officiate weddings and funerals as needed.
• Be available to be involved in other pastoral responsibilities as needed (hosting, preaching, premarital counseling, etc.).

Events:

• Coordinate, oversee, and lead events on the EDW Campus. This could include Impact Weekend (D-Now), Camps, Senior Night, float trips, etc.
• Recruit leaders for the necessary ministry areas to accomplish these events.
• Engage parents and work alongside them to equip them to disciple their students leading up to and following the events.
• Collaborate with other ministry areas as needed to ensure proper communication of the events and the usage of the building, equipment, etc.

Lead Sunday Night Program:

• Coordinate and oversee the Sunday night program for junior high and high school students.
• Conduct engaging large group sessions by delivering relevant, biblically based messages that resonate with the target age group.
• Foster an environment of worship, prayer, and interactive learning during the large group sessions where an environment of transcendent, God moments will be pursued, focused on and fostered.
• Plan and execute activities, events, and games that foster fellowship and community building.
• Facilitate small group discussions questions for leaders after the large group session, encouraging meaningful conversations and discipleship.
• Recruit, train, and support small group leaders who will assist in leading and mentoring students within their respective groups.
• Provide resources, curriculum, and guidance to small group leaders to ensure effective discipleship and spiritual growth.

Shepherding and Mentoring:

• Develop meaningful relationships with students, serving as a mentor, role model, and spiritual guide.
• Provide pastoral care, counseling, and support to students (and their parents/guardians), addressing their individual needs and challenges.
• Encourage students in their personal faith journeys, helping them navigate through life's difficulties and questions.

Leadership Recruitment and Development:

• Identify potential leaders within the student ministry and actively recruit, equip, and develop them for leadership roles.
• Provide ongoing training, mentorship, and support to leaders, enabling them to effectively serve and minister to students.
• Empower leaders to take ownership of their roles and encourage them to grow spiritually and professionally.

Strategy Development:

• Develop a comprehensive strategy with the Executive Staff Uplink and in alignment with the Transcendent Model of ministry to reach and engage junior high and high school students within our suburban community in Illinois.
• Stay updated on current trends, issues, and cultural influences that impact teenagers, adjusting the ministry approach accordingly.
• Collaborate with other church staff, parents, and volunteers to create a cohesive and integrated approach to student ministry.
• Plan and execute activities, events, and games that foster fellowship and community building.

Requirements:

• Strong commitment to Jesus Christ and a personal life reflecting Christian values and principles.
• Bachelor's degree in ministry, theology, or a related field (preferred but not mandatory).
• Prior experience in student ministry or related roles, demonstrating a passion for working with junior high and high school students.
• Excellent communication skills, both in large group teaching and one-on-one interactions.
• Ability to relate to and connect with students, understanding their unique needs and challenges.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to recruit, train, and develop a team of leaders.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with suburban youth culture in Illinois (not required but would be a plus).
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends, as required by the ministry schedule.

Note: This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and requirements of the role. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change or modification as needed.