About Forest Park Church

Forest Park Church exists to help people lead lives where Jesus comes first. With two thriving campuses — in Carthage and Joplin, Missouri — we are a multi-campus church committed to reaching our communities with the Gospel.

Our mission is to guide people to:

Know Jesus personally Grow in their faith Show His love through their actions Go into the world to make disciples We are seeking an energetic Kids Director to lead our Carthage Campus kids ministry executing the mission and vision seeing children, their families, and volunteers placing

Jesus First.

Purpose of the Role

To lead a thriving Kids Ministry that reflects our "Jesus First" culture. The Kids Director will disciple children, equip volunteers, foster meaningful relationships with families, and create dynamic, Gospel-centered programming that engages children from birth through 6th grade.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

Create a Jesus First culture in Kids Ministry through servant leadership. Provide spiritual guidance and care to volunteers, children, and families. Regularly extend spiritual growth opportunities (salvation, baptism, spiritual disciplines). Equip Train and develop volunteers and teachers in sound doctrine and creative lesson delivery. Champion the spiritual development of children through discipleship and milestone celebrations (child dedication, baptism, etc.). Introduce and lead preteens to local mission opportunities. Care Build meaningful relationships with children and their families. Provide pastoral care and ongoing encouragement to ministry team members. Equip parents to lead their children spiritually at home.

Recruit and develop a passionate, robust volunteer team. Be the primary advocate for Kids Ministry, inspiring the entire church body to invest in children's lives. Outreach

Cultivate a culture where kids regularly invite their friends. Plan and lead community outreach events (VBS, Trunk or Treat, Family Movie Night). Assist in after-school Bible clubs and school partnerships to engage with local children.

Administrative

Manage the Kids Ministry budget effectively. Select and implement curriculum that is fun, engaging, and theologically sound. Maintain volunteer schedules, attendance records, and track milestones (dedications, baptisms).

Candidate Characteristics

Christ-Centered Relational Strategic Energetic Qualifications

1–3 years of experience in Kids or Family Ministry Seminary degree or equivalent theological training Strong communication, leadership, and relational skills A heart for discipling children and equipping parents Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary Health insurance Retirement plan Paid time off (PTO) Opportunities for missions trips and professional development

Learn More by visiting www.forestpark.church

About the Community

–

Carthage, Missouri

Nestled in the heart of southwest Missouri, Carthage is a vibrant, historic town known for its small-town charm, deep community roots, and strong values. With a population of just over 14,000, Carthage offers the warmth of a close-knit community alongside the resources and opportunities of the greater Joplin metro area, just 20 minutes away. The city is rich in history and culture, from the iconic Carthage Square and Civil War sites to the stunning Jasper County Courthouse. Families enjoy excellent schools, youth sports, and an active arts scene. Seasonal festivals, parades, and a deep spirit of hospitality make Carthage a wonderful place to build relationships and raise a family. For kids ministry, Carthage offers incredible opportunity. Faith continues to play a central role in community life, and reaching children here can have a lasting generational impact. Whether serving in local schools, hosting outreach events, or building long-term relationships with families, the next Kids Director will find fertile ground for Gospel growth and a community eager for connection and hope.