PASTORAL ASSOCIATE/ASSISTANT JOB DESCRIPTION

This position is designed for a man who is interested in pursuing a career in vocational ministry and would like to get some hands-on experience serving in the local church, while also receiving guidance and training. This may include tuition assistance for seminary and other training opportunities. The Pastoral Assistant serves as the primary support to the senior pastor in carrying out the day-to-day shepherding of the congregation. He will take the lead in certain ministry areas and have the opportunity to work in a wide range of ministry functions.

Job Responsibilities and DutiesBelow are some of the core functions for this position, with a rough idea of how much of the role they will take up.

1. Lead and Supervise ministry to children, youth, and families. (≈50%)

This is the primary focus of this role and includes:

a. Provide hands-on leadership to youth ministry

b. Provide oversight and leadership for the children’s ministry in coordination with the children’s director.

c. Give unique attention to education and discipleship opportunities for parents

2. Support the Senior Pastor in the overall vision and leadership of the church’s worship and education. (≈15%)

Including but not limited to:

a. Provide feedback and improvement ideas for Sunday mornings.

b. Communicate with and handle any outside speakers, including securing manuscripts, coordinating travel arrangements, requesting honorarium payments, etc.

c. Preach several Sundays per year (based on ability, can be developed in the role)

d. Maintain clear channels of communication with the Pastor, including a weekly meeting

e. Assist the Senior Pastor as requested in organizing discipleship and educational ministry in the church.

3. Share in pastoral care and shepherding, with a particular focus on birth through young marrieds. (≈10%)

a. Visit members when appropriate.

b. Assist with funerals and weddings

c. Provide confidential pastoral counseling when needed.

4. Personal, Theological, and Ministry Growth and Training (≈10%)

May include guided study with the Senior Pastor, formal theological education, and other training opportunities as appropriate.

5. Other Duties As Assigned (≈15%)

In a smaller church, there are inevitably many areas which require varying levels of pastoral involvement and leadership. In addition to the core functions outlined above, there are a number of other ministries in which the Pastoral Assistant may lead and provide pastoral oversight based on the gifting and abilities of the individual hired. These will be discussed and decided collaboratively together with the man hired. Examples of potential areas include: assisting with music, overseeing small groups, helping with technology or A/V, leading outreach and missions, etc.

Work schedule

This position requires a flexible work schedule including evenings and weekends, but that means there can be comp time during the week. This is a full-time position. There is an expectation of keeping regular office hours at the church Tuesday through Thursday, with greater flexibility on other days. The elders are committed to encouraging healthy rhythms and balance for the Pastoral Assistant and his family.

Job Skills and Requirements

This position requires a man to:

- Exhibit evidence of Christian character that meets the qualifications of an elder as stated in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, and 1 Peter 5:1-4

- Have a minimum of 2 years of full time or part time experience as a staff member or high-capacity volunteer in a ministry leadership capacity.

- Possess a Bachelor’s degree (or Bible/theology education in progress)

- Be able to use common computer programs and learn new programs.

- Possess the personality, temperament, and interpersonal skills to relate and serve effectively within a multi-generational congregation setting.

- Love the local church and its mission of sharing the gospel and making disciples of Christ

- Give evidence of a spiritually balanced life (prayer, Bible study, rest, worship, financial stewardship).

- Must be a U.S. resident