Job Overview
This is a support-raised position, and the candidate will be expected to raise personal ministry support. United Community Church can assist by connecting the candidate with a missionary organization if needed.
United Community Church (UCC) is an English-speaking church located in the capital region of Finland (Helsinki and Espoo). We are a conservative evangelical, non-denominational church that cooperates closely with Baptist churches in Finland.
UCC is an international congregation made up of people from many nations and backgrounds. Our aim is to be a healthy local church shaped by the gospel and committed to the faithful preaching of Scripture, meaningful church membership, and the raising up of disciples of Jesus Christ. We also work closely with a Christian school and a local seminary and maintain active partnerships with several mission organizations.
We are seeking a Youth Pastor to provide spiritual leadership, pastoral care, and strategic oversight primarily for our youth ministries, both pre-teen, (grades 3-6) and teen (grades 7-12) groups. This role focuses on evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development, while equipping parents and volunteers to participate in the spiritual formation of the next generation.
The Youth Pastor will build on existing foundations, lead teams of volunteers, and help shape a gospel-centered, sustainable ministry culture integrated into the wider life of the church.
(This job can be done part-time, the other half can be used for seminary studies (provided by UCC) &/or taking on other responsibilities in the church.)
Job Description
Outline of Core Responsibilities:
Youth Ministry Leadership
- Lead and develop weekly youth ministries through planning, promotion, coordination, execution, and evaluation of evangelism and discipleship efforts.
- Coordinate and administer the weekly youth Sunday School program,
- Coordinate and administer weekly youth activities as well as special events such as summer camps or mid-term social events.
Curriculum, Camps & Events
- Develop and coordinate an overall gospel-centered curriculum for youth ministries.
- Plan and coordinate annual youth retreats and camps, including:
- Annual Summer Camp for teens and pre-teens.
- One additional retreat or weekend event in the autumn per group
Parents, Volunteers & Leadership Development
- Encourage growth and spiritual development among parents of youth through events, communication, and resources.
- Coordinate the recruitment, discipling, training, and motivation of adult volunteers serving in children's and youth ministries.
- Develop and disciple a core group of student leaders within the ministry.
- Train and mentor youth interns and ministry apprentices, in conjunction with ATS or other Bible colleges and training institutions.
Missions, Outreach & Church Integration
- Lead and encourage youth involvement in missions, both locally and beyond the local community.
- Strategically attend school-sponsored events to build relationships and connect with students.
- Participate actively in UCC Sunday services through teaching, leadership, or service as appropriate.
- Attend, participate in, and contribute to weekly staff meetings.
- Dedicate approximately 5–10 hours per week to other ministry areas and participation in the general life of the church.
We Are Seeking Someone Who:
- is a strong communicator to both children and youth and parents
- has a mature relationship with Jesus Christ
- will teach and challenge students to grow in their love and knowledge of God & Scripture
- will develop a model for spiritual formation in our youth through example and curriculum.
- will bring Biblical messages and lesson plans that help create a fun environment for children and youth to grow spiritually.
- will oversee and train volunteer teams in service to the church and local community.
- will equip and edify our youth kids and volunteers in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
- will develop a core group of student leaders within the ministry.
- will plan and coordinate special programs as needed
Experience & Knowledge Required / Preferred
- Mature Christian character, meeting biblical leadership standards (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1)
- good organizational and communication skills
- Proficiency with basic digital tools
- Ability to relate to students and parents on both personal and spiritual levels
- Creative approach to teaching and problem-solving
- Team player within UCC staff; team leader for youth and children's ministry volunteers
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- Commitment to the UCC Statement of Faith and core values
- Fluency in English; willingness to learn Finnish is a plus
- Bible college graduate or current student preferred though not required; there is an opportunity to attend seminary locally while serving
- Minimum two years' experience in children's and/or youth ministry preferred
Extra-Professional Development
- Encouraged to pursue ongoing professional development, networking, and collaboration with other churches and ministry leaders.