St. John’s Lutheran Church is seeking a dynamic leader for our children and youth ministry here in Shiremanstown, PA. This person will oversee a comprehensive faith formation ministry that includes children from pre-k through high school. This person will work with The Children’s Garden of St. John’s, our preschool, to support teachers to implement a Christian education more holistically into their curriculum.

While we have a vision of what this full-time position will entail, we seek an applicant with knowledge of current best practices and the experience and energy to help grow this ministry. This is a new position for our congregation. Previously we had a part-time youth director that focused only on our high schoolers. We seek a candidate who desires to work with all our children and youth to form them as disciples and leaders in our world as well as help bridge the preschool children and families to the church. We desire an applicant who is creative, curious, fun-loving, Christ-centered, and great with children and youth!

Responsibilities:

● Regularly attend and participate in Worship services, weekday activities, and church events as a role model to youth, and actively fostering children and youth participation in worship.

● Specific events include but are not limited to Sunday Education, Wednesday evening activities, etc

● Plan amazing faith-building events, activities, and trips to engage children and youth

● Manage communication with youth, families, and the congregation

● Recruit, train, and support adult volunteers, particularly for Sunday school, youth group, Vacation Bible School, etc.

● Foster an atmosphere of mutual respect for the dignity, privacy, and rights of each person

● Develop a plan to include as many youth as possible. Value all youth as part of the group and the congregation

● Facilitate connections with youth and organizations outside our congregation, including our neighborhood, our synod, and the ELCA churchwide organization ○ Synodical & churchwide events include organizing and chaperoning: Alive, Winterfest, ELCA Youth Gathering, Confirmation Camp, etc.

● Evaluate and implement curriculums for Sunday School and The Children’s Garden in collaboration with Pastor(s) and Staff

● Oversee boundary policies and ensure all those who work with children and youth are appropriately trained and background checked

● Determine spending priorities and maintain appropriate financial records in partnership with the Financial Manager, Congregational Council and Pastor(s)

● Attend staff meetings regularly and provide monthly reports to the Congregational Council

Minimum Qualifications:

● Bachelor’s degree and training/experience in children and youth ministry

● Pass required background checks: PA State Police, Childline, FBI, NSOR

● Possess a valid driver’s license

● Proficiency with social media platforms, Microsoft office suite, Zoom

● A love of children and youth, and a passion for forming them to be disciples

● Familiarity with Lutheran theology and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Recommended Qualifications:

● Creative skills: an ability to create or curate inspiring messages that drive high levels of engagement for our children and youth

● Analytical skills: an ability to analyze trends, stay current, and determine effective approaches to ministry in both the digital and physical spaces.

● Interpersonal skills: an ability to create meaningful trusting relationships with children, youth and families

● Organizational skills: ability to manage time efficiently and work in a team environment with the church Pastor(s) and staff.

● Motivating others: creates a climate in which people want to do their best; can motivate volunteers and members; empowers others; forms our youth into leaders; invites shared input and decision making Benefits

● Salary DOE based on experience and education

● Competitive benefits package

● Schedule flexibility outside of required activities

● Funds and time for continuing education provided annually

● Paid membership to the ELCA Youth Ministry Network

● All candidates need to submit a resume and a cover letter