This 20-hour-per-week position is responsible for planning, implementing, and leading youth ministry activities for grades 6-12. The focus of the position is helping youth know that they are unconditionally loved by God, while enabling them to foster strong relationships with other youth, caring adults, and their church family. The Director reports to the Senior Pastor.
Responsibilities
Encourage faith formation and fellowship among the youth of St. Peter's through the following:
- Youth Group: Lead the implementation, planning, and organization of Youth Group Meetings for grades 6-12.
- Special Events: Lead the planning and organization of special events, such as Christmas Dinner Theater, Youth Sunday, Lock-ins, and retreats (annual winter and beach trips).
- Retreats and Trips: Attend Synod and ELCA retreats and trips, including ALIVE, Winterfest, and the ELCA Youth Gathering and Confirmation Camp(s).
- Youth Service Projects: Identify, plan and organize service projects that support ministries at St. Peter’s, the local community and beyond.
- Sunday School: Recruit, train and oversee leaders for 6th - 12th grade Sunday School classes, with particular emphasis on grades 6-8.
- Confirmation Ministry: Provide support and assistance to the Senior Pastor in coordinating confirmation classes, including their service projects and student worship participation.
General Expectations
- Be Active as a baptized, committed Christian who is active in congregational life.
- Be Connected by building a sense of fellowship and community with and among the youth and families, showing an ability to understand youth culture and effectively communicate with youth and their families.
- Be Collaborative as you plan activities and events with the Youth and Family Committee, youth council of students, and other volunteers to ensure a strong program.
- Be an Advocate and Cheerleader for the participation of youth in all aspects of congregational life, particularly helping them develop their leadership abilities.
- Be Empowering by recruiting, preparing, thanking, and supporting volunteers in your area of ministry.
- Be Approachable by responding appropriately to youth seeking help and guidance
- Be a Communicator who possesses strong interpersonal and professional communication skills, working with the church staff to keep the calendar and other website and social media sites up to date.
- Be Committed to teaching and ministering in accordance with the Lutheran Confessions and the teaching and practices of the ELCA.
- Be a Team Player by participating in church staff meetings and supporting other staff priorities.
- Be a Learner by attending youth ministry training conferences and development opportunities.
- Be Accountable by working with the Y&F Committee to plan and manage the annual budget, ministry goals, and reporting to Council and the congregation.
Qualifications
- A degree or certification in a related field.
- Background checks as required by the State of Pennsylvania, including child abuse clearances, criminal background checks, and, if necessary, an FBI background check.
- Understanding of core Lutheran values and theology.
- Experience working with middle and high school-aged youth, preferably in a faith-based program or setting.
Work Location: In person
