Next Gen Pastor
Grand Avenue Christian Church (GACC) is excited to invite applicants for the position of Next Gen Pastor. The successful candidate will join our staff team (under the oversight of our elders) to lead and shepherd the youth in our congregation. We are committed to following the Great Commission by glorifying God and making disciples. We encourage those with a love for God and a heart for shepherding the next generation to apply.
GACC, originally founded in 1959 as Western Heights Christian Church, moved to a new location in 2005 and became Grand Avenue Christian Church. For over sixty-four years, GACC has been ministering to Carbondale and the surrounding area as an Independent Christian Church. As a congregation, we are in prayer, confident that God is preparing a minister to lead our youth into the next chapter of our journey.
Our congregation is a diverse group from various walks of life and spiritual maturity, bound by faith with the desire to grow spiritually and share the love of God with those who may not know Him. GACC currently holds two worship services on Sunday mornings with an average total attendance of 190, each featuring contemporary praise and worship, communion, offering, sermon, and a time of invitation. Adult Sunday school is available during each service, with nursery and Children’s Church provided during the second service. Junior High and High School groups meet on Sunday evenings, while adults enjoy several fellowship and spiritual growth opportunities throughout the week. During the fall and spring, our church runs a discipleship program on Sunday nights (called “Quest”) for kids from 4th grade all the way through high school.
GACC is located in Carbondale, Illinois, a dynamic and welcoming community offering a blend of academic energy, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Home to Southern Illinois University, the city boasts diverse academic programs and a youthful energy. The community is celebrated through festivals and events. The nearby Shawnee National Forest provides outdoor enthusiasts with stunning landscapes. Carbondale's active artistic community, affordable cost of living, and strong sense of community makes it an appealing destination for a high quality of life, with excellent educational opportunities, proximity to larger cities like St. Louis, and a supportive atmosphere for families.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
· Build discipling relationships with junior high and high school youth. Shepherd and care for these youth and the volunteers.
· Develop a ministry strategy for helping our youth grow in love for Jesus and obedience to the great commission.
· Recruit and train leaders and volunteers for youth discipleship events and special events.
· Prepare and manage budget for youth ministry (6th – high school) and children’s ministry.
· Manage the research, distribution and allocation of the curriculum and supplies related to youth and children’s ministry.
· Encourage and support volunteers planning and fellowship.
· Plan and support youth special events including marketing efforts – website, social media, print materials, etc.
· Participate in church staff meetings
· Participate in, serve and support various church events and staff needs as needed
· Create and execute a yearly ministry plan which incorporates feedback from elders and church staff.
· Oversee, recruit, schedule and manage volunteers and curriculum for Sunday morning children’s ministry.
· Develop and oversee volunteers and program for Sunday night “Quest” and “Bridge” group.
QUALIFICATIONS:
· A mature Christian
· High energy, entrepreneurial, and charismatic with organizational skills
· Desire to invest in and develop youth as a way to serve God and advance His kingdom
· Strong leadership, communication and relational skills
· Ability to work with young adults, volunteers, and their families
· Ability to make changes, corrections and solve problems quickly under pressure
· Clearance of criminal background check
· Abide by all personnel policies of Grand Avenue Christian Church
· Self-starter and high degree of discipline and strategic focus as well as follow up
TO APPLY: Applicants should submit the following materials:
· A resume
· A cover letter highlighting qualifications and fit for this position
· Four references that can speak to character, gifting and any recent church ministry or other relevant experience.
Submit all materials to [email protected]. For any questions about the position or the application process, please contact [email protected]. Prayerful review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Pay: From $48,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person
