Pilgrim Church Director of Youth and Christian Education Job Description
Mission Statement
A welcoming home to all spiritual seekers
Making a difference in our world,
By fusing our Christian faith with everyday life and
Serving God by serving others.
Pilgrim Congregational Church UCC Lexington is a small/mid-sized congregation centered on loving God and loving others. We are seeking a dynamic Director of Youth and Christian Education who is enthusiastic about working with children, youth and families and growing our already thriving Church Schooland youth programs. We envision this position as 25-30 hours per week on average with room to grow. Pilgrim Church values new ideas, diversity, and passion. The Director of Youth and Christian Education is responsible for the development and promotion of the educational program of the church, and reports to the Pastor. We are seeking someone interested in filling this as a 1 year interim position while we evaluate and update the position responsibilities and Christian Education curriculum for our youth and Church School programs. We will offer the opportunity for the interim Director to apply for the long term position once we are prepared to advertise it.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Working with the appropriate church leaders and the Educational Ministries Committee to set goals, determine priorities, establish programs, and coordinate a calendar of events.
- Overseeing that all areas of Children’s Ministry are implemented, including: curriculum, prayer, programs, and music. Responsible for ensuring coverage and attendance in classrooms for all children in Church School on Sunday mornings.
- Delivering the Children’s Message 2-3 times a month during the worship service.
- Directing the church’s annual multi-generational Christmas Pageant.
- Overseeing that all areas of the Youth program are implemented, including: working directly with the middle-school youth on Sunday mornings, initiating a program for our high school youth, implementing and coordinating social and mission opportunities for the youth, and fostering spiritual growth.
- Taking primary responsibility for the Confirmation curriculum and co-leading the sessions with the Pastor. Our Confirmation program is currently offered every other year so this upcoming year (2016-2017) will not include leading Confirmation classes but will include planning for the next year’s program.
- Every other year, planning and co-leading with the Pastor, a week-long youth mission trip.
- Providing leadership to the educational ministry of the church, including identifying gifts of lay leaders and promoting their involvement in Church School/Youth activities.
- On an ad hoc basis, leading or organizing adult education programs.
- Overseeing the professional childcare provider on Sunday mornings and supporting committees by helping to guide them in arranging childcare during adult programs.
- Meeting weekly with the Pastor, monthly staff meetings and attending meetings pertaining to the educational mission of the church.
- Keeping current of the latest research, methods, and materials as related to religious education and youth ministry.
- Complying with all established church policies and procedures as well as all applicable federal and state laws.
- Communicating with the Director of Pilgrim Nursery School and committees as needed.
- Writing/updating a weekly blog for the church community to enhance communication.
The position of Director of Christian Education:
- Requires a bachelors degree or UCC Christian Educator’s Certificate
- Requires the ability to listen effectively and to communicate clearly, both orally and in written form
- Requires the ability to speak, read, and write English
- Requires basic abilities to use computer software
- Requires passing a CORI background check
The person holding the position of Director of Christian Education will:
- Be committed to Biblical Christian principles and teachings
- Demonstrate strong speaking skills and the ability to speak confidently before groups of different ages
- Demonstrate quality leadership skills
- Demonstrate exceptional administrative skills
All interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Diane Blair ()