The mission of Avenue Christian Church is that “together we will help people find New Life in Jesus Christ.” We have a vision to help people Connect to Jesus, Become like Jesus and Proclaim Jesus over their lives…in the heart of the western suburbs of Chicago.
Purpose for the Student Ministry Pastor Position
The Avenue Student Pastor will be responsible for leading the Student Ministry (6th‑12th grade). This person will be a contributing member of the Avenue Staff Team as well. They will be responsible for creating an effective discipleship community among students. Through partnered vision, execution of strategy and development of volunteer leadership teams, the Student Pastor will lead students to be life‑long followers of Jesus.
Student Ministry Overview
Avenue Student Ministry has weekly programming which includes a nighttime youth group (either Sundays or Wednesdays) and Sunday morning bible study for middle school (6th‑8th grade). There are also various events and trips for students, as well as helping students serve in the life of the church. The most important aspect of being the Student Pastor is personally investing in the lives of students and their families, going to where they are at; “doing life with them.”
Responsibilities:
Lead the student ministry in a creative, culturally relevant ministry of discipleship, Biblical leadership, and missions‑minded outreach that values personal Biblical study, spiritual maturity and emotional health.
Equipping and developing a team of adult leaders through recruitment, training and discipleship to be positive influencers in the lives of our students.
Partnering with parents to help them be the primary faith‑influencers in their students’ lives.
In cooperation with the Children’s Pastor and Senior Pastor, establish a spiritual growth plan for teaching and student discipleship in connection to a strategic teaching scope and sequence.
Coordinate and engage students in serving, both inside and outside of the church.
Maintain safety‑conscious guidelines for all student ministry activities.
Implement a digital communication and social media strategy that consistently engages and informs families with Avenue’s student ministry.
Be a contributor to Avenue’s staff team which entails weekly staff meeting participation, helping staff for “All‑hands‑on‑deck” events (Christmas, Easter, Vacation Bible School, Ministry Year Kick‑Off).
Meet weekly with supervisor (Senior Pastor) for personal, spiritual and ministry check‑ins to assess progress towards their goals and spiritual/emotional health.
Occasional opportunities to teach and lead in Avenue Kids, Preaching and other ministries.
General Qualifications
Give evidence of a life that continues to be changed by the grace of Jesus Christ.
Exude a passion for all people, particularly students, to experience new life in Christ.
Possess strong relational skills in making sure students are connected and involved.
Be a leader with leaders by demonstrating the ability to work alongside volunteers.
Possess excellent public and interpersonal communication skills.
Be capable of leading a ministry administratively.
General Expectations
Lives an authentic and active life on mission for Christ.
Practices spiritual rhythms of being with Jesus first and foremost.
Involved in personal discipleship, specifically within a Life Group.
Stays current with ministry trends.
Practices personal financial stewardship and generosity.
Regular participant in worship gatherings and other ministries.
Maintains regular, but flexible working hours, as determined by needs of ministry.
Functions within the mission and vision of Avenue Christian Church.
Accountability
It is expected that all staff members function within the expressed mission, vision and values of Avenue Christian Church. All staff members at Avenue are accountable to God and must answer to Him for their personal conduct and performance. The Student Pastor is also accountable to the Senior Pastor regarding regular duties and responsibilities, and to the Elders on an overall basis. The Senior Pastor will conduct the Student Pastor’s periodic job performance evaluation.
Interested Candidates can submit their resume (with a picture) to Kyle Isabelli (Senior Pastor): kisabelli@avenuechristian.com
