5th – 6th & 7th – 8th Grade Middle School Minister

Position Title: 5th – 6th & 7th – 8th Grade Middle School Minister

Reporting Relationships
Position Reports to: Executive Pastor

Position Purpose
Creating environments and opportunities for Middle School students and families that enthusiastically introduces them to Jesus, grows their faith, engages them in worship and sends them into mission individually & collectively.
These environments exist to inspire and equip students and families to be faithful disciples of Jesus while developing relationships with students, parents, families, and influential leaders in the church as we all grow in our faith together.
We expect the Middle School Student Ministry in every fashion to align with the mission and vision of Reynoldsburg UMC, which is to connect people to Jesus and make Jesus known.

Essential Functions and Basic Duties*

1. Organizational Planning and Direction
• Create and implement a discipleship pathway for students in grades 5th – 6th & 7th – 8th
• Design and align middle school ministries consistent with church mission and vision
• Coordinate with the Discipleship Staff to ensure thoughtful transitions through each age group while enhancing overall discipleship program objectives
• Be in partnership with parents to shepherd their children and grow their child’s relationship with Jesus while supporting parents in their role
• Cultivate positive relationships among children, staff, servants, congregation and the community-at-large
• Maintain a strategy for reaching and assimilating new students
• Participate in strategic planning for the ministry and church as a member of the Lead Team
• Create a safe and environment for all students and families

2. Administrative Responsibilities
• Oversees ordering and management of required supplies and equipmentPlan and publicize the annual 5th – 6th & 7th – 8th grade calendars
 Maintain and oversee all areas of parent/church/community communications regarding Middle School Ministry, to include: newsletters, parent meetings, emails, online promotion, print material and social media
• Design and implement an annual budget
• Creates timely and appropriate responses to all communications
• Meets all deadlines, as assigned

3. Staff Development
• Build, equip, and maintain a sustainable servant leader team of reliable, trusted adults and parents to plan and implement an effective ministry
 Collaborate with other church ministry leaders through frequent reflection and vision alignment
 Participate in continuing education opportunities to stay current on the latest trends in Middle School Students and Families Ministries
• Empower and encourage regular learning opportunities to strengthen staff and positively impact students, families, the church, and the community at large
* Not an exhaustive list of job responsibilities since key church programs and focus issues may change as a result of unforeseen conditions/circumstances

Performance Measurements
• Curriculum is effectively administered and reflects the mission and vision of RUMC
• Consistent, timely and appropriate communication and relationship with parents is observed
• Staff and servant leaders are continuously monitored/coached to help develop improved techniques and skills in their areas of leadership
• The purpose and mission of the ministry is frequently and effectively communicated to all external and internal audiences
• Budgets and applicable cost control measures are consistently achieved
• Abides by Reynoldsburg UMC Personnel manual and policies
• Demonstrates a knowledge of potential Middle School population and effectively maintains and shows growth of student ministry population
• Exhibits intentional collaboration with community partners (i.e. Hannah Ashton Middle School, Upward Sports, other local school districts)
• Actively engaged in personal faith growth as observed by lifestyle choices, practice of spiritual disciplines and openness to accountability

Required Qualifications
1. Must love God with all your heart, soul and mind with a passion for leading students and families to Jesus
2. Must love Middle School students and families
3. Education/Certification: Bachelor’s degree required in related field of study
4. Knowledge:
- Best practices in student ministry and adolescent development
- Biblical knowledge and understanding and appreciation of orthodox, Wesleyan, United Methodist theology and tradition
- Experience with and understanding of social media and technology sites that students, families and church utilizes
5. Experience Required: At least 3 years of extensive experience in the field of ministry
6. Professional Skills/Abilities:
• Ability to manage, empower and grow staff and servants
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Possess contemporary computer skillsets
• Ability to work independently as well as on a team
7. Certifications: Federal & State background check clearance; CPR & First Aid certification desired