Youth & Music Pastor

Position Title: Student/Youth Minister
Location: The First Baptist Church of Desha, Desha, Arkansas
Reports To: Senior Pastor and the Student Ministries Committee
Job Type: Full-Time

Overview: The First Baptist Church of Desha is seeking a passionate and dedicated Student/Youth Minister to lead and engage with our students, from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. This role is crucial in nurturing the spiritual growth of young people and fostering a community centered on Christ. The ideal candidate will be committed to developing meaningful relationships with students and their families, guiding them in their faith journeys, and creatively engaging them in the life of the church.

Key Responsibilities:

• Spiritual Leadership:

  • Provide vision and direction for the student ministry in alignment with the church’s mission.

  • Teach biblically sound and age-appropriate lessons that resonate with students.

  • Plan and lead weekly services, Bible studies, and small groups designed to deepen students' understanding of the Christian faith.

• Program Development:

  • Collaborate with church staff, volunteers, and parents to support and enhance the student ministry.

  • Create and implement engaging programs and activities that promote spiritual growth, fellowship, and service among students.

  • Work with committee to help organize and lead special events such as retreats, mission trips, Vacation Bible School (VBS), and seasonal activities like Fall Festival and Easter Egg Hunts.

  • Utilize creativity to enhance worship experiences and engage students through music, whether by leading worship, organizing music teams, or incorporating music into programs.

• Pastoral Care:

  • Provide pastoral care and counseling to students and their families, addressing spiritual, emotional, and relational needs.

  • Foster strong, supportive relationships with students and be a missionary to the schools and the kids in the community by engaging in their school and extracurricular activities, visiting schools, and creating visible bonds and friendships with young people.

  • Be available to assist with key events, such as Children’s Camp and other church-wide initiatives.

• Volunteer and Staff Coordination:

  • Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers to assist in various aspects of the student ministry.

  • Coordinate and support Sunday School teachers and volunteers for Children’s Church and Wednesday night programs.

• Administrative Duties:

  • Ensure that all volunteers adhere to the church's policies, particularly those regarding child safety and protection.

  • Manage the student ministry budget, ensuring resources are used effectively and responsibly.

  • Maintain clear communication with parents, volunteers, and church leadership about student ministry activities and needs.

  • Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and make adjustments as needed to ensure the ministry is meeting its goals.

Qualifications:

• A deep and growing relationship with Jesus Christ, demonstrated through personal spiritual disciplines and a commitment to ministry.

• High School diploma required; Bachelor’s degree in theology, ministry, or a related field preferred but not required. A Seminary or Master’s degree is a plus.

• Previous experience in student or youth ministry is preferred.

• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills, with the ability to relate to and engage with students across a broad age range (pre-k through 12th grade).

• A heart for children and youth, and a desire to see them grow in their faith and relationship with Christ.

• A background in music is highly desirable, with the ability to lead worship or incorporate music into ministry activities.

Compensation:

• Competitive salary based on education and experience.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to deshabaptist@gmail.com. For more information about our church and community, visit www.fbcdesha.com.