Children's Ministry Director

STARKVILLE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

This is a full-time position responsible for the children’s ministry of Starkville First United Methodist Church. This individual will work with the pastors, staff, members, and the community at-large to advance the work of Christ through the mission of the church.

This is an active and engaged congregation that is community-minded, mission-oriented, and firmly established in the United Methodist tradition. The City of Starkville is a vibrant community with strong ties to Mississippi State University.

This position is a vital component of the ministry team. This individual will work with families to lead the children of our church into a life of faith and a personal relationship with Christ through spiritual formation, service, fellowship, and support. This person must be able to work within a ministry team and play an essential role in the coordination, planning, and activities of the children’s ministry (birth through 6th Grade) and the overall church.

• Plan, coordinate, promote, and implement an annual calendar of events for children to include Sunday mornings, Wednesday nights, and a summer program. Additional events should include but not be limited to the following: Easter egg hunts, Awesome Overnight retreats, Parent’s Night Out, Bible presentations, Advent Fair, Fall Festival, Lenten events, Children’s Sunday, and Vacation Bible School.

• Coordination and promotion of children’s activities, via social media.

• Update bulletin and church website with information on children’s programming.

• Organize teachers for Sunday School classes and develop curriculum.

• Schedule and direct acolytes during both traditional services.

• Lead the children’s sermon during both traditional services.

• Organize and lead Sunday School programs for nursery through 6th grade.

• Supervise the Nursery Coordinator and recruit nursery volunteers.

• Recruit new families with children to the church.

• Supervise and provide leadership for children’s program interns.

• Prepare and lead Wednesday night services.

• Meet with families and participate in children’s external activities.

• Serve as a coordinator between the Senior Pastor and the Weekday Ministries Program.

• Meet with Children’s Council, as needed, to develop program calendars and evaluate children’s programming.

• Other duties as assigned by the Senior Pastor.

• Report directly to the Senior Pastor.

• Routine office hours are Monday – Thursday from 8:30am – 4:30pm and Friday from 8:30am – noon. Occasional duties outside of routine office hours may be required.

• Provide information to the Finance Committee, Board of Trustees, and Staff-Parish Relations Committee as requested.

• Adhere to the Staff Policies and Procedures Manual of the Starkville First United

Methodist Church.

• Must maintain a professional appearance and be courteous, at all times.

• Must successfully complete a background check to include a financial component.

• Bachelor’s Degree and experience in working with children is preferred. However, extensive experience may compensate for the lack of a four-year degree.

• Proficient in basic office management software and computer skills such as Word and Excel.

• Proficient in social media application to include Remind, GroupMe, and other communication programs.

• Knowledgeable in policies and procedures related to a safe and effective

Children’s ministry.

• Written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

• A strong sense of time management, and an ability to work independently.

• Knowledge and understanding of the United Methodist Church beliefs and seasons

of the church.

• Salary range starts at $30,000 but is also commensurate with your education

and experience.

• Defined contribution plan (403b) with generous match.

• Paid vacation/sick leave is provided.

• For questions, additional information, or to apply for this position, please contact Mike Tagert, Chairman of the Staff-Parish Relations Committee, at 662-769-6454 or mdtagert@gmail.com.

• All applications should include a cover letter, resume, and three professional references.

• Applications will be received through March 31, 2024 or until a candidate has been selected.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $30,000.00 - $40,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to Relocate:

• Starkville, MS 39759: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person