Associate Pastor of Families Full Time

 Associate Pastor of Families
Bethesda Baptist Church
 
Primary Purpose:
The Associate Pastor of Families will lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive discipleship strategy for families at Bethesda Baptist Church. This includes partnering with and equipping parents, overseeing ministry programs for children (from birth) through young adults, and serving as the primary pastor and shepherd for junior high and senior high students. The Associate Pastor will be responsible for teaching, recruiting, training, and deploying volunteer leaders while supporting families as they pursue Bethesda’s mission to love God, love others, and engage the world with the gospel.
 
Church Leadership Responsibilities:
Serve on the pastoral leadership team to help fulfill the overall church vision.
Champion and communicate the vision for the Family Ministry department.
Assist in providing pastoral care for the congregation.
Support and participate in church-wide events and initiatives.
Attend and contribute to regular staff meetings and prayer times.
Provide sound biblical teaching and theological leadership.
Oversee and manage the Family Ministry budget.
 
Leadership Development:
Provide vision, direction, and alignment across all areas of the Family Ministry.
Recruit, equip, encourage, and care for volunteers serving in family ministry roles.
Ensure all new volunteers are properly trained to serve children, students, parents, and young adults effectively.
 
Programming and Ministry Oversight:
Lead and oversee weekly Sunday morning and midweek gatherings for junior and senior high students, including teaching, activities, and logistical preparation.
Oversee programming for children (birth through young adults) on Sundays and midweek.
Plan and coordinate events, camps, and retreats for families and students (e.g., family camp, youth retreats, VBS, and mission trips).
Establish a cohesive and comprehensive curriculum across all age groups within the Family Ministry.
Develop and implement a strategy for ongoing parent training and encouragement, such as Bible studies to help understand their role and responsibilities in discipling their children.
Ensure the safety and security of children and students by maintaining and enforcing all appropriate volunteer safety protocols.
 
Essential Qualifications:
A growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ demonstrated through spiritual maturity and consistent Christian character.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited Bible college or university is required; a Master’s degree (or current pursuit of one) from an accredited seminary is preferred, with a focus in ministry or theology.
A deep love for children, students, families, and young adults—along with the ability to connect across all generations.
Proven experience in recruiting, organizing, and developing volunteer teams.
A high-energy, relational leader and team builder with a passion for reaching families and the lost in the community.