DIRECTOR OF YOUTH MINISTRIES. Full time youth ministry position, overseeing grades 7-12. Solid program averaging 75-100 students. Looking to develop stronger discipleship model and local mission outreach. Strong adult leadership team including two college interns with great church support. Applicant should have a proven track record of successful youth ministry and a clear calling to work with teens. Seminary or Christian college training desired, ordination/candidacy not required. Salary $45,000-$60,000 commensurate with experience. Position available June 15, 2012. Madison UMC is a fast growing congregation with many new young adults and families. We are an orthodox and evangelical congregation with blended worship services averaging 650 a Sunday. Madison is a rapidly expanding suburban city located in the Jackson Metro area with great public schools. For more information please contact Rev. Jim Genesse (jim@madisonumc.org).

The United Methodist Children's Home (UMCH) has brought meaningful change to the lives of North Georgia's children, youth and families for over 140 years. Its mission, "grounded by scripture and the tradition of the church, seeks to bring the wholeness of God’s love to persons through Christ." It provides numerous programs aimed at preventing the breakup of families and restoring and healing separated families. Other programs teach teens and young adults how to create successful and meaningful lives for their own future families. In 2011, UMCH served approximately 1800 children and 1750 families across all programs and locations. Click here to read about a recent success story.

After faithfully serving for over 40 years, its current Executive Director is retiring from his post. This job is a wonderful career opportunity for a deeply committed Christian executive who is excited by the challenge of energizing and expanding this mission driven organization that has significant untapped potential.

We seek a seasoned, innovative, high energy, Chief Executive who will drive the development and execution of a future vision for UMCH and solidify it as an industry leader. The 100 acre main campus houses living quarters, classrooms, an administration building, thrift store, gymnasium with athletic fields and Chapel; there are 75 full-time employees and 4 small district offices.

Viable candidates will have:

- Prior demonstrated commitment/passion for UMCH’s mission

- 5+ yrs leadership experience in family and/or children’s social services strongly preferred 

- 10+ yrs general management responsibility for a business unit or nonprofit enterprise including experience:

-  Managing a $3 million operating budget or greater

- Setting and executing a new vision, driving a strategic planning process and/or managing a consultant to facilitate the above

-  Working closely with and/or building a Board of Directors preferred

-  Rebuilding/restructuring an organization preferred

- Leading the design and execution of a comprehensive fund-raising effort preferred

- Bachelors degree required, Master’s degree preferred

Woman’s Missionary Union of North Carolina is seeking a visionary, innovative Executive Director/Treasurer. Applicants must be mature in faith, demonstrating their missional lifestyle through membership and involvement in a local Christian church. Professional skills include proficiency in communications, use of technology, managing a complex budget, the supervision of professional and support staffs. A Master’s degree is preferred. Resumes may be sent to Kim.Bounds.wmunc@gmail.com or mailed to the attention of Kim Bounds, WMU NC, PO Box 18309, Raleigh, NC 27619-8309. Deadline for receipt is June 30, 2012.

About Us: Walk into St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church on any given Sunday, and the energy you’ll feel is palpable. We are a congregation made up of fun-loving, high-energy people who love God and each other. If you want to put your creativity, innovation, and unbridled passion for youth ministry to work, this is the place for you. As you know, church attendance has been sliding the last few years. At St. Matthew’s, in Sterling, Virginia, we’ve been breaking the mold of the traditional Episcopal church for 25 years, and as a result we are growing – both congregation and space. Our Vestry, Clergy, and most importantly, our congregation, is hungry for a youth program to bring our community, our family, even closer together. Are you ready to make your dream of youth ministry come true? Read on. In this role, you’re going to have the opportunity to: • Flex your visionary style to build and manage a best-in-class program for our high- and middle-school youth with an ambitious, but attainable goal of increasing active participation to 100+ youth within 6 months. • Use the autonomy afforded to you to provide fun, exciting, life-changing experiences that enable our youth to develop their relationship with God and enhance their spiritual growth as well as help them develop positive, healthy relationships with others.

You will be responsible for: • Identifying the needs and interests of teens within the church and local community (we draw from at least 4 different high schools and 4 different middle schools) to then plan and execute enriching activities such as service projects, mission trips, bible studies, hip events and meet-ups, and day to day outreach • Making the Gospel come alive and inspiring our youth to follow Jesus in their daily lives by developing meaningful relationships with them • Creating parallel, but separate programs for our middle-school youth and high-schoolers • Working closely with church leadership to promote and grow the program • Engaging and involving parents and other adult volunteers • Tangibly measuring your success by reporting monthly increases in participation and events Your success is measurable and will be determined by your ability to: • Relate with youth while at the same time be a leader to them • Demonstrate the challenging balance of coach, counselor, spiritual advisor, and friend to our youth • Provide fearless leadership, planning, communication, persuasion, and presentation skills • Possess an unparalleled work ethic To be most successful, you will have the following: • A bachelor’s degree in a related field (including, but not limited to theology, youth ministry, sociology, psychology, education, etc.) with an ideal candidate possessing a Master’s degree • 1-3 years of relevant experience gained through paid positions, volunteer work, and/or internships • Examples of high integrity, sound judgment in challenging situations, and grace under pressure

You will love this job if you: • Have an entrepreneurial spirit, working well with limited direction • Thrive on achieving challenging goals • Are seeking a role that will provide a variety of experiences and a varied daily schedule • Have a passion for helping others, especially youth This role isn’t the best fit for you if: • You’re looking simply to manage and maintain an already established program • You need constant supervision • A 9-to-5 work schedule is your type of schedule • Institutional alignment means more to you than authentic relationships

To apply, please send resume and cover letter to Office@stmtts.org

Houston Christian High School, a growing independent day school offering a college preparatory education to students in grades 9-12, is accepting applications from qualified candidates for the full-time position of Bible Instructor for the 2012-13 Academic school year.

Minimum Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree, Seminary degree preferred Classroom Experience Expansive knowledge of history, Biblical history and current events Ability to articulate and teach a Biblical worldview within the HCHS mission and philosophy is required. Candidates should possess excellent communication skills, a willingness to mentor students and the ability to incorporate 21st Century Skills into the curriculum.

Successful candidates will possess a vision for excellence and a strong desire to achieve success. Contribution to the life of the school outside the classroom is expected. A strong background in Socratic teaching methodology and higher order thinking paradigms is also recommended. Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, resume and the Houston Christian Professional Application complete with Teacher’s section to: HR@houstonchristian.org. Application can be accessed from the Employment page of our website. www.houstonchristian.org

First United Methodist Church seeks a full-time Director of Outreach Programs and Administration. Responsible for overseeing the development and execution of outreach ministry programs and for supervising administrative management of church office. Prefer seminary training, passion for outreach, and exceptional communication skills. Contact jmclayton45@gmail.com for complete position description and requirements.

The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) seeks a program manager for its Values & Capitalism project, a project to engage college students and faculty with a strong emphasis on reaching out to evangelical campuses. The project, which explores the moral and material nature of a market economy, includes campus debates, campus speaking events, a faculty network, national conferences, and a book series. The principal objective of the Values & Capitalism program is to promote AEI’s mission on campus. Job responsibilities for the position include the active daily and long-term management of all aspects of the project. Tasks include, but are not limited to: strategizing ways to accomplish the project mission; implementing project strategy and reporting metrics to executives; supervising events; engaging student leaders and faculty on campus; overseeing publicity and marketing activities across mediums; and producing a series of books and curriculum in conjunction with AEI scholars and the Values & Capitalism team. This position requires entrepreneurial experience, preferably from the idea to the execution stage. The position requires excellent interpersonal, communication, organizational and leadership skills. The ideal candidate would have experience with program management, marketing, and new media. Familiarity with the evangelical college community is strongly preferred. Qualified applicants should submit their resume, cover letter, transcripts, a 500 word writing sample and a 500 word essay explaining an entrepreneurial success with their online application.

Immediate opening for an Assistant at L'Arche Syracuse (Live-in or Live-out) L'Arche communities are places where those with disabilities, called core members, and those who share life with them, called assistants, live together in a faith-based community. We also have live out positions for assistants who may already be established locally. Assistants usually come for a minimum of a year. Experience with people with disabilities is not a requirement. For us, some of the most important criteria are an open heart, willingness to learn, commitment to personal growth, and belief in the unique sacredness and value of every individual. The role of assistant is diverse, and most people find their time in a L'Arche community to be life-giving, challenging, and fun. What follows is a general description of the assistant role. Assistant Role Responsibilities: To build a relationship of mutual care and support with persons with disabilities To foster a home life of unity, mutual respect and participation by all members To provide direct care supports and skill building for core members in: Personal care needs (clothing, hygiene, etc.), Money management Medical care, appointments Family and work connections Household chores, laundry Medications Meal preparation Qualifications: • 18 year old minimum and have a valid driver’s license • College education preferred • Interest in living in a faith community founded on the Beatitudes • Desire to work with individuals with disabilities • Creativity, flexibility, attention to detail and ability to organize time • Verbal and written communication skills • Ability to work as part of a team Compensation/Benefits: • Live-in Assistants receive full room and board • Both Live-in and Live out Assistants receive an hourly wage, are offered health and dental insurance options and receive paid time off • L’Arche Syracuse is an official AmeriCorps placement and, if eligible, could receive free room and board, a significant stipend and over 5,000 toward past or future education per full time award

Ginter Creek Baptist Church, a progressive congregation in Richmond, Virginia, is seeking an energetic, faithful and compassionate person as our pastor. We are seeking a woman or man who is an excellent biblical preacher, who is a knowledgeable and caring visitor to the sick and infirm, who shows gifts as an effective administrator, and who welcomes and affirms all God's children. We prefer that the candidate hold at least a M.Div degree from an accredited seminary and has had at least three years of ministerial experience. Our full pastor profile may be found on our website listed. Please submit cover letter and resume to pastorsearch@ginterparkbc.org. We will begin reviewing materials on May 20, 2012.

Youth Minister, 15 hours/week, St. James United Methodist Church. This person will administer, grow and develop the youth ministry of the church. Candidates should have a calling to youth ministry, an enjoyment of middle and high school students, enjoy working in team settings with other staff and adult volunteers. Candidates should have an understanding of United Methodist theology and practice, have a Master of Religious Education or its equivalent (or be in pursuit of same), have 1 year or more in leadership of youth, employed or volunteer. Candidates should have outstanding written and verbal communication skills, be computer literate, have strong organizational skills and be able to work independently. Duties include the planning and implementation of the overall youth program, including discipleship, mission, and fellowship; recruiting, training and empowering adult volunteers; building relationships with the youth; maintaining strong communication with youth, their families, the staff and volunteers, and the congregation. Resumes should be submitted to kim@stjamesraleigh.org along with references.

Interfaith Worker Justice is looking for outgoing, dynamic, a self starter seminarian, who is passionate about social justice, to lead a Labor Day Sunday project in Charlotte, North Carolina. The job requires 20-25 hours of work a week, including some weekends. Dates: June 11th-September 3. Main responsibilities: 1. Recruit 100 congregations in Charlotte, NC to participate in the Labor Day Sunday program. 2. Create a program committee of religious leaders in Charlotte to help provide leadership to the program. 3. Attend Wild Goose Festival (June 21-24) with IWJ organizers to staff exhibit booth and recruit churches to participate in Labor Day Sunday program. Stipend and training: 1. The intern will need to attend training in Chicago from June 11-15th and be able to live and work in Charlotte, NC until Labor Day weekend. 2. Intern will be supervised by Interfaith Worker Justice’s national organizer who will visit Charlotte periodically to help with the project. 3. There will be a stipend of $3,000 for the summer and travel to and from Chicago and training cost will be covered General Background: Labor in the Pulpits (on the Bimah, in the Mitzbah) is a national program organized jointly by Interfaith Worker Justice and the AFL-CIO to lift up the shared values between faith and labor over Labor Day weekend. Congregations are invited to host labor speakers, organize special labor education programs or learn about a local worker struggle. Interfaith Worker Justice provides congregations with bulletin inserts, sample sermons and other resources to assist in lifting up labor issues over Labor Day weekend. Charlotte Background: The Democratic Convention begins in Charlotte, September 4, 2012, the day after Labor Day. On Labor Day itself, the Convention is sponsoring “a family-friendly Labor Day event at Charlotte Motor Speedway.” Although few know exactly what this will look like, it is unlikely to focus on the core values of the labor movement. All major religious traditions have strong teachings on the rights of workers to be treated with respect and dignity, earn living wages and engage in organizing and collective bargaining. These teachings are being routinely thwarted in the current economy. Labor Day is an opportune time for congregations to reflect on the teachings and explore new ways for supporting workers. To apply: 1. Please send your resume to Sung Yeon Choi-Morrow at schoi-morrow@iwj.org along with a 300-500 word answer to the following question: Why are you interested in working with Interfaith Worker Justice and what is your understanding of the importance of worker rights within your faith context? For more information, contact Ms. Sung Yeon Choi-Morrow at 312-513-2289 or schoi-morrow@iwj.org.

Requirements: • Ability to build teams that reflect spiritual vitality, positive relational dynamics, and musical excellence • Ability to read music and play at least one musical instrument (preferably keyboard) • At least two years of post-secondary education and a strong background in music • Confidence and effectiveness speaking before groups • Experience in choral conducting, vocal performance, and church music ministry • Basic computer skills (i.e. Microsoft Office, e-mail)

General Description: The Director of Music Ministries is responsible for the coordination and oversight of the music ministry of the church. He/she must demonstrate genuine appreciation for and competence with both traditional and contemporary musical expressions. The Director of Music Ministries is primarily responsible to the Lead Pastor, and secondarily responsible to the Staff-Parish Relations Committee. This position is based on a 20 hour per week schedule and has flexibility of schedule to accommodate for evening and weekend responsibilities. Responsibilities: • Cooperate with the Lead Pastor and other staff in worship planning for weekly and occasional services, including selection of congregational songs, adequate preparation of choir anthems, special music, cantatas, and other music related features of worship • Recruit and develop members of the church for music ministry (i.e. Children’s Choir, Praise Team, Ensembles) • Assist in leading worship, including introducing and leading congregational singing and offering public prayer • Direct rehearsals and performances of the adult choir, supervise the leadership of other musical groups within the church, and promote positive relationships with and among those involved in the music ministry of the church • Supervise music staff and volunteer musicians • Recommend and approve musical selections for weddings, funerals, and other special services of the church • Be available to counsel regarding and/or coordinate music for special church projects • Supervise maintenace of the music library and equipment (i.e. purchased music, musical insturments,accessories) • Prepare and administer the annual music ministry budget reflecting the needs of the entire music program and in accordance with the mission of Mount Zion UMC • Communicate with the congregation regarding music ministry (i.e. newsletter articles) • Attend the following meetings: Staff, Administrative Council, Worship Team • Engage in continuous learning through continuing education events and personal study • Other responsibilities assigned

We are looking for a part-time child care worker for children ages birth to three years old. Hours would include Sunday mornings from 9:30am-12:30pm and occasional evenings as need. Prior experience is preferred.

Greenwood Forest Baptist Church (CBF), a welcoming community of faith, seeks a half-time Music Minister to help plan worship, lead choirs, and coordinate music programs. To apply, submit cover letter and resume with references to: mmsearch@gfbccary.org, or Music Minister Search Committee, GFBC, 110 SE Maynard Rd., Cary, NC 27511.

Greenwood Forest Baptist Church (CBF), a welcoming community of faith, seeks a half-time Music Minister to help plan worship, lead choirs, and coordinate music programs. To apply, submit cover letter and resume with references.

Primary Function: Disciple youth into a transforming relationship with Christ by modeling Christian character and developing ministry programs that cultivate spiritual growth to include planning, implementing, overseeing and evaluating youth ministry programs.

Qualifications: Must possess a vocational calling to youth ministry, strong leadership, integrity and communication (written and verbal) skills; must be licensed or ordained minister; M. Div or undergraduate degree in related field preferred. Consideration will be given to candidates with equivalent education and experience. Candidate should exhibit qualities of an exemplary role model and a caring person who can relate to youth, church staff and leadership.

To view the detailed job description and/or download the application package please visit the church website.

Mail Application along with resume, cover letter, and two recent sermons (DVD, CD, or URL to full sermons that are online) should be sent to Baptist Grove Church, Attn: Youth Minister Position, 7109 Leesville Road, Raleigh, NC 27613. EOE. 7109 Leesville Road, Raleigh, NC 27613

Dauphin Way United Methodist Church, in the heart of historic Mobile, Alabama, seeks a part-time Contemporary Worship Leader for our TGIS contemporary worship services. Dauphin Way United Methodist Church is a growing congregation of 2100, with both traditional and contemporary worship services. Working with the pastoral staff, the Contemporary Worship Leader will share in planning and leading two Sunday morning worship services. The Worship Leader will also work with our current worship band, as well as recruit and train other musicians to serve in leadership positions. Salary negotiable based upon experience and other duties performed. For questions or further information, please contact Dr. Jeff Wilson (jwilson@dauphinwayumc.org). Resume, including cover letter and three references, should be emailed to dmaly@dauphinwayumc.org. Applications will be reviewed beginning April 10, 2012.

First Christian Church is in search of an intern to work with our growing community garden ministry. The Garden Ministry of First Christian Church exists to use the gifts and talents of the congregation to grow fresh produce to share with the community, and to encourage healthy eating and the support of locally-grown foods. Our garden is tended completely by volunteers from the congregation, who plant and harvest food to be shared with the church and a local food pantry. A strong and committed volunteer base means this program is growing as we enter our third season and the right candidate for this internship will help us tap into this momentum and share the harvest with our community. The position is ideal for a college or seminary student interested in community gardening, ministry, non-profit management, or community service.

Macedonia Baptist Church, Raleigh/Cary, NC, seeks a part-time (20 hour per week) Youth Minister for middle school and high school students. Duties will include but not limited to Sunday school, Wednesday evening discipleship, youth targeted activities, outreach, special programs and retreats. We are looking for a dynamic person who can relate well to youth, is God-directed and has a mature faith with the ability to communicate that faith to the youth. This person should view this position as an opportunity to grow the Christian faith in youth and involve them in the broader ministry of Macedonia Baptist Church. The ideal candidate will have a four-year college degree, experience and a passion for working with middle school and high school students.

To apply, submit a letter of interest and a resume that includes both a Statement of Faith and a Statement of Call to Ministry to Macedonia Baptist Church, ATTN: Debbie Johnson, Chair, Personnel Ministry Team 7100 Holly Springs Road, Raleigh, NC 27606. Questions can be directed to Debbie Johnson at debbjo@nc.rr.com or (919)417-8154.

Faith Reformed Church, a well-established congregation in beautiful Traverse City, Michigan, is seeking an experienced lead pastor. FRC is in prayer for a pastor who is committed to strong Biblical preaching, possesses a humble servant's heart and who will champion FRC's mission: "To Know Christ and to Make Him Known". The successful candidate will be dedicated to discipleship and the spiritual growth of new believers as well as existing members of our congregation. For more information, please contact the search committee at patr@faithreformedchurchtc.org.

Consider joining L’Arche Greater Washington, DC, where people with and without intellectual disabilities live together in family-like homes and give witness to the reality that persons with disabilities possess inherent qualities of welcome, wonderment, and friendship. Share your love, laughter, and talents in our interdenominational Christian community where all are welcome. Room and board, generous stipend, insurance, and Americorps education grant are available.

Pilgrim Reformed Church in Lexington, NC is seeking a pastor to lead its congregation in service and spiritual development. The historic church, founded in 1757 by German settlers, is located in a quiet, rural setting approximately 15 miles south of Winston-Salem, NC. For more information and a job description, contact LaRue L. Cline, Pastoral Committee chair, at lcline1@triad.rr.com

A renewable contract position of 30 hours per month, supervised by the pastor, providing educational programming for children ages 5 – 12 (approximately 10 children) at Peace Covenant Church of the Brethren in Durham, North Carolina.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: • Provide programming and lead children’s church every week (70% of the position). • Provide a short children’s story during worship every week (10% of the position). • Create and oversee a nursery volunteer parent schedule for babies and toddlers ages 0 to 2.5 years of age (5% of the position). • Coordinate and direct the children’s Christmas play, or drama, or music (10% of the position). • Other duties commensurate with the individuals gifts, abilities and the evolving children’s ministry

EXPECTATIONS: • Possess effective interpersonal and communication skills with children & adults • Be familiar with children’s ministry resources • Demonstrate a genuine love for children • Exercise initiative and good judgment • Possess good mental and physical health

ACCOUNTABILITY FACTORS: • Report to and meet with the Pastor to review plans and set goals as requested, consulting with parents as needed. • Provide a monthly report to the Coordinating Council (5% of the position). QUALIFICATIONS and EDUCATION: • Must be a Christian, but preference will be given to candidates with Church of the Brethren affiliation or supportive of Anabaptist theology. • Possess a Red Cross CPR Certification, or be willing to become certified • Prefer a College graduate enrolled in seminary • Prefer a candidate with experience in children’s ministry, and/or training in early childhood development • Prefer a candidate with music, or drama, or art abilities • Bilingual a plus

BENEFITS • $1,500 for a 4-month contract (renewable), which is $375 per month.

APPLICATION Submit resume and cover-letter to duane.deardorff@unc.edu or Matthew.incorvaia@gmail.com. Questions, call 401-4180 or 450-7063.

Green’s Farms Church (GFC in Westport, CT, a community of faith that believes churches in general provide youth with a unique opportunity to find meaning and connection in their lives), is seeking a Youth Minister. GFC is a youthful and lively church that welcomes members and non-members through a growing ministry serving youth and adults alike. With a current membership of 630, the Church offers excellent youth and children’s ministries, a joyous and renewing worship service with a strong music program, an engaging faith formation program for adults, and ample opportunities for service and outreach to a needy world. This youth ministry requires a uniquely talented individual who fulfills the aspirations of our congregation. The ideal Youth Minister will possess a soul that is deeply connected to God, a heart that beats for youth and can inspire and transform young lives, a personality that is ready to function in the Westport micro-culture, and a mind that knows how to plan and organize group events. If interested, please contact Rick Heltne, Search Consultant with Ministry by Design at rheltne@simainternational.com

More details on our eleven month training cycle, and the initial application, are on our website. 

We are a small, multidenominational, training center for intentional community and Christian spiritual formation. If you looking for mentoring opportunities where you will share life together with other adults engaged in Christian intentional community, your next step may be a Formation House residency! “Gather at the table” - whether sharing meals, prayer times, or community life training sessions, the common life of Formation House is all around tables. And the majority of one’s learning simply flows out of experiences in sharing daily life: praying, eating, and serving. - led by an on-site Core Group (including Fuller alum, Rev. Karen Sloan ‘04) - weekly classroom sessions covering essential skills for community life (healthy relationship dynamics, leadership, communication) - daily spiritual formation via prayer and scripture times - located in Pittsburgh, PA - runs mid August to late July Costs and compensation during the residency varies for every person. The most popular financial arrangement involves having all expenses covered, plus benefits and a $5,000 credit towards student loan repayment. Those who complete the residency, incorporate Formation House training into their future goals of providing leadership at established worshipping communities, or coordinating with friends to start new Christian intentional communities.

What friends are saying ~ Karen Sloan is a wise and insightful woman. She is helping the Church rediscover the lost art of spiritual formation. I hope that a generation from now, thanks to folks like Karen and Formation House, we will see a Church filled, not just with believers, but with followers of Christ. After all, Jesus sent us into the world not just to make believers, but to form disciples. ~ Shane Claiborne, www.thesimpleway.org Formation House is an experiment in turning a year of service into a year of holistic formation for a life of service. If you're not only interested in doing something, but also in becoming a different kind of person, this could be the experience for you. ~ Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, www.newmonasticism.org. Learn more and apply at - www.formationhouse.org.

We are a small, multidenominational, training center for intentional community and Christian spiritual formation. If you looking for mentoring opportunities where you will share life together with other adults engaged in Christian intentional community, your next step may be a Formation House residency! “Gather at the table” - whether sharing meals, prayer times, or community life training sessions, the common life of Formation House is all around tables. And the majority one’s learning simply flows out of experiences in sharing daily life: praying, eating, and serving. - led by an on-site Core Group (including Fuller alum, Rev. Karen Sloan ‘04) - weekly classroom sessions covering essential skills for community life (healthy relationship dynamics, leadership, communication) - daily spiritual formation via prayer and scripture times - located in Pittsburgh, PA - runs mid August to late July Costs and compensation during the residency varies for every person. The most popular financial arrangement involves having all expenses covered, plus benefits and a $5,000 credit towards student loan repayment. Those who complete the residency, incorporate Formation House training into their future goals of providing leadership at established worshipping communities, or coordinating with friends to start new Christian intentional communities. What friends are saying ~ Karen Sloan is a wise and insightful woman. She is helping the Church rediscover the lost art of spiritual formation. I hope that a generation from now, thanks to folks like Karen and Formation House, we will see a Church filled, not just with believers, but with followers of Christ. After all, Jesus sent us into the world not just to make believers, but to form disciples. ~ Shane Claiborne, www.thesimpleway.org Formation House is an experiment in turning a year of service into a year of holistic formation for a life of service. If you're not only interested in doing something, but also in becoming a different kind of person, this could be the experience for you. ~ Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, www.newmonasticism.org.  More details on our eleven month training cycle, and the initial application, are on our website, www.formationhouse.org.

The Downers Grove UMC congregation is seeking a full time Youth Minister to develop and lead programs and ministry opportunities for Junior and Senior High students and College-age youth. Other responsibilities include recruiting and training of adult volunteers; acting as a liaison with our Youth Choir in planning and supporting choir tours; and implementing a yearly confirmation program. This person would also be expected to orchestrate and help lead yearly mission trips for youth. We are seeking someone who has a good sense of humor, a passion for working with young people, and professional skills to enable the above responsibilities. This position will be open beginning in January, 2012. Questions and resumes can be addressed to The Downers Grove First United Methodist Church, 1032 Maple Ave., Downers Grove, IL (Phone: 630-968-7120; email dgfumc.org).

Position Description: RELATIONSHIP TO THE CHURCH: The Interim Associate Pastor is an employee of the Congregation at Duke University Chapel. ACCOUNTABILITY: The Interim Associate Pastor (IAP) will under the supervision of the Pastor of the Congregation for a period of time to coincide with a search process for a Senior Pastor to the Congregation. The IAP will work with the ministerial team of the Congregation at Duke University Chapel and be accountable to the Pastor and the Congregation’s council. The Staff Parish Relations Committee, together with the Pastor, establishes the scope of responsibilities and specific terms of employment for the IAP, and provides a forum for evaluation of the ministerial responsibilities of the IAP. SPECIFIC DUTIES: Interim Associate Pastor provides support and oversight to a variety of ministries for the Congregation at Duke Chapel. Based upon and related to the passions and gifts of the IAP, this person will help with general pastoral ministries including, but not limited to the following: A. Care and Counseling Ministry i. Provide pastoral care and counseling to members as needed, and especially in the event of sickness, surgery, and loss ii. Pastoral visits to retirement communities where multiple members reside, including Forest at Duke and Fearrington Village iii. Take staff leadership of and provide resourcing for the continued development and coordination of the lay visitation and outbound communion ministry of the Congregation B. Ministry Coordination i. Be primary staff person providing leadership and resourcing for the development, coordination, and evaluation of the World Mission Ministries ii. Be primary staff person providing leadership and resourcing for the development, coordination, and evaluation of the Environmental Stewardship committee iii. Assist the Pastor in coordinating community outreach, including enhancing our relationship with Antioch Baptist Church of Durham iv. Provide leadership in other designated areas based on interest and skills C. Other i. Develop, implement, and coordinate ministries in conjunction with the Congregation Council and pastors ii. Assist staff in communication efforts of the Congregation including the weekly eNews, the monthly newsletter, and the ministry pages of our website iii. Assist the Pastor in the teaching and worship leading ministries of the Congregation iv. Attend worship services each Sunday v. Attend meetings of Congregation staff, Congregation Council, and other groups as appropriate vi. Assist the Pastor and lay leadership in articulating the purpose, mission and vision of the Congregation at Duke Chapel, and in programming to achieve its goals and objectives vii. Be an active participant in the community life of the Congregation at Duke Chapel viii. Practice the appropriate keeping of confidences, and maintain the integrity of confidential data Qualifications: A. Master of Divinity (or Equivalent) B. Ordained Elder (or in elder ordination process with Sacramental privileges) C. Ability to incorporate the beliefs and practices of the Christian faith into programmed activities. D. Strong communication skills. Ability to recruit, motivate, lead, and encourage volunteer workers, and to communicate the vision for ministry at the Congregation at Duke University Chapel. E. Team player: ability to work cooperatively, fruitfully, and creatively as a member of the church staff, and with diverse groups within the congregation. Ability to offer leadership in meetings. F. Ability to recognize occasions when referral is appropriate. G. Self-starter with the ability to manage details, meet deadlines, and work in an atmosphere with minimal direct supervision on a day-to-day basis. H. Be a disciple growing into maturity, practicing and commending the spiritual disciplines both by teaching and example.