The Director of Christian Education (DCE) shall promote the study of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as found in Scripture in accordance with the Mission Statement of Salem UMC, and shall provide ministry and care to the youth, children, and adults of Salem UMC and their families. The DCE must have a sense of call and passion for Christian education and ministry that is grounded in an understanding and appreciation of United Methodist theology. This person shall have a commitment to the Christian faith, and ability to nurture people as disciples of Jesus Christ. This person must also see this professional position as an opportunity to develop Christian faith and integrate all congregation members into the broader ministries of Salem UMC. 

Specific Qualifications • A Bachelor’s degree is preferred • Experience in Christian education and/or youth ministry (2-3 yrs. preferred) • Knowledge of faith development and the ability to incorporate this understanding into programming • Demonstrated leadership and organizational skills • Strong interpersonal skills in working with volunteers and people of all ages • An ability to identify and foster leadership in adults, youth and children • Excellent oral, written, and computer based communication skills • An attitude of flexibility and adaptability in the face of the changing moods and plans especially when working with children, youth and adults • Ability to exercise independent judgment and preserve confidentiality.

Specific Responsibilities • Assesses needs, evaluates materials, develops programs, and oversees volunteers for: • Sunday School classes for all ages • Adult Christian education including short term and long term Bible Studies • Special intergenerational activities: - Vacation Bible School - Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter Programs • Assesses needs and develops programs for: • Recruiting, training, and supervising volunteers • Reviewing and evaluating all ministry materials • Maintaining current education on knowledge of family systems, youth development, youth culture, and applying biblical teaching to daily life in the context of United Methodist theology • Attends and encourages youth to attend and actively participate in UMYF events • Organizes an annual youth-led Sunday service, social service/outreach opportunities, regular youth group gatherings, fundraising events, and activities with other denominational church youth groups • Initiates, develops, and implements objectives, plans and programs • Oversees Education Committee to develop, administer, and maintain annual budget • Maintains communication with the: • Church Council, including monthly reports • Staff, which includes Pastor, Director of Fine Arts, Secretary and Facilities Manager • Congregation • Implements and maintains the Safe Sanctuary policy • Writes, and recruits others to write, monthly articles for the Salem Matters, describing past events and advertising current and future events • Flexible in work hours, including weekends and evenings; present on Sundays • Participates in weekly staff meetings. 

Current Working Conditions - The position of DCE is a full-time salaried position, based upon a projected 40 hours per week. Fulfilling the responsibilities of the position requires a variety of actual number of hours during certain weeks at different times of the year; however, regularly scheduled office hours are kept. The DCE is accountable to the Staff Parish Committee, Pastor, and Education Committee.