Snapshot

Denomination: UMC

Weekly Attendance:  160

Location: Fairfax, VA

The Role: Director of Youth and Missions 

Meet Fairfax UMC:

The history and origins of Fairfax United Methodist Church (Fairfax UMC) trace back to the early 1800s and the town of Fairfax, VA’s beginning. Fairfax UMC continues to be a presence representing the teachings of Christ in our community. They have been certified as a welcoming congregation in the United Methodist Church, their Preschool was recognized in Northern Virginia Magazine, and they continue to work with organizations in the community to fight homelessness and poverty in the Fairfax area.

Through their worship experiences, Bible studies, musical offerings, fellowship events, and missions, they seek to connect with those gathered here on Sunday mornings and with the community beyond their building. Ultimately, their mission and vision are grounded in the truth of the Gospel and the mission of The United Methodist Church to be Disciples of Jesus Christ who are lifelong learners and who influence others to serve.

About the Director of Youth and Missions:

Fairfax United Methodist Church is seeking a full-time director of Youth and Missions to mentor the youth in the congregation and to lead ministry efforts. This person will also be entrusted with recruiting and training volunteers to serve in youth and ministry. The ideal candidate will be someone with organizational skills, and a relational mindset, and a passion for youth ministry.

The Director of Youth and Missions Responsibilities Include: 

• Lead, plan, develop, and implement all aspects of a balanced youth ministry program while advocating for youth and educating the congregation about the hopes, concerns, and needs of youth in the local church and community.

• Communicate programs, schedules, and activities to youth, their families, the congregation, counselors, and families in a timely fashion.

• Mentor youth in developing their leadership skills and provide spiritual support for youth in crisis.

• Recruit and train volunteers who work with youth in all aspects of youth ministry and ensure adequate volunteer support and appropriate adult-to-youth ratios, recruit and train youth volunteers to support various ministries at FUMC.

• Intentionally schedule time to develop relationships with youth.

• Coordinate and teach confirmation classes and provide leadership for the confirmands, mentors, and parents beyond the classroom. Plan Youth Sundays once a year. Coordinate the Easter Sunrise worship service led by youth.

• Be a liaison between the church and other community organizations, people, and resources that relate to youth and youth ministries.

• Keep a record of youth participation and manage the youth ministry budget.

• Supervise and lead the planning of weekly programs, retreats, youth missions fundraising, and other significant events.

• Participate in staff meetings, including staff team collaboration, and participate in the regional youth ministry cohort of United Methodist Churches.

• Ensure compliance with the “Guidelines for the Protection of Children and Youth” in all youth ministry settings.

• Recruit, manage, coach, and care for all mission/outreach servants and leaders and coordinate adult mission service opportunities.

• Manage the process of engaging groups within the church to develop a culture of service and compassion.

• Evaluate and assess service needs and opportunities to improve community engagement and support.

• Research and network to develop new and successful programs.

• Serve as a staff person to the Missions Pillar and Learning Pillar.

What You Bring: 

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Director of Youth and Missions:

Education & Experience

• BA in education/religious studies or a relevant field

• 2 years experience as a Youth Director or equivalent experience working with youth

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must demonstrate a vision and ability to plan, develop, coordinate, manage, and implement programs within the parameters of the United Methodist Church

• Proven ability to work effectively with youth, diverse individuals, and teams of volunteers

• Ability to work with deadlines while maintaining attention to detail, diligence, and a commitment to excellence

• Strong communication skills and ability to deliver clear messages and listen effectively

Personal Characteristics & Qualifications

• Called to minister in the name of Jesus Christ embracing Christian discipline and utilizing spiritual gifts

• Highly relational

• Satisfactorily completes the criminal background check

What it's Like to Live in Fairfax, VA: 

Living in Fairfax, VA offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience, being just 25 minutes from Washington, D.C. Fairfax attracts families with its top-rated school system and numerous homeschool co-ops. This tight-knit community is steeped in rich history, hosting many community events that foster a strong sense of togetherness. Residents enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring local parks and historic sites to shopping and dining in the quaint downtown area. With its friendly atmosphere and vibrant community life, Fairfax is an ideal place to call home.

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