Bethesda Church

Youth Pastor

Full-Time · $40,000

Are you passionate about investing in students and sharing Jesus with them? Are you looking to be part of a healthy, relational, growing church? Is God drawing you to this ministry opportunity? — About Bethesda Church: Bethesda is a Jesus-centered, relational, and missional church in Rockford, IL. We are a 100-year-old congregation that has been experiencing a season of growth and renewal over the past five years. We like to say we are Rockford’s newest old church. Currently, our average Sunday attendance is 280 people and trending upward. Our youth ministry averages about 30–35 junior and senior high students on Sunday nights. Position Overview: We are looking for a relational, mission-minded, Christ-centered person to continue reaching and discipling students. The position includes three primary areas of focus: Collaborate with Staff. Our team is close and enjoys having fun! You would be joining a staff that includes a Lead Pastor, Children’s Pastor, Worship Pastor, and Connections Pastor. We do ministry together. Build and Equip a Team. Rather than doing all the ministry yourself, you will attract and equip a team of people to love and disciple students. The foundation of this team is already built but has room to grow. Reach and Disciple Students. Our church is built on mission and discipleship. We want to see our students continue to reach and impact their peers as they spend time with Jesus, learn from Him, and become more like Him. Job Description: Youth Pastor/Director Ministry Goals Love students. Share Jesus. General Expectations for All Staff - Personally seek Jesus and grow in your relationship with God. - Form positive, caring relationships with all members of the church. - Participate in and contribute to the overall mission of Bethesda. - Be positive—your attitude is contagious. Youth Pastor Job Description: The Youth Pastor is responsible for reaching and discipling students ages 11–22. This includes serving as the primary leader for our junior and senior high ministries, as well as developing a young adult ministry. The Youth Pastor should be able to attract and mentor volunteers, love and disciple students, and reach our city’s youth with the gospel. Youth Pastor Expectations: - Spend personal quiet time seeking Jesus every day. - Support the Children’s Pastor and children’s ministry. - Champion our junior and senior high ministries: Attract and train a team of volunteers to love and disciple students. Build a mentoring culture of life-on-life discipleship. Plan and lead a weekly junior and/or senior high youth group night that aligns with our vision to love students and share Jesus. - Regularly work “out of the office” by spending time with students and building relationships with unchurched youth. - Plan quarterly outreach events that help students and families invite others to connect with the church. - Lead junior and senior high students in winter and summer camps and mission trips. - Support the Children’s Pastor in planning and executing a week of summer camp at Bethesda, where junior and senior high students serve as primary program staff and counselors. - Start and develop a young adult ministry. - Manage your schedule effectively. - Fulfill administrative responsibilities as required. About Rockford, IL: Rockford offers a compelling mix of affordability, natural beauty, and community spirit, making it an appealing place to live. Nestled along the Rock River, the city features scenic parks, easy access to outdoor recreation, and attractions like Anderson Japanese Gardens, along with a revitalized downtown filled with local restaurants and arts venues. Housing costs are relatively low compared to larger Illinois cities, while still providing access to good schools, healthcare, and job opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. With friendly neighborhoods, a growing cultural scene, and a convenient location within driving distance of Chicago and Madison, Rockford strikes a balance between small-city comfort and regional connectivity.