Community and Discipleship Pastor

Job Description

The Community and Discipleship Pastor is responsible for creating, developing, and overseeing a robust small group ministry, discipleship pathway, and coaching/shepherding structure to support spiritual growth and community engagement within the church. This role will focus on equipping leaders, engaging small group participants, and fostering a culture of discipleship and community.

Key Responsibilities:

Small Group Ministry Development:

• Design, implement, and oversee a small group strategy.
• Recruit, train, and empower small group leaders to effectively lead and shepherd their groups.
• Ensure alignment of small group content with the church’s mission, vision, and values.

Coaching and Shepherding Structure

• Develop and implement a scalable coaching model to provide ongoing support, encouragement, and accountability for small group leaders.
• Train and oversee volunteer coaches to mentor and support small group leaders effectively.
• Foster a culture of care and relational discipleship among leaders and participants.

Discipleship Pathway Development:

• Create and manage a clear, engaging discipleship pathway (Saddlebacks, “Activate”, 101-401 or similar structure) for individuals to grow spiritually and deepen their faith.
• Provide resources, training, and systems for leaders to guide individuals along the pathway.
• Integrate small groups and discipleship initiatives with churchwide spiritual growth goals and multi week campaign type events (For Example: 40 Days of Purpose, Rooted, etc.).

Leadership Development and Training:

• Host regular leader training events, workshops, and leadership retreats to equip small group leaders and coaches.
• Identify and develop emerging leaders to expand the small group and discipleship ministries.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with pastoral staff and ministry leaders to ensure small groups and discipleship efforts align with the overall mission of the church.
• Communicate regularly with the congregation about opportunities to join small groups and participate in discipleship initiatives.

Evaluation and Reporting:

• Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of small groups, coaching structures, and the discipleship pathway.
• Track and report participation, leader engagement, and spiritual growth metrics to church leadership.

Other Responsibilities:

• Preaching and teaching as needed
• General pastoral care to include: hospital/home visits, weddings, funerals, biblical counseling
• Any other duties deemed necessary by the Lead or Executive Pastor

Qualifications

• A vibrant and growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• A degree in theology, ministry, or a related field (preferred).
• 3-5 years of experience in small group ministry, discipleship, or a similar pastoral role.
• Familiarity with Saddleback’s Activate model or similar curriculum (101-401) and a willingness to implement it effectively.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and relational skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proven ability to recruit, train, and develop leaders.
• A heart for shepherding and a passion for helping people grow in their faith and connection to the church community.

Core Competencies and Attributes

• A team player who values collaboration and fosters unity.
• A visionary leader with the ability to inspire and mobilize volunteers.
• A shepherd’s heart with a focus on relational ministry.
• Committed to the mission, vision, and values of NorthField Church.
• Flexible and adaptable to the changing needs of ministry.