Pastor/Director of Student Ministries

Job Description

Pastor/Director of Student Ministries (6th–12th Grade) New Life Church – Morton, Illinois

New Life Church is seeking a Pastor/Director of Student Ministries to lead and invest in the next generation (grades 6–12). New Life exists to equip people to pursue and proclaim Jesus in grace and truth. We are a non-denominational, Christ-centered church located in Morton, IL—a thriving, family-friendly community with excellent schools and close proximity to Peoria.

About This Season at New Life

We are in a meaningful and exciting season of ministry, with a growing emphasis on deeper discipleship, relational connection, and a “call up” culture that encourages people to follow Jesus with intentionality and support. Our desire is to love our church family well and empower them to live out the gospel in our community. We’ve seen God move in deeply encouraging ways. Our church has experienced renewed health and momentum, new guests are consistently walking through our doors, and many are finding a genuine sense of belonging—often describing New Life as a place where they can be truly known.

Our staff culture is healthy, collaborative, and deeply supportive. We genuinely enjoy serving together and are committed to helping one another grow in ministry and in life. New Life is becoming an increasingly vibrant place to make an impact.

About the Student Ministry

Our Student Ministry is in a rebuilding and growth season with a strong and engaged group of middle school students (approximately 20) and a developing high school presence. This creates a unique opportunity for a leader who is energized by building, investing relationally, and shaping the future of a ministry with great potential.

Position Summary

The Pastor of Student Ministries will provide vision, leadership, and oversight for all aspects of Student Ministry, ensuring alignment with the mission, vision, and culture of New Life Church. This individual will invest in students, develop leaders, and partner with families to cultivate lifelong disciples of Jesus. This role reports to the Senior Pastor.

Based on gifting, experience, and interest, there may be opportunities to contribute in additional ministry areas such as young adults, outreach, or other strategic initiatives within the church.

Primary Responsibilities

• Cast vision and steward the culture of Student Ministry
• Create and maintain a Jesus-centered, relational, safe, growing, and engaging environment for students
• Recruit, train, develop, and care for a healthy team of volunteers
• Develop and implement a clear discipleship strategy for students and families
• Plan teaching calendars, teach regularly, and equip others to teach effectively
• Partner with and equip parents/guardians to disciple their students
• Set goals and evaluate ministry health and effectiveness
• Oversee administrative aspects of the ministry, including budgeting and communication
• Develop events, gatherings, and outreach opportunities to engage students and families
• Build connections with students and families in the local community
• Contribute to the broader pastoral ministry of the church, including occasional preaching opportunities

Qualifications

• A clear and growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ
• Demonstrates Christlike character, humility, teachability, and emotional intelligence
• Strong relational and leadership skills with the ability to develop others
• Ability to communicate and teach Scripture effectively
• Familiarity with best practices for creating safe ministry environments
• Strong work ethic and the ability to take initiative
• Able to work both independently and collaboratively within a team
• Committed to excellence while fostering growth in others
• Bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant ministry experience strongly preferred