Last fall I was playing around a bit with the idea of going back into full time youth ministry. Some of you even remember me blogging about my interview with the church in Des Moines, IA.
My wife and I are 100% ready to get back into this again and so this week I will be putting my resume on the internet and begin seeking out positions. We hope to be transitioned some time this summer.
What am I looking for in a church? I think it’s good to know because we want to be in a church that has mutual love and respect for each other. We know that there is no such thing as a perfect church, but here are some characteristics of what we would prefer:
- Church size 300 – 500
- Church who takes youth ministry/family ministry seriously
- Non-Denominational (I have worked in a baptist church before too and will consider some denominations)
- Salary range 40-45k + (based on experience take a look at the pay scale chart)
- Medium Size town or suburb
I would ask that you keep your eyes open and if you so feel that there might be something just contact me and let me know. I will keep you posted as well.
Here are some documents that will help you get to know me and what I believe:
Doctrinal Statement of Beliefs
Philosophy of Student Ministry
What I enjoy:
- Basketball
- Playing Guitar
- Blogging (ha)
- Fun with friends and family
- Serving the Lord
I have been in youth ministry 9 years in June. I have served in a full time capacity in 3 churches.
Here’s a pic of my family:
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We are Moving to Poteau, Oklahoma! I will be an Associate Pastor (mostly youth)!
Hoping it goes well. The boys and I have been praying for you at nights! I’m sure Emily is too. Heard anything yet?
Just visited a church in Poteau, OK and it looks like it may work out. I’ll keep you posted.
Still seeking the right fit.
Just sent resume to couple more places.
Hey Steve, Are you still looking for a full-time youth position. I found your website a couple of months ago. (I was filing in at the Jr High weeknight youth group and I was looking for Jr. High games. I saved your website and our current Youth Pastor is a Reserve Chaplin in the Army is being activated for at least a year. He has decided that he will not return as he only has a few years left to max out his govt retirement.
Calvary Crossroads is located in Southern Oregon. (55 miles north of the California border. We are 4 hours from Porltand, 6 hours from San Francisco…Medford, OR is the closest airport. (United, Delta, Alaska and US Air) Grants Pass population 35,000+ or -
Darth – Let’s look at this way. 40k is really about 34k after taxes. Even though I have had 3 full time experiences in churches – I really have about 10 years experience because I still do youth ministry while not employed at a church. I have a family of 5 now too which some YP’s start out with just their self or their self and a spouse.
I did a survey in which case I got the results from and one of the top concerns of a youth pastor is that they don’t get paid very well.
I’d rather be forth right in stating what I need and for the churches that can’t or don’t want to pay that sort of salary then they probably won’t be talking with me – which in the end makes it easier.
Salary seems kind of high to me, especially since you have jumped around a lot of different churches and have gone in and out of Youth Ministry. As someone who is currently part of a Youth Ministry Search team, that would be a red flag…but hopefully everything works out for you.
Just updating you that I’m in process with a para church in Iowa and Church Plant in Pennsylvania. I will continue to keep you posted of any outcomes.
Rob – Probably the church size thing isn’t really that important but usually that size does support the salary, but there are always exceptions so I’m not rigid.
Steve,
I understand the needs of the “pay package” especially with a family, but the size of the congregation? Why would that important? What if God called you to serve at a smaller congregation?
Rob
Rob,
Not really. I think it’s good to communicate some direction and desire. If there is a church that doesn’t meet these specifications that’s ok it’s just a measuring stick to see if the church is within range.
I know what our needs are and so being upfront with them I feel is the best way. Any church is still free to chat about it.
Steve,
Awesome website! Very interesting stuff! The one thing that really intrigued me however was the fact that you placed on your “resume posting” that you were looking for a church with 300-500 and you listed your pay package…do you think that comes across as a bit arrogant? maybe a bit superficial? Just curious…
Rob
seriously who wouldn’t hire your family?
Submitted my resume to Youth Specialties today. I will update everyone via commenting about my progress. Appreciate Your prayers.