THE PARISH YOUTH MINISTRY COORDINATOR

In the light of the goals and objectives outlined above, the following is offered as guidelines for seeking a person to fulfill the position of Youth Ministry Coordinator in a parish. These, of course, are the ideals to strive for. Each parish must take into consideration their own individual situation, the needs of the parish and the needs of the youth.

The following are presented based on the belief that Youth Ministry is a vital and integral part of the Church’s ministry to young people today. If Youth Ministry is to make a difference in the parish community it must be taken seriously and efforts spiritually, emotionally and financially must be put forth by the total parish community. In all reality there is no such thing as part-time youth ministry.

1) Qualities of a Youth Minister

a) Is able to relate to young people today.

b) Is in touch with and concerned about young people.

c) Displays a positive self-image.

d) Is in touch with their own personal faith development and spirituality.

e) Is willing to continue education for personal and professional growth in areas related to youth ministry.

f) Is flexible in working hours and in adaptability to situations.

2) Qualifications of a Youth Minister

a) Has knowledge of concepts of youth ministry.

b) Displays competence in program planning and organization.

c) Has knowledge in the areas of theology and church.

d) Has an understanding of or experience in leadership role and fields related to youth ministry.

e) Recommended that one have an understanding of adolescent psychology and faith development, as well as, skills in counseling.

3) Job Responsibilities

a) Implement and coordinate a program, which will meet the spiritual, social, service, educational and psychological needs of the youth of the parish throughout the year.

b) Cooperate and work with all parish staff.

c) Work with and facilitate youth programs with other parish and community organizations.

d) Recruits, train, implement and support adult volunteers to work with the youth ministry program.

e) Act as an advocate for youth.

f) Act as a liaison between parish and diocesan offices and the parishes in the respective deaneries.

g) Keep lines of communication open with the pastor, staff and parish community.

4) Accountability

The person to whom the parish youth minister will be accountable to should be determined by the existing parish structure in relation to the pastor, parish council, parish staff, and the parish mission statement. Expectations of time commitment on the part of the youth minister and who this person is ultimately responsible to must be addressed and decided upon before hiring someone to fulfill this position.

5) Budget

A sufficient allotment in the parish budget is essential to an effective youth ministry program. Things to consider when projecting a budget include the following:

a) Youth minister’s salary (suggested salary scale separate sheet).

b) Resource materials; speakers, multi-media equipment and materials, books, periodicals, service and spiritual activity expenses, etc.

6) Benefits

a) Medical and dental insurance coverage.

b) Number of vacation and holidays to be decided and agreed upon by the pastor and the potential youth minister

c) Cost of living raise yearly.

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