Director of Childrens Ministries Position Available In Polk, Florida

Director of Children’s Ministries First United Methodist Church of Lakeland, Florida 72 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801 Overview The Director of Children’s Ministries oversees the Church’s ministry to children, nursery through fifth grade. This includes oversight for curriculum, worship, operations, goals, staffing and administration of the children’s program. Ministerial Responsibilities, including, but not limited to: Develops and implements a coordinated master plan for children’s ministry with measurable and attainable goals that accomplish the following purposes: Creates settings where children can connect with God, including but not limited to Sunday morning programming, Wednesday evening programming, monthly family events or opportunities, missions, discipleship, Bible studies, small groups, annual VBS, seasonal events and special activities. Shall plan, coordinate, staff, and supervise all activities and events endorsed by the Children’s Council and approved by the Pastoral staff. Every effort should be made to engage parents and the congregation in the ongoing ministry and programming Develops opportunities and encourages involvement of children in worship, Sunday school and intergenerational activities Reaches, receives and maintains children in the faith community. This would include developing strategies to reach those children not currently involved in the children’s ministry Plans and coordinates with the GROW ministry team Works with other staff persons to enhance the overall program and mission of the church In coordination with the Children’s Council, shall propose and plan additional ministries to further our children’s spiritual growth Promotes and coordinates participation in Florida Conference events, such as Warren Willis summer camp, family retreats and other ministry experiences In coordination with the pastors, contacts children and/or families following new births, adoptions, or major illnesses/injuries of children to provide support and encouragement for families Recruits and trains children’s ministries volunteers (including, but not limited to Sunday School teachers, special ministries/activities coordinators) Oversees the nursery ministry and all related duties in coordination with the Assoc. Director Reviews and recommends theologically appropriate curriculum and literature for use in children’s ministries Oversees and enforces the guidelines of the Child and Youth Protection Policy of First UMC Lakeland. Coordinates room and equipment needs with the Director of Preschool Ministries, if needed Develops and maintains accurate student rosters and attendance for each age level Prepares and manages the Children’s Ministries budget, providing regular financial reports to the Children’s Council Monitors and provides supplies and equipment for use throughout Children’s Ministries. Submits the appropriate administrative forms that are needed in preparation for events, time away, calendar requests, etc. Schedules and participates in meetings of the Children’s Council Attends and participates in general, program and director staff meetings; GROW Ministry Area; Church Council meetings; and other meetings as required Participates in District, Conference and National Children’s Ministries conferences and conventions as approved by Senior Pastor Other duties as assigned by the Senior Pastor and/or the Associate Pastors . General Qualifications The Director of Children’s Ministries shall be grounded in basic Christian doctrine, having and professing faith in Jesus Christ; agree to uphold the Staff Social Covenant and Church Personnel Policies; be familiar and in consonance with Wesleyan theology and United Methodist Church polity and practice; have a thorough understanding of ministry with children and shall demonstrate managerial skills necessary to oversee the staff, volunteers and program of the Children’s Ministry at First UMC of Lakeland; be committed to and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth; and be willing and able to work with other staff/areas of the ministry of this church in a collegial manner.

Education/Training:

Bachelor’s Degree in education preferred; minimum of five years experience directing a children’s program in a local church; professing and practicing person of the Christian faith.

Skills:

Excellent oral and written communication, information management, record keeping skills, strong planning, organizational and problem solving skills; creative and nurturing leadership required. Computer proficiency in Microsoft software such as MS Word is essential. Comfortable using social media as a communication and outreach tool for the Children’s Ministry. Must have understanding of the psychological, emotional, social and spiritual development of children nursery through fifth grade; skilled in basic counseling to help children and their families with questions and concerns.

Work Experience:

Experienced in ministering to children in a large church setting is essential. Experience and proficiency in staff oversight and leadership is required as is experience and proficiency in supervising, organizing large groups of children and adult volunteers. This position requires a demonstrated track record of management/supervision of employees in a professional work setting. Related work experience is vital and given special consideration.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$50,000.00 – $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance

Education:

Bachelor’s (Required)

Experience:

Passion for working with children: 5 years (Required) Ability to

Commute:

Lakeland, FL 33801 (Preferred) Ability to

Relocate:

Lakeland, FL 33801: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person