Associate Pastor of Youth and Children

Unity Baptist Church - Vandalia, Illinois Associate Pastor of Youth and Children Overview Unity Baptist Church is seeking a qualified and called individual to serve as Associate Pastor of Youth and Children. This role focuses on the evangelism, discipleship, and spiritual growth of children, youth, and their families, working under the supervision of the Senior Pastor and in partnership with church leadership. Unity Baptist Church Details and Mission Unity Baptist Church is a church with an average attendance of 85 on Sunday morning, 35 children and youth on Wednesday night, and 40 people on Sunday Night. The church has a solid financial picture and is poised to welcome and work alongside a new associate pastor who will strive to serve the Lord and His church. Unity has a good leadership team of 9 encouraging deacons and many dedicated children and youth volunteers. Our senior pastor, Clay Hilton has been in the ministry for 30 years and has planted and pastored churches in Arkansas, Texas and Alberta, Canada and has been with Unity Baptist Church since February of 2026. Unity Baptist Church is a part of a solid local association and a very active state convention. Historic Vandalia is located in South Central Illinois and is 70 minutes from St. Louis, 3.5 hours from Louisville, 3.5 hours from Chicago, 4.25 hours from Nashville, and 4.75 hours from Kansas City. Vandalia has a great school system and vibrant Christian school. The town has many parks, a few shopping centers and restaurants, and is an affordable to live in friendly farming community. Key Responsibilities 1. Ministry & Discipleship Proclaim the Gospel and lead youth and children in outreachMeet weekly with the Pastor for prayer, Bible study, and planningProvide biblical counseling to children, youth, and familiesEncourage growth in prayer and spiritual disciplines2. Teaching Lead or coordinate Sunday School for children and youthLead midweek (Wednesday) Bible studiesDevelop or select biblically sound curriculumTeach the full counsel of God in alignment with church doctrineHelp students identify and use their spiritual gifts3. Relationship Building Build personal relationships with children, youth, and familiesMaintain regular communication (visits, calls, messages, etc.)Engage with students in their daily lives (school, activities, etc.)Pray regularly for students and their families4. Program Leadership Plan at least one children's/youth activity quarterlyOrganize and help lead Vacation Bible School (VBS)Coordinate youth camps and/or mission trips annuallyLead monthly Youth Council meetingsEvaluate ministry effectiveness and implement improvementsExpectations Attend all regular church services and scheduled eventsAttend youth and children's ministry activitiesBe an active, faithful member of Unity Baptist ChurchCarry out the work of an evangelistQualifications Meet biblical qualifications for elders (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9)Affirm and teach in accordance with the BFM 2000Pass a background checkStrong teaching, leadership, and interpersonal skillsBible college or seminary training preferred

Compensation Salary:

$50,000-$60,000 annually (based on experience and qualifications)Vacation and ministry training opportunities providedSubmission Requirements Cover letter and Resume with 3 references Sample teaching (video or lesson notes)Submit materials to: clay@unityvan.com