Director/Associate Pastor of Children, Youth, and Family Ministry at Rye Presbyterian Church

About the Church

Rye Presbyterian Church, a 950-member congregation in Rye, NY (a suburban community of NYC, about 40 minutes to the city by train, located in Westchester County) is embarking on a new and exciting chapter in its life and ministry. A new head of staff co-pastorate is in place, and with many young children and youth already a part of the church, we are looking for the right person to join the staff team to lead these vital areas in our ministry. 

About the Ministry

The children’s and youth ministries at Rye Presbyterian Church have many overlapping offerings in addition to age-specific programs. Many treasured traditions align with holiday celebrations like pumpkin carving, gingerbread houses, tree lighting, and the Easter egg hunt. Children participate in a thriving Sunday school program as well as worship and music, plus whole family volunteer opportunities. In addition to attending worship, youth can be found at middle school connection, high school youth group, Confirmation, the beloved summer mission trip, and various service and fellowship opportunities throughout the year. 

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is engaging, creative, and enthusiastic in their work with children and youth. They exhibit an innovative, positive, authentic, and spiritually mature presence to invest in the younger members of our church. Additionally, they are equally pastoral and organizational in nature in order to provide both spiritual nourishment as well as reliable planning and program management. 

Key Responsibilities

The Director or Associate Pastor will be responsible for stewarding the ministries with children, youth, and their families throughout the life of Rye Pres. Designing, directing, and coordinating programs and activities with the support of dedicated volunteers and in collaboration with the co-pastors will be a key responsibility of the role. This person will develop relationships with children and youth, as well as facilitate an environment for them to foster relationships with one another. The role closely collaborates with the Christian Education Committee and is deeply supported by the co-pastors on a majority of programmatic aspects referenced below.

This position is open to lay or ordained candidates. Ordained individuals would contribute periodic preaching and participation in the sacraments, as well as the possibility for additional elements of pastoral care as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree in theology or other relevant field preferred

• Previous experience working with young people required, within a church setting preferred

• Understanding of the PC(USA) Reformed tradition, experience is preferred but willingness to learn and abide by the core theological principles is workable for the right applicant

• Passion for connecting young people to faith communities and supporting whole families on their faith journey

• Live and model a vibrant, curious, and growing Christian faith, grounded in the Reformed tradition

• Recognize the dignity and equality of all people

• Strong organizational and communication skills, emotional intelligence, work ethic, long-term vision, and a sense of humor are essential 

About the Community

Rye, NY is a suburban community of NYC, about 40 minutes to the city by train,located in Westchester County. Situated directly on Long Island Sound, it is known for its high quality of life, top-rated schools, and historic charm. The local housing provided to this new staff member is adjacent to Rye Town Park, so you can be beach walking in one minute. Rye features a vibrant downtown, sandy beaches, and the iconic Playland Amusement Park.