Youth and Young Adult Minister Job Description

Primary Purpose

To lead and develop a comprehensive and dynamic ministry that fosters the spiritual growth, Christian discipleship, outreach, and holistic development of youth (grades 6–12), teens (up to age 19), college students (both local and out-of-state), and young adults (ages 18–35). The ministry should be culturally relevant, spiritually grounded, and responsive to the evolving needs of young people and emerging adults in their faith journey.

Key Responsibilities

Spiritual Leadership & Teaching

• Provide regular biblical teaching and spiritual guidance for youth, teens, college students, and young adults.
• Offer support and spiritual care to parents, guardians, and young adults navigating life transitions.
• Cultivate a culture of worship, discipleship, and service among young people and emerging adults.
• Be available for home and hospital visitation as appropriate.

Program Development & Oversight

• Design and implement age-appropriate programs that reflect the mission of the church and encourage growth in Christ, including Bible studies, small groups, career and life transition support, and outreach initiatives.
• Plan, lead, and participate in youth and young adult worship services and special events.
• Support church-wide activities that engage youth and young adults.
• Promote consistent participation among youth and young adults in ministry offerings.

Volunteer Management & Leadership Development

• Recruit, train, support, and mentor lay volunteers and ministry leaders from both peer and adult populations.
• Provide resources, encouragement, and spiritual accountability to adult, young adult, and student leaders.
• Establish systems for volunteer engagement, safety, and sustainability.

Event Planning & Engagement

• Organize and lead retreats, mission trips, conferences, camps, and other special programs that align with the ministry's spiritual objectives and address the unique needs of youth and young adults.
• Encourage fellowship and community-building among youth, young adults, and their families.

Community & Life Transition Support

• Build healthy, trusting relationships with families and young adults to strengthen their role in faith development and life transitions.
• Serve as a liaison between the church and community institutions (e.g., schools, colleges, universities, employers, and young adult organizations).
• Provide mentorship and guidance for young adults navigating career decisions, relationships, and independent living.

Administration & Collaboration

• Attend staff meetings and work collaboratively with pastoral, ministerial, and administrative staff to align youth and young adult ministry with the broader mission of the church.
• Manage and steward the youth and young adult ministry budget responsibly.
• Evaluate all curricula, programs, and materials for theological soundness and cultural relevance.
• Stay current with trends and resources in youth and young adult ministry to serve as an advisor to church leadership.

Qualifications

• A committed, Spirit-filled Christian, licensed or ordained to the Gospel ministry.
• Demonstrates a mature faith in Jesus Christ and a strong understanding of Scripture.
• Alignment with the vision and mission of The Abyssinian Baptist Church under the leadership of the Pastor.
• Proven experience in youth, college, or young adult ministry—either in a professional or significant lay capacity.
• A bachelor's degree is required; enrollment in or completion of a seminary program at an institution accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and leadership skills with the ability to engage young people, young adults, and families.
• Passionate about evangelism, discipleship, and the holistic development of youth and young adults.
• Understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by young adults in contemporary society.