Small Groups and Older Adult Ministry Coordinator - Athens First UMC

8/14/2026

Position Summary:

The Small Groups and Older Adult Ministry Coordinator provides leadership and strategic oversight for adult small group ministries at Athens First United Methodist Church, with additional attention on cultivating vibrant small group communities and meaningful engagement for older adults. This role ensures that pathways for connection, spiritual growth, and care are accessible and theologically grounded in the United Methodist tradition. Through equipping leaders and building systems for sustainable growth, this position helps foster a culture where every person is known, supported, and growing in faith.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; theological training or equivalent ministry experience highly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in discipleship, small group ministry, or adult formation.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and relational skills.
• Proven ability to recruit, equip, and empower volunteers and lay leaders.
• Familiarity with United Methodist theology and a commitment to Wesleyan discipleship.
• Ability to collaborate across multiple ministry teams and adapt in a fast-paced environment
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with church management systems (e.g., Realm or similar)
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith and alignment with the mission and values of Athens First United Methodist Church

Key Responsibilities:

Small Groups & Adult Discipleship

• Provide leadership, development, and oversight for all adult small groups, including Sunday School classes, Bible studies, and short-term studies.
• Cultivate a robust and diverse small group ecosystem that meets people at various stages of faith and life.
• Recruit, train, and support Sunday school teachers and small group leaders, equipping laity to lead with confidence and theological soundness.
• In collaboration with the Assistant Director of Discipleship and Hospitality, develop and sustain clear pathways for new members and visitors to connect into groups.
• Regularly evaluate and strengthen the effectiveness, health, and growth of groups.

Older Adult Ministries (55+)

• Lead and expand ministry offerings for older adults, including a monthly older adult ministry and other connectional opportunities.
• Create meaningful environments for fellowship, spiritual formation, service, and pastoral connection for this demographic.
• Explore and implement new initiatives that address the evolving needs and interests of older adults in the congregation.
• Partner with the Congregational Care team to ensure strong systems of care and connection for older adults.
• Provide vision, structure, and support for neighborhood-based groups as a key strategy for connection and discipleship.
• Identify, recruit, and equip neighborhood leaders to foster relational, geographically-based community.
• Strengthen alignment between neighborhood groups and the broader discipleship strategy of the church.

Curriculum & Theological Leadership

• In collaboration with the Minister of Congregational Care, select and develop curriculum rooted in United Methodist theology. Support small group leaders in selecting, understanding and faithfully teaching the studies throughout our church.
• Ensure all teaching resources reflect theological depth, accessibility, and practical application for everyday faith.
• Work collaboratively with clergy, staff, and ministry leaders to align small groups and older adult ministries with the overall mission and vision of the church.
• Maintain strong communication with the Discipleship and Congregational Care teams regarding needs and opportunities for connection.