Pastor of Discipleship​/Associate Pastor

The Pastor of Discipleship/Associate Pastor will share in the general pastoral ministry of First Reformed Church while providing primary leadership in discipling and developing high school students and young adults (approximately ages 18–28).

• A maturing disciple of Jesus Christ with a clear love for the Lord, His Word, and His Church
  .
• A call to serve an established rural congregation in the Reformed tradition
  .
• A theological conviction and practice compatible with the Reformed tradition
  .
• Evident integrity, humility, and teachability
  .
• Committed to prayer, Scripture, and ongoing spiritual growth
  .

• Strong social skills
  .
• Able to function as a highly relational, visible pastor in a rural context
  .
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to “juggle” multiple responsibilities in a growing church.
• Comfortable partnering with a highly relational Lead Pastor and sharing ministry in a way that supports, complements, and extends his pastoral work.

• Demonstrated gifting as a:
• Pastor/Shepherd – loves and cares for God’s people; is present in their lives and “knows the sheep by name.”
• Discipler/Mentor/Coach – invests in spiritual formation and leadership development, especially among youth and young adults.
• Communicator – able to preach biblically faithful, clear sermons and teach effectively in student and young adult contexts.

• Biblical Preaching & Teaching – handles Scripture faithfully and communicates clearly to both adults and younger audiences.
• Pastoral Care – able to provide spiritual support in times of transition.
• Discipleship & Leadership Development – able to identify, invest in, and develop emerging leaders among high school and young adults.
• Teamwork & Collaboration – works well with the Lead Pastor, consistory, staff, and volunteers; open to feedback and shared discernment.
• Communication Skills – able to use tools such as PowerPoint, outlines, and basic technology to support preaching, teaching, and ministry communication.
• Organizational Ability – able to plan, prioritize, and follow through on multiple ministry responsibilities in a growing church setting.

• Ordained or ordainable by the Alliance of Reformed Churches.
• Formal theological training (seminary degree or meaningful progress toward one) is strongly preferred
  .
• Some experience working with youth and/or young adults and some exposure to broader pastoral or church ministry are preferred.

• Provide pastoral oversight and leadership for:
• High school students
  .
• Young adults (approximately 18–28), including college students, early-career adults, and young singles/married couples.
• Disciple, mentor, and coach students and young adults toward mature faith and active participation in the life and mission of the church.
• Develop, equip, and encourage volunteer leaders who serve in high school and young adult ministries.
• Design and/or support gatherings, small groups, studies, and leadership development environments appropriate to these age groups.
• Help integrate students and young adults into:
• Corporate worship
  .
• Service opportunities
  .
• Leadership roles consistent with the church’s polity and practice.
• Maintain a visible, relational presence in key environments such as:
• The West Lyon School District (where appropriate and possible).
• Community activities connected to youth and young adults.

• Preaching & Worship Leadership
• Preach 10–12 times per year
  .
• Assist in leading worship.
• Pastoral Care
• Share in pastoral care of the congregation with the Lead Pastor, including:
• Hospital and home visitation.
• Crisis care.
• Weddings, funerals, baptisms
  , and other…