Director of Next Generation Ministries (Full-Time) – Cambridge, MN

Common Ground is a progressive United Methodist congregation with a heart for serving the community, growing intellectually and spiritually, and welcoming those who don’t fit in elsewhere. Our mission is that we are a Christ centered community living out profound inclusivity, authentic questions, and compassionate justice. Our congregation loves creativity in worship and we’ve had sermon series on everything from Ted Lasso to Wendell Berry to Bluey (upcoming this fall). We have been a reconciling congregation since 2018, and inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community is deeply important to us. This congregation is extremely supportive of all of its staff members and truly is a fun and rewarding environment to work in. We have experienced significant growth in the past several years and are committed to investing in the lives of young people, not in order to use them to fuel further growth but instead to provide opportunities for them to form deep relationships with God and each other. As we are the only progressive church in a 30 mile radius, there is great potential for impact here for someone who is skilled at building new relationships, dreaming new ways of being the church, and mentoring youth and young adults. We’d love to have you as part of our team!

About Us:

Common Ground: A United Methodist Community is a welcoming and progressive church located in the heart of Cambridge, MN. We are a Christ centered community living out profound inclusivity, authentic questions, and compassionate justice. Our community values diversity and aims to create a safe space where everyone is accepted and celebrated. As we continue our mission, we are seeking a relational, passionate, and dedicated individual to serve as our Director of Next Generation Ministries, focusing on the spiritual development of youth and young adults in our community.

Position Summary:

The Director of Next Generation Ministries at Common Ground is a pivotal role responsible for guiding and nurturing the youth and young adults in our community. This position involves developing and implementing programs that encourage spiritual exploration, personal growth, and social engagement among youth and young adults in our congregation and community. We are seeking a candidate who shares our progressive Christian values, possesses a genuine passion for working with young people, and can create inclusive and innovative programs.

Hours and Compensation:

32 hours per week and compensated at a yearly salary of $40,000 – $43,000. Position begins with 3 weeks paid vacation and includes 8 weeks paid parental leave (with an optional 4 additional weeks unpaid), comprehensive paid sick leave, professional development funding, mileage reimbursement, and professional expenses reimbursable account. 

Responsibilities:

• Develop relationships with youth and young adults in our community
• Develop and implement a comprehensive and engaging ministry program for youth and young adults, integrating spiritual, educational, social activities, and service opportunities. 
• Cultivate a safe and supportive environment where young people can explore their faith, ask questions, and build a strong sense of community.
• Lead regular studies, discussion groups, retreats, special events, service projects, and outreach activities tailored to the unique needs and interests of youth and young adults.
• Provide pastoral care and mentorship to youth and young adults, offering guidance and support as they navigate life challenges and spiritual questions.
• Provide welcoming, inviting, and safe space for youth and young adults in our community who identify as LGBTQIA+
• Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers to assist with youth and young adult ministry activities.
• Stay informed about current trends, issues, and challenges faced by youth and young adults, adapting ministry programs accordingly to address these concerns.
• Build relationships with parents and families.
• Establish a presence with local schools, colleges, and community organizations to expand the reach and impact of our ministry programs.
• Actively participate in church leadership meetings, sharing insights and recommendations related to the needs of the youth and young adult community.
• Develop Common Ground as a hub for youth and young adult ministry in our region.
• Collaborate with other CG ministry staff – cross ministry

Qualifications:

• Highly relational individual with energy and enthusiasm for this work.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field 
• Strong understanding of progressive Christian theology and a commitment to social justice and inclusivity.
• Proven experience working with youth and young adults in a ministry or educational setting. Enjoys spending time with youth and young adults.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds. 
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, with a passion for empowering others and fostering a sense of belonging.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and individuals, both within the church community and in external partnerships.
• Creative and innovative mindset, with the ability to develop engaging and relevant ministry programs.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring the smooth planning and execution of events and activities.
• Flexibility and adaptability to respond to the evolving needs of the youth and young adult community.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying informed about best practices in youth and young adult ministry.
• Able to work a flexible schedule and approach the job with stamina and energy.
• Able to work and connect with diverse personality types.
• Inclusive of everyone regardless of religious or spiritual beliefs, particularly those who are not welcomed or included elsewhere.