About the Church

 Since 1964, Messiah UMC has been a vital part of Fairfax County, Virginia, and continues to serve as a place of hope and healing for its community. With a deep commitment to outreach, the congregation is active both within and outside of the walls of the church. Their blended worship services each Sunday encourage the diverse community to follow Jesus in new ways.

About the Ministry

 This position will oversee both middle and high school programming. Sunday school, weekly youth gatherings, and spring/summer mission trips are all a part of the current ministry. Beginning in the fall of 2025 a confirmation program will be a highlight of the program year. Equipping and growing the team of current volunteers and youth council members to increase involvement will be critical to the position. 

The Ideal Candidate

 The ideal candidate for this position brings 3-5 years of youth ministry experience and is passionate about reaching out and connecting with youth and their families. As a self-starter, this leader will be able to build and create a long lasting and sustainable ministry that supports young people as they navigate the middle and high school experience.  

Key Responsibilities

- Develop relationships with youth where authenticity and confidentiality are valued and encouraged.

- Encourage youth to take the next natural step in their journey of Christian discipleship, including involvement in worship, leadership, and educational opportunities.

- Develop a student ministry with continuity in mind from 7th – 12th grades, to provide a solid framework for life-long discipleship as a Christian.

- Recruit, train, and support adult volunteers to disciple and provide spiritual care and programming for youth.

- Plan and implement mission opportunities, including Spring Break and summer mission trips. 

Qualifications

- Bachelor’s Degree

- Experience in working with youth and executing successful youth events Christian Ministry, Education, Counseling, or similarly related field preferred

- Demonstrate experience and relational skills with middle school and high school youth

- Relational and leadership skills for working with volunteers and being part of a team ministry

- Willingness for understanding of and commitment to United Methodist doctrine 

About the Community

Springfield, Virginia offers a suburban community within close proximity to the amenities of the urban DC area. With great schools, parks, and recreation it provides a sense of immediate community. If seeking a quick getaway, its proximity to either the mountains or the coast provides great opportunities for rest and renewal.