Bi-Vocational Associate Pastor at East Lake Road C&MA

U.S. Church Ministries•Erie, PA

18d

About The Position

The Bi-vocational Associate Pastor provides pastoral leadership and spiritual formation for children, youth, and their families. The role emphasizes disciplemaking, relational ministry, and volunteer development rather than program-driven activity. The Associate Pastor partners with parents, volunteers, and church leadership to nurture Christ-centered faith in the next generation. This part-time position is approximately 20–25 hours per week, negotiable, and is designed to be balanced with outside employment. The schedule includes Sundays, one to two evenings per week, and occasional weekends or retreats. The position requires licensing with The Christian & Missionary Alliance. Formal theological education is helpful but not required.

Requirements

An evident and growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
Character marked by humility, integrity, emotional maturity, and teachability.
Experience working with youth and/or children.
Strong relational and communication skills.
Ability to develop leaders rather than do all ministry alone.
Agreement with the church’s statement of faith and mission.
Ordained or in the process of becoming ordained in the C&MA.
Ability to balance ministry responsibilities alongside outside employment.
Clear communication regarding availability and scheduling.
Commitment to healthy boundaries and sustainable ministry.
Licensing with The Christian & Missionary Alliance is required.

Nice To Haves

Formal theological education is helpful but not required.

Responsibilities

Teach Scripture to children and youth in age-appropriate, engaging ways, in partnership with current volunteers.
Lead or coordinate regular youth and children’s ministry gatherings.
Cultivate environments that encourage students to follow Jesus, grow in faith, and belong in Christian community.
Identify and mentor emerging young leaders.
Recruit, train, and support volunteers for youth and children’s ministries.
Equip volunteers with vision, resources, and pastoral care.
Build healthy ministry teams marked by encouragement and shared responsibility.
Partner with parents as primary spiritual influencers and communicate clearly and consistently with families.
Provide pastoral presence for students and families as appropriate.
Plan ministry rhythms, events, retreats, and service opportunities.
Implement biblically faithful and developmentally appropriate curriculum.
Ensure safe ministry practices and child protection policies.
Manage assigned budgets responsibly.
Participate in staff meetings and ministry planning.
Support worship services as needed through prayer, Scripture, announcements, or preaching as gifted.
Encourage youth and children to participate in the broader life of the church.
Perform other assigned duties as needed and/or as aligned with the pastor’s passions.