Director of Faith Formation and Community Life

Acton Congregational Church (ACC) is an Open and Affirming United Church of Christ congregation in the heart of Acton, MA. We believe that the whole congregation is called to be family for one another across every generation; we are seeking someone who shares and can animate that vision. This individual understands that intergenerational ministry is the work of the whole congregation, not simply a program for children and youth. We envision this as a role with two main components: 1) to support and build on our commitment to intergenerational worship and mission-driven ministry; and 2) to build community inside and outside of ACC by creating opportunities for engagement.

You Are

• • A strong, outgoing, confident communicator who can generate excitement for new approaches to intergenerational and mission-oriented ministry.
  • A creative, positive-minded self-starter with education or experience in Christian Education, Youth Ministry, or a related field.
  • Collaborative, organized, and reliable—able to juggle a mix of responsibilities, from planning events to engaging with youth to participating in Sunday worship.
  • An individual who loves working with people and can relate to them with warmth, energy, and integrity.
  • Comfortable with basic tech and social media.

What You’ll Do

• • Foster intergenerational relationships, in collaboration with, and under the supervision of, the senior minister and lay leaders. Recruit, train, and encourage lay leaders in this work.
  • Cultivate a safe, “third place” for youth to explore life and faith through fellowship, service and honest conversation. Lead a fun, welcoming, faith-centered senior high program (grades 9–12) and support a junior high/confirmation program (grades 7–8) This will include overnight retreats and mission trips.
  • Reimagine quarterly, community-oriented programs and events, such as a Vacation Bible School and Open House Fall kickoff program, that bring the town into the church. As the demographics of the church change, you may be called upon to develop a Sunday School program.
  • Create a “Moment for all Ages” for Sunday worship or coordinate the lay presentation of this part of worship; be a visible, caring presence on Sunday mornings.
  • Develop and implement a welcoming pathway for visitors to the church that extends beyond Sunday morning to create a sense of belonging to our community.
  • Be part of an ACC presence at community events, e.g. Pride Day at NARA Park.
  • Embody and champion a mental health-informed culture and ministry as the congregation discerns if it should pursue a WISE designation, acknowledging the unique demands of Acton as a community with intense academic pressures and need for parental support.

• • Communicate regularly with families and youth (email, Constant Contact, website, social media). Provide a monthly report on activities and attend Deacon and Church Council meetings as appropriate. Produce a report and presentation for Annual Meeting.
  • Report to and collaborate with a supervising Senior Minister; attend weekly staff meeting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, ministry, social work, community development, or related field
• 3–5 years of experience in youth ministry and/or community organizing
• Proven interest in and ability to build systems and train lay leaders
• Passionate about intergenerational ministry
• Commitment to progressive Christian values and UCC principles
• Self-starter who can work independently and collaboratively

Hours and Benefits

This role represents a growth opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization and to invest in and be part of a church community over the long term while developing personally and professionally.

The position will follow a seasonal model, with a consistent monthly salary scoped at an average of 35 hours/week: 40 hours/week from September through June and 10/hours week in July and August. Eligible for 64 hours (2 weeks) paid vacation, paid holidays including the week between Christmas and New Year, and stipend for professional development.

Total compensation: $65,000 plus coverage for health, dental, and life insurance.

www.actonc.org

Please submit a resume and cover letter.

Eligible for 64 hours (2 weeks) paid vacation, paid holidays including the week between Christmas and New Year, and stipend for professional development. Coverage for health, dental, and life insurance.