Next Gen Pastor

Job Description

Job Description

The River Church is looking for a Next Gen & Family Ministry Director who is a visionary leader and systems thinker with a passion for discipling children, students, and the families who raise them. This role provides strategic oversight for all Next Gen ministries from birth through 12th grade, building cohesive discipleship pathways and equipping parents as the primary spiritual leaders in their homes. The ideal candidate is as comfortable developing volunteer teams and leadership pipelines as they are connecting relationally with kids, teenagers, and parents. If you’re ready to help shape the next generation of disciples in a vibrant, grace-centered community, The River wants to hear from you.

About This Organization

Founded in 2004 with just 61 people and a call to reach far-from-Christ and hurting people, The River Church has grown into a thriving community now worshipping in a renovated warehouse in the Rivers Edge District of downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan. The River exists as a place of authentic community where people can belong — celebrating together, grieving together, and growing together toward Jesus. With 400-450 regular attenders, the church is known for its casual, welcoming culture, strong biblical teaching, and the conviction that brokenness is not a barrier to belonging. The River is affiliated with The Kingdom Network and is positioned for meaningful growth in its Next Gen ministry in the years ahead.

Position Description

Key Responsibilities:

• Cast vision and provide leadership for all Next Gen ministries, including RiverKids (birth–5th grade) and River Students (6th–12th grade)
• Design and implement a clear, scalable discipleship pathway from nursery through high school graduation
• Oversee Sunday morning environments for children, ensuring safe, engaging, and spiritually rich experiences
• Assess and develop a sustainable student ministry model that integrates teens into the broader life of the church
• Recruit, train, and develop volunteers across all Next Gen ministries, building a healthy leadership pipeline
• Partner with parents through resources, events, and communication strategies that strengthen family discipleship at home
• Supervise existing ministry leaders, including the Nursery Coordinator, and collaborate closely with church staff and elders
• Plan and execute ministry events that foster connection and spiritual growth among families and students

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