West Side Presbyterian Church

POSTED 4/8/25

What if an intergenerational, multiethnic congregation measured success by how well they befriended, empowered, and launched leaders of gospel movements? This central question defines the Discipleship Pastor role. The Pastor of Discipleship and Student Ministry understands, embraces and is committed to the mission and vision of West Side. Our incoming Discipleship Pastor will be enthusiastic about the opportunity to cultivate an intergenerational and multiethnic congregation dedicated to befriending, equipping, and launching leaders of gospel movements.

We seek a passionate and energetic person with experience leading youth and young adult ministries that is ready to branch out and engage discipleship across the entire congregation. This role is crucial to equipping individuals of all ages to follow Jesus, create belonging and do justice. West Side especially aims to support believers during significant life transitions that happen between the ages of 12-27, grounding them in the gospel of Jesus Christ. If you have a heart for discipleship, a passion for working with students and their families, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to reaching students and their families beyond the wall of the church then this call may be for you.

 Key priorities include:

·       Enhancing Discipleship Junctions for all ages to grow in following Jesus, creating belonging, and doing justice (the three movements on our discipleship pathway).

·       Prioritizing experiences that foster an intergenerational and multiethnic culture at West Side.

·       Redeveloping a youth and young adult ministry integrated into West Side’s worship and discipleship.

·       Aligning all ministries with the church’s vision and mission.

·       Collaborating with the Lead Pastor to ensure discipleship programs reflect the gospel and strategic vision.

·       Expanding the gospel’s reach through member training in evangelism and developing digital engagement platforms.

·       Supporting and equipping Discipleship staff as their supervisor and colleague.

The Pastor/Director of Discipleship and Student Ministry responsibilities include:

• Discipleship Ministries (Adults & All Ages):

• Develop and implement a comprehensive discipleship strategy that encompasses various avenues for spiritual growth, including small groups, Bible studies, workshops, retreats, and mentoring programs.

• Recruit, train, and support leaders for small groups and other discipleship initiatives.

• Oversee the selection and development of curriculum and resources for discipleship programs.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of discipleship programs and make adjustments as needed.

• Collaborate with other staff members to integrate discipleship into all aspects of church life.

• Provide pastoral care and guidance to individuals seeking spiritual growth.

• Student Ministries (Middle School & High School):

• Develop and implement a dynamic and engaging student ministry program that fosters spiritual growth, community building, and missional outreach.

• Recruit, train, and mentor adult volunteers to serve in student ministries.

• Plan and lead weekly student gatherings, including worship, teaching, small groups, and fellowship activities.

• Organize and lead student retreats, mission trips, and other special events.

• Build relationships with students and their families and provide pastoral care and guidance.

• Partner with parents to support the spiritual development of their students.

• Collaborate with other churches and organizations in the community to reach and serve students.

• Additional Responsibilities:

• Sunday worship and fellowship leadership

• Preaching and worship leadership as invited by the Senior Pastor

• Be a colleague in ministry among your peers and alongside partners in the gospel at other churches in West Seattle

• Energy and enthusiasm for a varied work schedule including periodic late nights, early mornings, or Saturday meetings. Maintain a rhythm of rest and renewal.

• What you bring

  The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Pastor/Director of Discipleship and Student Ministry:

  Education and experience

  • Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree inTheology, Christian Education, or a related field preferred. M.Div is preferred but not required. 

  • 3-5 years of experience leading in a students ministry 

  • Demonstrated experience in leading discipleship strategies at some level in the local church. 

  Knowledge, skills, and abilities

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in discipleship and/or student ministry leadership.

  • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement effective discipleship programs.

  Personal characteristics and qualifications

  • A mature and compelling relationship with Jesus Christ 

  • Personal characteristics that foster the peace, unity, and purity of the church – especially humility, grace, integrity, courage, and humor 

  • Excellent communication skills, both interpersonal and preaching/teaching

  • Demonstrated experience as a relationship builder in intergenerational community, and in diverse socio-economic and cultural contexts

  • Affirmation of the Essential Tenets of the Fellowship of Presbyterians as reliable expositions of the Scriptures in the faith and practice of the church