Student Pastor

TITLE: Student Pastor (Full Time)

PURPOSE: To lead a dynamic, Christ-centered ministry that helps students know Jesus, grow in faith, and live out the gospel in their everyday lives.

OVERVIEW: This role exists to shepherd the next generation at Rising Hills Church with vision, authenticity, and relational presence. The Student Pastor will disciple middle and high school students, invest in volunteer leaders, and partner with families to cultivate a thriving student ministry. This position requires gospel-centered leadership, strong communication skills, and a passion for seeing young people rooted in God’s Word and engaged in the life of the local church.

REPORTS TO: Rising Pastor

RESPONSIBILITIES:

▸ Shepherd students with relational discipleship…

• Build authentic relationships with students that create trust, belonging, and spiritual growth.
• Create space for students to encounter Jesus through worship, Scripture, prayer, and community.
• Be available for spiritual counsel, mentoring, and pastoral care—especially during pivotal seasons of life.
• Foster a ministry culture where students feel seen, known, and called into Christ-centered living.

▸ Lead weekly gatherings and teaching environments…

• Design and lead weekly student ministry gatherings that are engaging, biblically grounded, and relevant (Midweek, small groups, Forge, Pillars, etc.).
• Teach Scripture in ways that are clear, Christ-exalting, and aligned with the church’s teaching philosophy.
• Utilize worship, small groups, prayer, games, and teaching to create meaningful student experiences.
• Plan and lead special events, retreats, and camps that deepen discipleship and community.

▸ Build teams and develop leaders…

• Recruit, train, and invest in a volunteer team of adult and student leaders.
• Empower others to disciple students, lead small groups, and serve in their unique gifting.

• Foster a team culture of prayer, excellence, humility, and joy in ministry. 
• Equip leaders to model the gospel through their lives and relationships with students.

▸ Partner with parents and families…

• Encourage and equip parents as the primary disciple makers of their students.
• Maintain consistent and clear communication about what students are learning, upcoming events and how parents can engage at home.
• Offer occasional resources, events, or gatherings to strengthen families in faith and connection.
• Be available to offer shepherding support to families in key life seasons.
• Provide pastoral support to families during times of transition, struggle, or spiritual need.

▸ Lead with vision and creativity…

• Cast clear, compelling vision for student ministry that aligns with the mission of Rising Hills Church.
• Adapt ministry methods to remain culturally aware and spiritually grounded.
• Use creative tools (media, social platforms, outreach events) to reach students where they are.
• Be a voice in staff discussions around church wide discipleship and the next generation.

EXPECTATIONS:

• Maintain a growing and vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ, modeling spiritual disciplines and integrity.
• Live according to the qualifications of a pastor as laid out in1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.
• Participate in weekly staff meetings, planning retreats, and prayer  gatherings. Maintain a visible presence at weekly church gatherings and experiences.
• Serve as a team player—supporting, celebrating, and collaborating with other pastors and leaders.
• Invest in the spiritual and emotional health of the church through presence, prayer, and pastoral care.
• Honor the vision, values, and leadership of Rising Hills Church while contributing to a culture of unity and encouragement.
• Be available and willing to step into pastoral roles as needed—including weddings, funerals, crisis support, spiritual counsel, teachings, etc.