The search for a new youth ministry call begins with a season of self-reflection. It takes prayer, time, and perspective to be able to see the present clearly and discern God’s way forward.
Soul Searching:
Why make a change now?
How has God worked in this ministry and in me?
What skills have I learned?
What would I do differently next time?
Who needs my forgiveness, and of whom do I need to ask forgiveness before I move on?
What loose ends should be tied up in order to end this call well?
Self Presentation:
Does my resume accurately reflect my gifts and skills?
Have I chosen effective and discreet references? (References should be able to discuss achievements and approach to youth ministry. If current colleagues are unavailable, other references might include parents, youth alumni, or denominational officials.)
Am I also being discreet while searching for a new position?
What do I bring to (and want from) potential colleague relationships?
The Church’s Information Forms:
What is compelling in the church self-description?
Why is the position description intriguing?
Is there information available about the youth ministry budget?
How is the youth ministry presented on the church Web site?
Are there traditions of mission trips, summer camps?
Are there volunteer leaders?
What’s the compensation package? Would I be able afford living close by?
Who would be supervising my work? (This is a primary relationship for youth pastors, a good supervisory relationship is vital for a healthy and lengthy youth pastorate.)
After reading the church materials, what does my spouse/mentor/trusted colleague(s) think?
Sample Interview Questions:
What are the strengths of youth ministry here? What are the challenges?
How are the youth engaged in congregational life?
Are Sunday school classes offered for youth?
Where have youth traveled; what have been the best trips; and why?
How many schools do youth attend? Do the schools welcome visitors?
Where do the funds come from for youth program activities?
Are there fundraising expectations?
Is there office space for this position? Is there administrative support?
What would it look like if I were successful in this position? (This question gets at the heart of the congregation’s hopes and dreams.)
Post Interview: It’s a call, but is it mine?
Am I committing this search to regular prayer, and do I have a community of faith keeping me in prayer as I discern?
Is there congruence between the church’s vision for youth ministry and my own?
How do my gifts match the expressed need?
Does the church honor the essential task of relationship building with youth and leadership?
Did I learn enough about my potential supervisor? Is she/he someone for/with whom I can serve? Is there a shared vision for youth ministry?
Were any names of prior church staff/employees provided for reference checks?
Is this a place I could stay for an entire cycle (4-6 years)?
What are my concerns? How will I take the extra step and explore those concerns?
Is this my call, or am I still searching?
