Youth pastors typically find work in local churches and may work in tandem with local youth organizations. A youth pastor provides youth of all ages and young adults with spiritual guidance and biblical teachings. Other job responsibilities of the youth pastor include establishing and directing youth services and activities for the church as well as conducting outreach events in the community.
Youth pastors often have a background related to fostering youth or teaching biblical standards. This can be achieved through obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree in education, theology, biblical studies, or childhood development. In addition, the youth pastor understands how to teach children of all ages about the Bible and should be an expert in the various teachings found within the Bible. Youth pastors should have excellent communication skills, be comfortable speaking in front of crowds, and develop relationships in the community.
Local churches and community organizations hire youth pastors for various reasons. Youth pastors help spread the word of the church and help mentor children to follow biblical teachings. This includes mentoring youth of all ages on areas related to developing a sense of community and living by the credos established in biblical teachings. In roles related to working with community groups, youth pastors may help youth deal with various problems and help keep them on track towards becoming a good and productive member of society.
The most important responsibility of the youth pastor is to provide spiritual guidance to youth and young adults. This can be important in times of struggle and when adolescents are faced with important decisions regarding various lifestyle choices. Youth pastors must be open to handling a diverse group of individuals and be able to make a connection with all youth they counsel.
In various churches and parishes, the youth pastor is often tasked with running the youth ministry program. This includes all aspects related to curriculum development, sponsoring events, fundraising, and working within a budget. The position requires excellent organizational skills to be able to handle both their own responsibilities and others assigned to them by the lead pastor of the church or parish.
Youth pastors will normally work varying hours as needed by the church or parish. This can include weekends and evening hours to provide services for the youth and young adults at times convenient to them. Additional hours may be necessary to assist parish leaders with special events and outreach programs.