The United Methodist Church of New Canaan seeks a creative and energetic individual with a proven track record in Christian Education for Director of Children and Youth Ministries (DCYM). The DCYM will support the growth of the church and encourage our young members to grow in their faith by leading a spiritually enriching study program for its children and youth including the Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF) for Junior and Senior High students. The DCYM works closely with the Pastor, Education Committee and Youth Committee. It is a full-time position with benefits and housing available.

Church School Responsibilities:
To plan and administer the church school program for ages crib room through grade twelve, including enrollment, staffing, facility management, record keeping, supplies, and schedules.
* Plan and administer the summer church school program.

* To select, evaluate and order curriculum with awareness of age, skill, and theological appropriateness.

* To administer the Christian Ed. budget for childcare and church school and the UMYF budget for Jr. and Sr. high Youth activities.

* To be visible and available Sunday mornings before and during church time to assist any new children or parents with questions and to troubleshoot for the Sunday school teachers. To occasionally help in the 7th-8th grade and 9th-12th grade church school class. To lead weekly Time for Children Chat during Sunday Service.

* To communicate regularly with the teachers, staff, parents, committees and community at large. Plan publicity for events, monthly articles for the Spire magazine, church bulletin announcements, New Canaan Advertiser articles (in coordination with the communications committee).

* To plan, coordinate and lead children’s events/activities such as, Rally Day, the Advent Workshop, Christmas Pageant, Sunday School Recognition/Promotion Day, Sunday School Celebration, etc.

* To assist the Pastor with 3rd grade First Communion and eighth grade Confirmation.

* Work with a children’s mission coordinator to select and promote the mission programs that the children and youth will support throughout the year.

* To organize and promote Vacation Bible Camp which has been historically co-lead with the Congregational church.

Youth Ministry Responsibilities:
* Lead two United Methodist Youth Fellowship groups, one for grades 6-8 (Jr. UMYF), and one for grades 9-12 (Sr. UMYF). Groups to meet at least 2-3 times a month.

* Design programs for each grade level that combines elements of fellowship, spiritual nurture, service and outreach.

* Communicate planned activities to the youth, parents, and congregation via newsletters, email, telephone and other tools.

* Help involve the youth in the life of the congregation, worship, service, educational opportunities and district activities.

* Organize annual events including Rally Day, Thanksgiving Fundra