Director of Family Ministries
Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church – Maplewood, NJ
A diverse, inclusive community of faith expressing itself through love.
Morrow Memorial UMC is seeking a visionary, relational, and creative leader to join our staff as the Director of Family Ministries. We are a congregation that believes in growing in faith, finding community, and being of service. If you are passionate about helping children and youth navigate their faith in a progressive, justice-oriented environment, we invite you to help us write the next chapter of our story.
About the Church
Located in the heart of Maplewood, New Jersey, Morrow Church is more than just a place of worship—it is a hub for social justice and community belonging. We are known for our "Open Doors," our commitment to loving our immigrant neighbors, and our legendary Annual Turnover Sale, which has served the community for over 90 years. We are a church that puts faith into action, supporting local partners like Isaiah House and global missions in Haiti and Sierra Leone.
The Ministry
At Morrow, family ministry isn't just a Sunday morning activity; it’s a week-round commitment to fellowship and growth. Our programs include:
Sunday School: Held during our 10:30 AM Sanctuary service, where children begin their journey of faith.
Youth Groups (JYF & MYF): Our middle and high schoolers gather on Sunday evenings for "Meetups" centered around our Sunday Supper—a cherished tradition of breaking bread together in Fellowship Hall.
Confirmation: A robust journey for students in grades 7–12 to claim their faith as their own.
Morrow Memorial Preschool (MMPS): A vital part of our community outreach, serving local families for decades.
The Ideal Candidate
You are a "people person" who thrives on building bridges between generations. You understand that faith formation happens as much over a pizza dinner as it does in a classroom. You are:
Inclusive & Progressive: Committed to a theology that welcomes and affirms every child and youth exactly as they are.
A Community Builder: Ready to recruit and inspire the incredible volunteers who power our ministries and the Turnover Sale.
A Strategic Thinker: Able to manage a $20,000 budget while exploring digital media and new ways to engage families in a busy suburban environment.
Relational: Excited to support parents and caregivers as they navigate the joys and challenges of raising children in a complex world.
Key Responsibilities
Lead & Innovate: Oversee Christian Education and Youth Ministry (preschool through 12th grade), ensuring programs are vibrant, safe, and spiritually grounding.
Collaborate: Partner with the Sunday School Superintendent and the Senior Pastor to develop curricula that reflect our values of justice and love.
Mentor: Lead Confirmation classes and guide youth through milestones like Pilgrimages and Mission Trips.
Coordinate Traditions: Plan and execute annual highlights, including Vacation Bible School and family mission opportunities.
Communicate: Share the "Morrow Story" through social media, newsletters, and from the pulpit to keep our families connected and engaged.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree required.
Proven experience in youth or children’s ministry, with a track record of executing successful events.
A commitment to United Methodist doctrine and a progressive, inclusive theological outlook.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a collaborative staff team.
About the Community
Maplewood is a vibrant, diverse town with top-tier schools and a deep appreciation for the arts and activism. With a direct train to Manhattan just a short walk from the church, you’ll enjoy the best of small-town community life with the world at your doorstep.
Benefits & Compensation
Salary: $40,000 annually.
Housing: A Parsonage is provided (a significant benefit in the Maplewood market).
Reimbursements: $3,000 for ministry expenses and $700 for continuing education.
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt.