-Youth Pastor FAQ’s-

As we enter 2025, we are excited and expectant for what God is doing in the lives of our young people. If you are a part of Sutton Vineyard, are applying for the role, or are just curious about the role of a Youth Pastor, you may have some questions. Here are a few common questions you might be asking.

1. Why is the church hiring a part-time youth pastor instead of a full-time one?

We aim to balance ministry needs with demand and financial stewardship. This approach allows us to focus our resources across all areas of church life, ensuring that the essential areas of our church community continue to thrive. We must operate both from a place of faith and within our current financial capabilities.

2. How will a part-time youth pastor impact the youth ministry?

We believe that a part-time youth pastor will be able to effectively meet the needs of our youth ministry. They will focus on building relationships, nurturing spiritual growth, and leading impactful programs. Volunteers and other leaders will continue to play a vital role in creating a thriving youth community as we continue to empower our incredible leaders to serve. This past season, we've seen our volunteer leaders step up tremendously, allowing them to be equipped and effectively embody Ephesians 4:12. We want our future youth pastor to build on the momentum rather than replace it.

3. What are the advantages of hiring a part-time youth pastor?

• Flexibility to grow the role as the ministry develops.

• Opportunity to collaborate with skilled volunteers.

• Better allocation of resources to meet broader church needs.

• There is a greater possibility for hybrid roles or a bi-vocational setup, particularly with our proximity to London.

4. Could this position become full-time in the future?

Yes, we’ll regularly review the ministry's needs. If growth or demand increases or the church's needs shift, we will prayerfully consider expanding the role. We expect all of our ministry roles to grow as the church continues to thrive.  Additionally, depending on the applicant's skill set, we anticipate them having the opportunity to grow and effectively minister to other areas of the church as appropriate. 

5. How will the church ensure continuity in leadership for the youth?

We’re committed to providing consistent leadership. The youth pastor will work closely with other leaders, particularly one of our Senior Pastors, to ensure a healthy transition and strong pastoral care.

6. Will hiring part-time limit the vision for youth ministry?

Not at all! Our vision for youth ministry remains ambitious. A part-time role, supported by a committed team, allows us to pursue God’s plans for our young people effectively. As previously mentioned we believe this role has the potential to grow and we are excited about that growth. Most churches, those of our size, and those that are larger, rely on volunteer leaders to form a dynamic and healthy part of the plan for growing and reaching young people.

7. What can the congregation do to support the youth ministry?

• Pray regularly for the youth, leaders, and pastor.

• Volunteer to help support our young people.

• Encourage our youth leaders and offer them prayerful and prophetic words to underpin them.

• Keep a hopeful and ambitious attitude as we lean into the exciting things God is doing.

• Give regularly and sacrificially to help ensure roles like this remain financially viable.

If you have any further questions or are just curious, please get in touch. We'll do our best to provide some insight.