Opening/Closing Date: November 18, 2024 to November 30, 2024
Description
The United Church of Canada is seeking an individual to fill the role of Community of Faith Support Minister, Nakonha:ka Regional Council on a permanent full-time basis (35 hours per week).
Eastern Ontario Outaouais, Nakonha:ka and East Central Ontario Regional Councils are composed of all ministry personnel within its geographic bounds, ministers of denominations within mutual recognition agreements while under appointment or call, and lay members elected by the communities of faith, respecting the balance of lay and ministry personnel where possible. They support congregations and communities of faith, and numerous other ministries including camps, youth and young adult work, leadership development and new ministry initiatives. They focus on providing services that assist church personnel and maintain good relationships between congregations and personnel. They also provide staff, finances, advice, advocacy, and program resources to ministries to enhance their work, and support the work of General Council.
Position
The Community of Faith Support Minister assists in building the capacity of communities of faith to engage in ministry, visioning, strategic planning, and key regional administrative and policy support focusing on ministry and governance. They nurture the relationship between the Region, the General Council and communities of faith by providing support and resources.
The current main areas of focus are:
- Communities of Faith Support (50%): Strengthen relationships between the regional council and communities of faith by leading volunteer efforts and providing guidance. This includes supporting new and emerging communities of faith as they adapt to the United Church of Canada’s culture and policies and assisting communities as they discern ministry options such as local ministry partnerships, innovative ministries, and shared ministries. Key responsibilities include collaborating with the Pastoral Relations Minister to support governance, policy, and emergency response, as well as providing leadership for the future vision of the United Church of Canada within the region. The role also involves aiding communities during crises or conflict, supporting governance in ministry clusters, and referring ministry personnel to the appropriate ministers.
- Resources (25%): Provide guidance to communities of faith in developing their vision, managing assets within regional policies, and adhering to local governance best practices to enhance congregational health. This includes supporting communities of faith during lifecycle changes, overseeing congregational property matters, and collaborating with the Finance and Extension Board. Additionally, it involves assisting regions with oversight of communities of faith, supporting those without appointed ministers, and integrating work across regional portfolios in collaboration with staff and the Stewardship and Gifts Officer.
- Regional Priorities (25%): Leading the implementation of specific strategic plan activities in partnership with the Regional Executive and Executive Minister and in collaboration with the Pastoral Relations Minister. The role provides essential leadership within the region, supports Networks and Clusters, and addresses additional tasks to ensure the effective operation of the Regional Council.
Qualifications
- Post-secondary education (4 years) preferably with a theological degree from an accredited university and/or significant training and experience at the Regional or Denominational level with a focus on administrative support and policy;
- 3-5 years of related experience in congregational ministry, outreach or overseas mission or education and community development with demonstrated skills in group planning and facilitation;
- Knowledge of life and work of The United Church of Canada or experience working in a similar faith community is an asset;
- Ability to develop strong working relationships working collaboratively within a diverse intercultural community with cultural sensitivity and awareness;
- Excellent communication skills in both English and French;
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate with others in a respectful and sensitive manner and articulate concisely and clearly;
- Good judgement, discernment and analysis skills as responsibilities can be difficult and complex and recommendations can have long-lasting effects; openness to consulting with other supervisors when no clear advice available;
- Ability to articulate the link between faith and ministry practice and to reflect theologically and interculturally;
- Strong administration, time management, planning, organizational and implementation skills;
- Ability to work independently, collaboratively and collegially with other members of the staff team and with volunteers;
- Solid computer skills in the use of various software applications including: Office 365, Dynamics, SharePoint, One Drive, Teams, Zoom, and other social media and online platforms; and,
- Willingness and ability to travel throughout the region.
- Alignment with the vision and values of The United Church of Canada – respect, integrity, passion and diversity;
- Motivated self-starter capable of identifying needs;
- Initiative, good judgment, tact, discretion, resourcefulness, and creativity in problem solving; and,
- Recognition of personal and professional boundaries.
Working Conditions
The United Church of Canada has adopted a hybrid workplace model and thus providing flexibility for this position. This position is a full-time deployed position that will require the employee to work from home and to travel to meetings from time to time. They are responsible for their own timetable/work schedule and regular full accountability within the staff team is required. Collaboration and partnership with regional council staff will be key. Sitting and viewing a computer screen for long periods, keyboarding/using voice recognition software, intermittent physical activity including sitting, standing and being on the phone for long periods of time will be required. Travel within the region and occasional evening and weekend work will be required.
As part of our ongoing commitment to Accessibility, The United Church of Canada will provide assistance to employees who request accommodation throughout their employment with United Church of Canada, unless the position is deemed to be a bona fide occupational requirement and/or to the point of undue hardship considering issues of health, safety and cost.
Compensation
The target hiring range for this position is $67,516.87 to $76,949.73 with the ability to progress to a maximum of $90,022.47, based on category 7 on our salary range. Placement on the salary range will be based on factors such as market condition, internal equity, candidate experience skills and qualifications relevant to the role. Pension and group benefit plans coverage and annual vacation round out this compensation package.
To Apply
Interested applicants are invited to submit their resume, quoting job number 24-45, to Human Resources, e-mail: careers@united-church.ca
Downloads
- cof-support-minister-jd.pdf (181.67 KB) (PDF)