Church Ministry Opportunities

Associate Pastor of Family Ministries

Northwest Chinese Baptist Church

Phoenix, Arizona

Position Overview

Northwest Chinese Baptist Church (NWCBC) is seeking an Associate Pastor to join our pastoral staff. The church's Chinese speaking congregation has experienced rapid growth in the past two years, primarily due to the relocation of Taiwanese families to Phoenix. This has brought exciting opportunities for ministry expansion but also cultural and logistical challenges in integration, discipleship, and outreach. The Associate Pastor will work closely with the current pastoral staff, both Chinese and English-speaking Pastors, and church leadership to shepherd the growing congregation, with a focus on family care, newcomer integration, fellowship development, discipleship and lay leadership training.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Pastoral Care and Shepherding
   • Provide pastoral care to members of the Chinese speaking congregation, with a focus on supporting families adjusting to their new environment.
   • Counsel members in spiritual, emotional, and relational matters in accordance with biblical principles.
   • Conduct visitations, particularly for new members, families, and those in need of pastoral support.
2. Preaching and Teaching
   • Preach as directed by the Pastors during Sunday services, teaching biblically sound, Christ-centered messages.
   • Lead Bible studies, discipleship training, and seminars to equip members for spiritual growth.
   • Serve as a resource for the congregation's theological and spiritual questions.
3. Newcomer Integration Develop and implement strategies to help new families feel welcomed and connected within the congregation.
   • Facilitate opportunities for newcomers to engage in small groups, fellowships, and church ministries.
4. Fellowship and Small Group Development
   • Oversee the growth and development of fellowship groups, ensuring they address the spiritual, relational, and cultural needs of the congregation.
   • Train and mentor fellowship leaders and small group facilitators.
   • Encourage intergenerational connections and unity among different groups within the church.
5. Discipleship and Leadership Development
   • Develop and implement discipleship programs that nurture spiritual growth and equip members to serve.
   • Identify and mentor emerging leaders within the congregation.
   • Promote unity and collaboration among ministry teams.
6. Missions and Outreach
   • Support outreach and relationships with young Chinese-speaking families, including evangelistic events and community engagement.
   • Collaborate with church leaders to strategize future directions for outreach and mission efforts.
7. Administration and Collaboration
   • Work in partnership with the pastors, staff, and deacons to align ministry efforts with the church's vision and mission.
   • Participate in staff meetings, strategic planning sessions, and church-wide initiatives.
   • Assist in ministry coordination during the church's building relocation project.

Qualifications

1. Spiritual Requirements
   • A mature and growing faith in Jesus Christ, evident through character, relationships, and ministry.
   • A clear calling to pastoral ministry, with a heart for shepherding and serving.
   • Agreement with the Southern Baptist Statement of Faith and Message.
2. Education and Experience
   • A Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or equivalent theological training from an accredited seminary preferred.
   • Ordained by a Southern Baptist church or church of like faith preferred.
   • Training or certification in biblical counseling
   • Fluent in Mandarin Chinese (spoken and written) and proficient in English; knows Chinese and American culture.
   • At least 3 years of church ministry experience, ideally within a Chinese church
     context.
3. Skills and Attributes
   • Strong biblical teaching and preaching skills.
   • A relational and culturally sensitive approach to pastoral care, particularly with new families.
   • Effective organizational and leadership skills to manage and grow ministries.
   • Team-oriented, collaborative, and humble in working with staff and congregational leaders.