Associate Minister

Good News in the Neighborhood is seeking a passionate Associate Minister to join our growing team. This leader will work closely with Pastor Luke and the existing staff to build, nurture, and expand ministry teams, while helping to shape the spiritual and organizational rhythms of our church. This role requires a relational leader who thrives in both structured planning and spontaneous moments of ministry, and who can bring out the best in volunteers and fellow leaders.

The Associate Minister will take initiative in developing and strengthening internal ministry teams, and ensuring meaningful, Christ-centered ministry. This individual must be both a team builder and a shepherd, capable of offering pastoral care while also helping lead large-scale events and gatherings with excellence.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Sunday Morning and Monday Evening Gatherings:

• Oversee the logistics and execution of Sunday church services and Monday evening Bible Teaching and dinner. Lead preservice volunteer huddles. Work with volunteers and production teams to ensure smooth flow, spiritual focus, and engaging environments for worship, prayer, and teaching.

Discipleship Groups:

• In collaboration with staff and volunteer leaders, design, lead, and refine Church School experiences both digitally and in-person. These Morning and Evening Hour groups are intended for deep connection, discipleship, and spiritual growth. Experiment with formats and approaches to increase engagement and impact.

Care and Connection:

• Be a visible presence at church gatherings intentionally connecting with attenders and following up as needed.

• Provide encouragement, accountability, and development pathways for people. Gracefully shepherd individuals at a pace that feels right for them, helping them connect into the life of the church (serving and discipleship opportunities).

• Provide pastoral care and presence to the congregation through various life circumstances—hospital visits, crisis support, coaching, prayer, and encouragement—especially when Pastor Luke is unavailable or occupied with other responsibilities.

Project Management:

• Oversee the management and delivery of church wide projects as assigned.

• Develop and execute detailed project plans utilizing strong attention to detail, as well as flexibility. This includes developing and organizing internal teams, coordinating events, and ensuring smooth execution of church initiatives, all while fostering a Christ-centered and collaborative environment

Staff and Team Collaboration:

• Weekly Staff Meetings - Engage as a key contributor in the weekly all-staff meeting. Share updates, brainstorm creatively, and help align team efforts across ministries.

• Weekly One-on-One with Pastor Luke - Participate in a dedicated weekly meeting with Pastor Luke to provide updates, align on priorities, receive feedback, and collaborate on vision and execution.

EDUCATION EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in ministry, theology, or a related field.

• 3+ years of ministry leadership (required)

• Pastoral experience (preferred)

“We love the good news. We are giving our lives to trying to spread it. Our ministry passions are clear bible teaching, ethnic diversity, and growing our ability to truly love each other. We believe the timeless truths of the Bible and the story of God they explain. We don’t just want to know these truths but live them as well.” Good News in the Neighborhood is a dynamic, multiethnic evangelical church located in Palatine, Illinois. Founded by Pastor Luke and Kristen MacDonald, the church emphasizes clear Bible teaching, authentic community, and active outreach. The church offers Sunday services at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:15 am., and a Monday evening service at 6:30 pm. Committed to being "good for everyone," they engage the community through initiatives like the Good News Truck, which provides free treats and fosters connections. Their mission is to live out the Gospel by loving God, loving people, and bringing good news to their neighborhood.