Position Opening for Campus Ministry Developer/Coordinator

University Mennonite Church in State College, PA, home of the Pennsylvania State University, seeks to develop a ministry model providing a vibrant Mennonite/Anabaptist presence on secular universities. It is our vision for the ministry to link our local congregation, other local churches and faith-based groups, the Penn State campus, and possibly a residential community/fraternity.

While our initial vision is flexible and in the process of being clarified and focused, we desire a model that

• reflects the (radical) values of Christianity,
• is outward-focused and change oriented,
• is rooted in the Anabaptist faith tradition of moral deliberation, discipleship building, mutual sharing, and crossing religious and secular boundaries through the ideals of peace making, reconciliation and love for neighbor.

To help in the process of formulating and creating such a model, we seek a campus ministry developer/coordinator to work intensively with us for at least a 6-month period. The job would encompass three inter-related dimensions of research, programming and support.  Our ideal candidate is a person with:

• a foundation in/understanding of Anabaptist theology and traditions
• a minimum of a BA/BS degree from an accredited university
• a demonstrated interest in and commitment to campus ministry
• strong research and organizational abilities
• good interpersonal and communication skills
• ability to take initiative while also working as part of a team

More specifically, we anticipate the job to include the following types of responsibilities:

1/3 research: what are the possible configurations/various models for the community, what have other groups done? What are the residential options: Purchase, lease, rent, size? What is the history of other intentional groups, how are they funded, sustainability, costs, programs, problems (grad students vs undergrads, families with children, rural vs. urban backgrounds, academic component, etc.)

1/3 programming: direct involvement with students, faculty, UMC members to develop outreach possibilities, organize social activities, plan service trips, develop outreach resources (e.g., web/campus presence, possibly theological aspects), links w/other faith traditions (e.g., other churches, etc.)

1/3 Support: to develop links with other churches locally and nationally, identify potential funding support, write proposals, develop materials, make visits, etc.

Hours/housing/compensation negotiable and commensurate with experience.

Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume  and names and contact information of three references to:

Chair, Anabaptist Student Ministry Committee
University Mennonite Church
1606 Norma Street
State College, PA 16801
Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

For more information, contact Pastor Marv Friesen

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814.234.2039 TEL
814.234.5257 FAX