How to Apply for a Ministry Job

Working in a ministry job can provide a feeling of satisfaction.

Getting a job in ministry enables you to apply your talents and skills to serve people at a variety of levels. Ministry jobs range from becoming a pastor to working with youths or as part of a worship team. Different denominations have different ministerial titles, but any job where you are ministering to the spiritual needs of people on a regular basis can be considered a ministry position.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper
• Internet access (optional)

Instructions

1. Write down the different types of ministry opportunities that appeal to you and any variations of that ministry that might be available. If you feel as though you want to preach, consider becoming a pastor. If you see yourself ministering one-on-one with homeless individuals or street passers-by, consider evangelism or chaplain. Youth ministry varies based on the ages of the children. Worship teams need directors and other support staff.

2. Research any educational requirements these types of positions require. For example, most preaching and pastoral positions require at least a bachelor's in theology, pastoral studies or in divinity. Youth pastors and directors most likely will need some teaching background and classes in counseling.

3. Prepare your resume. Include any previous ministerial experience you've had, paid or volunteer, or any positions where you were serving the spiritual or emotional needs of people. These positions could include actual pastoral or preaching experience, worship team experience or even just visiting those in nursing homes or hospitals.

4. Contact your local place of worship as a starting point for ministry job opportunities. If your place of worship does not have any openings, proceed with the application process to keep on file. Contact other places of worship, nonprofits or faith-based businesses to see what types of jobs are available. The United Way, for example, offers a list of resources for nonprofits that provide assistance to qualifying community members. The list of local resources can be a good starting place for ministry opportunities. If you are attending a religious school or seminary, its career services department may be able to assist you.

5. Provide your job history, and sign background check or psychological evaluation authorization forms depending on the position.

6. Participate in the interview process. Many ministry jobs will ask standard interview questions in addition to questions about ministerial ethics, cultural sensitivity and certain ministerial protocols such as baptism and wedding procedures. If you went to a religious school, you may be asked to describe your coursework and how those courses helped shape your character or vision. Follow up with any key decision-makers or other points of contact as instructed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a criminal history, disclose everything as requested by the application, even if you have convictions that may be deferred or are only traffic-related. Whether or not the application asks you to describe the circumstances, be honest and disclose everything. Your interview manager and human resources department will decide how best to proceed. Because your application becomes a part of your employee file, full disclosure ensures proper protocols are followed and reduces the chance of future allegations of nondisclosure.

References

• Work Ministry: The Interview
• United Way Wordwide: The Worldwide Network

Resources

• Church Jobs: Welcome Job Seekers
• Church Staffing: Search Job Openings