Alumni News

Parish Administrator, Part-Time, Episcopal: Cambridge MA

Saint Peter’s is a multicultural, vibrant Episcopal congregation of prayerful, generous, and welcoming Christians in the heart of Central Square in Cambridge. We seek a highly organized Parish Administrator with strong organizational skills, attention to priorities and accuracy of details who is a self-starter and has excellent people skills. The parish administrator will report directly to the Rector. This position provides administrative support to the Rector, the Officers, and the Vestry. Discretion and the ability to manage confidential information are
critical.

The administrator is responsible for a broad variety of tasks including but not limited to:
• Check voicemail and reply to or forward messages as needed
• Maintain church records and files
• Prepare the bulletin
• Preparing digital and print communications
• Managing building space rentals
• Database management
• Check office supplies, order as needed
• Help with administrative duties surrounding special events

Familiarity with standard PC-based software is required; knowledge of communication applications (e.g., Mailchimp) Social Media (Facebook, Twitter), Database upkeep (ServantKeeper), and Google Suite would be a plus. One year of experience in an office environment or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Paid position for 20 hours/week. Flexibility in schedule to work fewer hours during the summer and more during the program year.

Please email/mail cover letter and resume to Father Derrick Muwina: rector@sainpeterscambridge.org, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 15 Sellers Street, Cambridge, MA 02139.

Settled Pastor, Full-Time, UCC: Manchester, VT

First Congregational Church of Manchester, VT, is searching for a full-time, settled pastor to lead us into the renaissance of faith and life we believe God is calling us to accomplish. This church is yearning for a wide-open door to Jesus Christ, spiritual revival, a robust ministry to families and young people, care for our elders, a profound reconnection through service and outreach with our wider community, and a loving relationship with our new pastor.

Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, we have arrived at a point of prayerful clarity for our church’s future and invite a new pastor to join us as we embark upon this hopeful journey as a renewed congregation of committed Christians, the latest generation in a history of 241 years.

Located in Manchester, Vermont we are nestled at the foot of Mount Equinox, with the Taconic range to the west and the stunning Green Mountains to the east. Our area boasts many multi-seasonal activities and cultural offerings: Arts Center, summer theater and museums, as well as hiking, fly-fishing, golfing and skiing just to name a few. We are a mix of “local” residents, part-time second-homeowners, people who have chosen to make this their home, plus a new wave of families who have moved to the area in the last 18 months. People are known to move here so their children can attend the excellent schools for which we are noted.

Worship in our 150-year-old classic New England church and sanctuary is open to all whether they be members or friends, searchers or skeptics. We want to be there for everyone, unconditionally. Our music program adds to the inspiration people seem to especially desire in our trying age. We have prepared a new wineskin for the new wine we desire (Matthew 9:17). We invite you to look more deeply into our Local Church Profile. We are eager to learn who God will choose to bring the indispensable gifts of ministry and pastorship to this renewing Body of Christ!

Who To Contact

Who To Contact

Name: JACKIE LINGELBACH
Title: Ministries Coordinator
Phone: 802-728-4999
Email: vtconmincoor@gmail.com
Name: Ken Moriarty
Title: Search Committee
Phone: 802-728-8725
Email: search@fccmanchester.org

Bookkeeper, Part-Time, Presbyterian: Newton, MA

Newton Presbyterian Church is looking to hire a part-time bookkeeper (8 hours per month).

Newton Presbyterian Church (NPC) has worshipped at Vernon Street in Newton since the 1940s. We are part of the Presbyterian Church (PC-USA). NPC is a growing congregation that is marked by its clear biblical teaching, its love of its Presbyterian heritage, and its social justice ministry that seeks to carry the love of Christ to all people.

Position Description
The NPC Bookkeeper is accountable to and reports to the NPC Treasurer on all financial matters. As needed, questions and issues regarding work duties, work schedule, time off, or any issues should be brought to the attention of the Treasurer. If the Treasurer is not available these can be discussed with the Pastor of NPC Church.

The Bookkeeper is responsible for financial matters pertaining to QuickBooks processing; payroll processing; accounts receivable and account disbursements; updating QuickBooks to reflect accurate information pertaining to NPC investment accounts and reconciling the NPC records to the Village Bank accounts. Other duties as necessary may also be included.

Specific duties
1. Once per month or as requested/needed, the day to be determined:

a. Payroll Processing – process payroll including Federal and state taxes in Quickbooks 1X per month on the third week of the month to produce checks in a timely manner by the end of the month.
b. Check Requests – As needed, record bills into Quickbooks and prepare for the Treasurer to pay electronically.
c. Mission Checks – Record monies deposited by the Financial Secretary for missions into Quickbooks and prepare for the Treasurer to issue a check as needed.
d. Investment Reports – update QuickBooks semi-annually (or as requested) to reflect activity from Commonwealth Financial Network.
e. Reconciliations – reconcile QuickBooks and Village Bank statements on a monthly basis.

Position Requirements
Requires a high school diploma and a minimum of two years of Bookkeeping experience including proficiency with Quickbooks, basic a/r and a/p, journal entry, adjustments, and reporting. Must be able to work professionally and independently, in a positive and team-spirited manner. Must also be comfortable oftentimes working alone in the church office. A flexible and adaptable individual who maintains confidentiality is key. Experience working in a non-profit environment is desirable. A college degree is a plus. Prior experience working in a place of worship is very helpful.

To apply, please send your resume/letter of application to: newtonpresbyterian@gmail.com

Newton Presbyterian Church is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Prof. Christopher Evans Interviewed by Toronto Business Journal

January 2022 – Professor of History of Christianity and Methodist Studies Christopher Evans was recently interviewed by the Toronto Business Journal. The conversation with Ray Samuels and Santhosh Christudas revolved around themes present in Prof. Evan’s recent publications, including the context of the social gospel (The Social Gospel in American Religion, 2017), and Frances Willard’s views on the social consequences of alcohol and drug abuse and the connectedness to poverty and domestic abuse, including how she branded herself as a Christian Socialist (Do Everything: The Biography of Frances Willard, forthcoming). 

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Bishop Woodie W. White (STH ’61) Honored with the Rev. Lowery Civil Rights Award

This press release was originally published by the UMC Council of Bishops on 1/31/2022, and can be found here.

Bishop Woodie W. White

Former United Methodist Church Council of Bishops President retired Bishop Woodie W. White was recently honored by the state of Georgia with the Rev. Dr. Joseph E. Lowery Civil Rights Award. The award was given during the State of Georgia’s 37th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration of Service.
 

In 2009, Rev. Lowery (left) received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Barack Obama.

The Rev. Lowery Civil Rights Award is named in honor of the iconic United Methodist minister who was the founding member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Martin Luther King Jr. and others, serving as its president, later chairman of the board. He died March 27, 2020. The Rev. Lowery Civil Rights Award is given annually to an outstanding individual or organization in recognition of their unwavering advocacy for leadership development in the fight for civil rights.

Bishop White served as United Methodist bishop from 1984 until his retirement in 2004. In 1996, he became the president of the Council of Bishops and served a one-year term. Before he was elected bishop in the North Central Jurisdiction, he served as the first General Secretary of the General Commission on Religion and Race from1968 to 1984.
 
After election, he was assigned to the Illinois Area (1984-1992) and later to the Indiana Area in 1992, and he retired there in 2004. 
 
Bishop Woodie and Jennie May “Kim” Tolson White have four daughters: Kimberly Yvette, Hope Angela, Valerie Elizabeth, Sharon Denise; one son, Bryan Michael, and eight grandchildren.

Director of Children and Youth Ministries, Part-Time, UMC: Needham, MA

Carter Memorial UMC in Needham, MA is looking for the Director of Children and Youth Ministries (DCYM) to lead children and youth ministries. A Part-time (20 hours) position.

We are looking for someone who can work as a team, provides the vision, structure, and coordination to develop and execute a holistic program of faith formation and spiritual development for the children and youth at the church.

The Director of Children and Youth Ministries (DCYM), working with the Senior Pastor, provides the vision, structure and coordination to develop and execute a holistic program of faith formation and spiritual development for the children and youth at Carter Memorial UMC.  The DCYM collaborates with the Senior Pastor and Children and Youth Ministry Team to identify needs, develop curriculum, and guide their implementation, including empowering laity involvement.

Download the full job description here: Director of Children and Youth Ministries - Job description 2022

Contact:
Pastor Sandra Bonnette-Kim
Email: pastorsandrabk@gmail.com

Chaplain, US Army

Chaplain Candidate:
Serve in the Army Reserves as a paid Chaplain Intern being supervised by an Army Reserve Chaplain, go to Chaplain Basic Officer Leadership Course, Part-time (one weekend per month and two week annual training once per year), tuition assistance available ($4,500/yr with 4 year Army Reserve commitment)

Army Reserve Chaplain:
Provide Religious Support and Advise Military Commanders on Religion, Ethics, Morality and Morals; Provide Pastoral care for service members and their Families, Facilitate or Coordinate Religious Services, Part-time, trained at Chaplain Basic Officer Leadership Course, qualify for education after certain time in service, qualify for reduced cost health benefits

Regular Army Chaplain:
Provide Religious Support and Advise Military Commanders on Religion, Ethics, Morality and Morals; Provide Pastoral care and counseling for service members and their Families, Facilitate or Coordinate Religious Services; Full Time salary; Housing Allowance per location; VA Loan, Health Care coverage for Member and Dependents.

Read and Apply Here

 

Director / Pastor of Youth Ministry, Full-Time, Presbyterian: Houston, TX

First Presbyterian Church, a thriving ECO congregation in Houston, TX, is seeking a full-time Director/Pastor of Youth Ministry (ordained or non-ordained). Compelled by the love of Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, FPC creates an environment in which high school and middle school students belong like family, behold Jesus, and become disciples.

As part of the Next Generation Ministries team, the Youth Director/Pastor provides vision and leadership to the ministry to youth and their parents, including:
● Mentoring and coaching the four associate youth directors
● Creating and implementing a strategy to recruit and train volunteers for the youth ministry
● Casting a vision for the evangelism and discipleship of the youth in the church and community
● Developing discipleship and outreach opportunities for parents of youth.

Qualifications for this position include strong relational and organizational skills, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to effectively lead staff and
volunteer teams. Interested candidates should have at least Bachelor’s degree and experience working in a large, multi-staff youth ministry. Resumes, along with a cover letter, can be sent to Laura Addis (laura.addis@ministryarchitects.com).

Rev. Dr. Cynthia J. Edson (STH ’70)

This obituary was originally posted by the UU Ministers Association and can be found here.

The Rev. Dr. Cynthia J. Edson died on October 6, 2018 at the age of 73.

Cynthia was born on July 26, 1945 in Weymouth, MA to William Gordon Edson and Catherine Jane (Wishart) Edson. She graduated from the University of Connecticut, CT in 1967 with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, following which she earned her Master of Theology from the Boston University, MA in 1970. In 1972, Cynthia received her Doctor of Ministry from the Andover Newton Theological School, MA.

Rev. Dr. Edson was ordained on May 24, 1970 by the First Parish UU Church at Saugus, MA where she carried out her ministry from 1969 to 1971. She was then called to the UU Church of Berks County in Reading, PA where she would serve from 1973 until 1977. On September of 1977, Rev. Dr. Edson accepted a call from the Unitarian Church of Bangor, ME and ministered to the Bangor congregation for two years. Over the next decade, Rev. Dr. Edson carried out series of interim and called ministries at the following congregations: the First Parish Church in Beverly UU, Beverly, MA (1983-1985); the First Parish Church of the Presidents, Quincy MA (1986); the Anchorage UU Fellowship Inc., Anchorage, AK (1987-1988); the UU Fellowship of Fayetteville, Fayetteville, NC (1988-1989); the Unitarian Coastal Fellowship, Morehead City, NC (1988-1991); the UU Congregation of Greenville, Greenville, NC (1988-1991); the UU Church of Weymouth, Weymouth, MA (1991-1992); and finally at the Emerson UU Church, Canoga Park, CA (1993).

Rev. Dr. Edson carried out a great deal of service on behalf of the denomination. She served the UU World as a Managing Editor from 1970 to 1972 and as President for the Joseph Priestley District from 1973 to 1976. She was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Women’s Federation; co-editor for the UUMA’s newsletter during 1977 to 1979; and secretary for the Ferry Beach Park Association beginning 1981 to 1982.

Outside her denominational work, Cynthia belonged to several community organizations. She functioned as an environmental chair for the League of Women Voters, and as a steering committee member for the Ministerium (Ecumenical) Social Action Cabinet. She was advisor for People Against Rape, as well as clergy advisor to Planned Parenthood, Maternal Health Service of NE PA, and School Health Education Advisor for the Bangor city, ME. Furthermore, she served as a delegate to the White House Conference on Libraries. Cynthia was also a dedicated writer. Her writings appeared in the Journal of Pastoral Care; the Journal of Psychical Research; and the Haiku Foundation. She showed a lifelong interest in antiques, art and architecture, bibliomania, folklore, and enjoyed tennis.

Cynthia is survived by her longtime friends, Nancy and Ross Edwards, Rosemary Jenkes, Mary Lou Rogers, Carol X (PA), Barry and Kenneth Glover.

A memorial service is being planned for the spring.

Associate Director, Full-Time, Higher Ed: Remote or South Hamilton, MA

Gordon Conwell is a multidenominational, Protestant graduate school, unique with its broad array of over 2,100 students and 200 faculty and staff from 98 denominations and 64 countries. We offer a residential model of education at South Hamilton, MA (our main campus); an urban context offering classes in five languages in Boston, MA; adult educational models in both our Charlotte, NC campus and our offerings in Jacksonville, FL; in addition to online and cohort models involving students from around the world.

Our mission is to prepare men and women for ministry at home and abroad. Rooted in the gospel and God’s Word, the seminary seeks to develop Christian leaders who are thoughtful, globally aware, spiritually mature, and ready for a broad array of ministries. While being historically orthodox and evangelical, we seek to address the issues of our times with both relevance to the culture and faithfulness to Christ and God’s truthful Word

Position Summary

This position supports the strategic selection, development, and launch of products and services from Gordon-Conwell (Ockenga) Institute. Working closely with the Dean, and under the supervision of the Executive Director, this position enhances the relationships between the various centers, and is responsible for developing and launching existing and new opportunities for non-degree or co-curricular learning experiences via digital, hybrid, and in-person channels.

The Associate Director, GCI will work closely with the Executive Director to align and manage the product roadmap for GCI centers (e.g., Thriving in Ministry in New England, The Center for the Study of Global Christianity, etc.), and will assist in assessing overall portfolio performance, and overseeing project delivery and performance. This role contributes to decision making based on meaningful metrics and criteria, and supports leadership in choosing which initiatives to start, maintain, or shut down as needed. This role will conduct market research, data collection/analysis, and financial analysis in the discovery and design phases; will identify and track key measures and resources in the develop and deploy phases; and will provide regular assessments and decisions on product viability, feasibility, and sustainability in the documentation phase.

This role will travel to other campuses as needed to ensure center visibility and support across all of GCTS.

Primary Responsibilities

GCI Center & Network Relationships

• Cultivate relationships of trust with center staff and local ministry leaders, deepening their engagement with GCI's work, as well as financial and other support.

• Support GCI's promotional efforts and general communications, including but not limited to social media and regular content publication, in consultation with GCI team and marketing partner.

• With GCTS Advancement team, cultivate potential GCI donor relationships to further the work of the centers.

Product Development

• With the Dean, conduct conversations with center directors and staff to effectively redevelop, promote, and sell unique products and services from each center, assessing their purpose, offerings, budget, and operations as appropriate.

• Manage the process for evaluating existing and new offerings, product prioritization and development, and launch by conducting research to analyze product viability, performance, competitiveness, and market/solution fit, while listening for, uncovering, and resolving potential conflicts around product/project priorities.

• Leverage existing infrastructure to increase revenue so that GCI can maintain and grow audiences by gathering and identifying project scope and definition requirements including, financial costs and benefits, ROI, and business case.

• Design and collect data from product performance and customer feedback to evaluate success and make recommendations for improving or adjusting projects.

• Assist with developing mutually beneficial affiliate partnership agreements with subject matter experts and partners.

Project Management

• With the GCI team, oversee a portfolio of multiple and concurrent products and projects: monitor launch timelines, quality level, budget, while addressing issues and risks at major milestones; identify key metrics to demonstrate progress and ensure that products continue to align with strategic objectives to demonstrate benefits; provide regular status reports to GCI and GCTS leadership.

• Use KPIs to demonstrate progress and quality of outputs, and ensure that projects continue to align with strategic objectives to demonstrate benefits.

• Update and maintain materials such as Best Practices, FAQs, and training materials to support in-house team members and consultants.

• Coordinate with, and supervise where possible, on-campus event staff for the planning, merchandising and execution of in-person events.

• Regularly audit technology stack to ensure need-solution fit, financial stewardship, and consistent operational infrastructure.

• Provide clear, proactive communication to leadership on issues of concern.

• Build and manage relationships with in-house and external partners.

• Other duties as assigned.

Required Competencies

• Commitment to the core values of GCI.

• Love of diverse people and cultures and a willingness and ability to seamlessly engage people kindly and respectfully from diverse backgrounds, including fellow staff, stakeholders, and ministry leaders.

• Demonstrated self-starter with the ability to oversee multiple projects and initiatives concurrently, prioritizing and completing a variety of simultaneous tasks with a high level of proactive organization.

• Effectively collect and interpret data from multiple sources with a strong attention to detail while exercising sound judgement and analytical skills.

• Ability to communicate information effectively, both orally and in writing within GCI and GCTS as well as external clients, partners, and other stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to responsibly steward financial and relational resources.

• Ability to work independently and with our small but growing team.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from college or university.

• Experience in higher education environments.

• 3+ years related experience, including direct responsibility for strategic planning, financial and data analysis, portfolio management, and associated research.

• Familiarity with learning management systems.

• Experience in designing and implementing end-to-end systems and processes that do not yet exist and improving those that do.

• Customer-service oriented.

• Proficient in MS Office.

Annual Salary: $50,000.00-$55,000.00

Application Process

Please apply through Gordon-Conwell’s Career Center available here: https://www.gordonconwell.edu/employment/

Please include these documents in either Microsoft Word or PDF formats:

• A cover letter addressed to Megan Robinson, Executive Director, Gordon Conwell (Ockenga) Institute, explaining your interest in the position.

• A formal CV that includes the names of at least three references.

No hard copy mail inquiries please. Candidates will be invited to interview at the request of the search committee.