Snapshot

Denomination: Non-Denominational

Weekly Attendance:  600-800

Location: Winona Lake, IN

The Role: Student Pastor

Meet Mission Point Community Church:

In 2010, a group of families were confronted with a reality that stirred a deep discontent. Fifty thousand people, in a county of 70,000, claimed no church affiliation. That reality was daunting. The thought that thousands of people right in our own backyard, in a community with a rich spiritual heritage, had no connection to Jesus or His church felt entirely unacceptable.

As that group of families met in a home to pray over this concern, there was a clear prompting from the Holy Spirit to not only be the voice of Jesus to the unchurched in our county, but especially to be the hands and feet of Jesus to the underserved. The hearts of those families were especially aware of the vulnerable children both in Kosciusko County and globally.

As that group said “Yes,” to this call from the Holy Spirit, the gathering of families moved from praying in a home to meeting in the back of a local restaurant…and there, Mission Point Community Church was born.

Where we have gathered has changed over the years (a restaurant, a Christian school, and now a local high school) but the mission has remained the same! We are committed to reaching our world for Jesus by becoming a church filled with people who show and share the love of Jesus everywhere we go....starting right here in our county. We continue to be excited about what God is doing in us and where He is taking us.

About the Student Pastor:

The Student Pastor/Director is responsible for the overall leadership, direction, and execution of MP Student Ministries (grades 7-12)

The Student Pastor's Responsibilities Include: 

• Create and execute a vision for Mission Point Student Ministries
• Build relationships with Mission Point students through regular contact work (showing up at events, etc.)
• Create partnerships with parents and equip them as the primary spiritual advocates for their students
• Equip students to live on mission and to show and share the love of Jesus where they live, work, learn, and play
• Oversee and execute all weekly gatherings, events, retreats, summer experiences and mission opportunities for middle school and high school
• Recruit, develop, equip, schedule, and care for the MP Student volunteer team
• Make sure all volunteers have an application and background check on file in the database before serving
• Locate and partner with student advocacy groups and community members in our area
• Cultivate relationships with area school officials and maintain a presence on campuses
• Maintain regular communications through updated MP Students webpage, electronic communication, and social media.
• Oversee and manage the Student Ministry budget
• Initiate and oversee college student integration in the life of the church
• Other duties as assigned.

What You Bring: 

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Student Pastor:

Education & Experience

• An evident and growing relationship with Jesus Christ
• Candidate must become a committed attendee of the MP Church Family
• A strong sense of calling/passion to serve the local church
• A whole-hearted agreement with Mission Point’s Statements of Faith and Biblical Morality and Biblical Affirmations of Conduct & Conviction standards
• Desire to disciple and mentor students
• Clear calling to long-term student ministry
• Ability to problem solve and then personally implement solutions.
• Proven discipleship and leadership skills
• Commitment to using strengths, developing weaknesses, and celebrating the strengths of the student population
• Experience managing volunteers
• College degree in seminary or youth ministry
• 3 years of experience in similar-sized or larger student ministry

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Skilled in organization, administration, and interpersonal relationships.

Personal Characteristics & Qualifications

• Passion for students: Committed to long-term ministry, not a stepping stone.
• Natural connector: Able to build relationships and create an attractive, welcoming ministry.
• Leader of leaders: Skilled at recruiting, equipping, and empowering others to lead.
• Contact work advocate: Encourages leaders to connect with students outside of Sundays.
• Proactive in schools: Finds innovative ways to reach students where they are.
• Mission-driven: Measures success by how many students live on mission in their spheres.
• Creative and innovative: Willing to do ministry in a unique, non-traditional way.
• Parent partnership: Engages and wins confidence from parents, treating ministry as a family partnership.
• Culturally aware: Open to addressing social issues and engaging in meaningful conversations.
• Bilingual: Preferred, with a focus on generational language (beyond just Spanish).
• Teachable: Open to learning and growing, especially in theology.
• Leadership traits: Humble, hungry, and smart with a servant-hearted approach.
• Experience: Some diversity in ministry experience beyond small-town Indiana paradigms.
• Genuine love for Jesus: Deep personal commitment to living out and sharing the gospel.

What it's Like to Live in Winona Lake, IN: 

Winona Lake, Indiana, is a picturesque town with a rich history and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes it an ideal place to call home. Situated on the shores of its namesake lake, residents enjoy a lifestyle that revolves around the natural beauty of the area, with plenty of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The town is known for its small-town charm, historic buildings, and strong sense of community, creating an environment where neighbors are friendly, and local businesses thrive. Winona Lake is also home to Grace College, which adds to the town’s vibrant culture and offers opportunities for education, cultural events, and community involvement.

Living in Winona Lake provides a peaceful, slower pace of life, yet it offers easy access to nearby cities like Warsaw, which is just a short drive away and provides additional amenities, shopping, and healthcare options. The town has a variety of local parks, walking trails, and scenic spots, making it perfect for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Events like the annual “Winona Lake Freedom Fest” and the “Heritage Days” celebration bring the community together, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a career, or retiring, Winona Lake offers a well-rounded lifestyle where you can enjoy a blend of tranquility, culture, and outdoor recreation—all within a close-knit and caring community.