Job Opportunity: Director of Formation: Lay & Ordained Ministry.

Employment Type: Full-Time, 2-Year Fixed Term Contract

Reports to: Principal of Trinity Theological College

Job Description:

Trinity Theological College invites applications for the position of Director of Formation: Lay & Ordained Ministry. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the ministry formation program, supporting the spiritual, theological, and practical development of students preparing for both lay and ordained ministry. Additionally, the Director will play a key role in teaching ministry- related papers such as pastoral theology, ministry leadership, and contextual theology, ensuring academic rigor and alignment with the College's vision.

This role is essential in shaping future ministry leaders for diverse contexts within the church and the wider community, ensuring alignment with the mission of Te Haahi Weteriana o Aotearoa and ecumenical values. The Director will design and implement a holistic formation program that incorporates the key principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Bicultural Partnership, and Climate Justice, fostering spiritual growth and leadership development.

Key Responsibilities:

 

1.    Program Leadership:

 

o   Lead and oversee the ministry formation program for both lay and ordained ministry candidates.

 

o   Develop and implement a comprehensive curriculum that integrates spiritual, academic, and practical components for ministry readiness.

 

o   Teach ministry-related papers, such as practical theology, pastoral care, and church leadership, contributing to students' theological and ministerial education.

 

o   Ensure the inclusion of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Climate Justice as core aspects of the ministry education.

 

2.    Formation & Mentoring:

o   Provide individual and group mentoring to students, fostering their spiritual growth and leadership potential.

 

o   Create and monitor personalized ministry formation plans tailored to the unique callings of students.

 

o   Facilitate spiritual retreats, workshops, and reflective practice sessions.

 

3.    Partnership & Collaboration:

 

o    Work closely with denominational bodies, particularly the Methodist Church of New Zealand, to align the program with the evolving needs of the church.

 

o    Collaborate with faculty to ensure academic teaching, including ministry-related papers, supports ministry formation objectives.

 

o    Build and maintain relationships with local and national church leaders, offering students practical ministry opportunities.

 

4.    Cultural Integration & Justice Initiatives:

 

o    Ensure the formation program emphasizes cultural awareness and biculturalism, with a focus on the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

 

o    Lead initiatives that integrate climate and social justice themes into the formation process, equipping students to serve in contexts requiring advocacy and ethical leadership.

 

5.    Administration & Reporting:

 

o    Manage all administrative aspects of the ministry formation program, including scheduling, student communications, and evaluation processes.

 

o    Prepare reports on program progress for the Principal, College Council, and denominational partners.

 

o    Participate in the student selection process, ensuring alignment with college values and entry criteria.

 

6.    Qualifications & Competencies:

 

Education & Experience:

 

o    Postgraduate qualification in Theology, Ministry, or a related field (PhD preferred but not essential).

 

o    At least 5 years of experience in ministry formation, theological education, or church leadership.

 

o    Strong understanding of Methodist ecclesiology, spirituality, and ministry practices, particularly in Aotearoa New Zealand or the broader Pacific context.

 

o    Experience in teaching at a theological college or equivalent institution.

 

 Skills & Attributes:

o    A deep commitment to the Church’s mission and ministry formation for both lay and ordained contexts.

 

o    Proven experience in pastoral mentoring, spiritual direction, and guiding students through personal and vocational discernment.

 

o    Strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Bicultural Partnership, with the ability to integrate these into the educational process.

 

o    Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple program components simultaneously.

 

o    Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with faculty, students, and external partners.

 

Working Relationships:

 

Internal: Principal and faculty at Trinity Theological College, administration staff, ministry formation students.

 

External: Connexional bodies (e.g., Methodist Church of New Zealand), local and national church leaders, partner institutions, and community organizations.

 

Terms & Conditions:

 

o    Full-time, 2-year fixed term contract with the possibility of renewal based on performance and institutional needs.

 

o    Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience (and based on the Methodist Church of New Zealand stipend if ordained).

 

o    Occasional travel is required for retreats, conferences, and external engagements.

 

If you are passionate about ministry formation, theological education, and leadership development, and have the experience and vision to support students in their journey, we encourage you to apply

 

Application Process:

To apply for the position, please submit the following:

• Cover Letter outlining your interest in the role and your relevant experience.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing your qualifications, professional experience, and any relevant achievements.

• Three Professional References with contact information. Applications should be sent to: Barbara Maile

Application Deadline: 31st October 2024

For further information about this position, please contact the Principal's Office.

We look forward to receiving your application!