Pastoral Care & Assimilation Associate

Pastoral Care & Assimilation Associate
Reports To: Pastoral Care Pastor
Employment Status: Full-time
Ministry Area: Pastoral Care

Position Summary
The Pastoral Care & Assimilation Associate supports the spiritual health of the congregation by providing pastoral care and helping people connect into the life of the church. This role focuses on shepherding individuals and families through seasons of need while guiding newcomers and attenders toward meaningful relationships, church membership, and discipleship within a Baptist church context. The associate works closely with pastors, staff, and volunteers to ensure every person feels known, cared for, and encouraged to grow in Christ.

Key Responsibilities:
Pastoral Care
Assist pastors in providing pastoral care, prayer, and spiritual encouragement to church members and attenders
Conduct hospital visits, home visits, and follow-up care as appropriate
Provide support during times of crisis, grief, illness, and major life events
Participate in care-related services such as funerals, memorials, and prayer gatherings as needed
Maintain appropriate confidentiality and pastoral sensitivity in all care situations

Assimilation & Connection
Oversee and improve systems that help guests and new attenders connect into the church
Follow up with first-time guests, new members, and those expressing interest in the church
Coordinate membership processes, new member classes, and baptism preparation
Help individuals identify next steps such as small groups, serving opportunities, and discipleship pathways
Track assimilation metrics and ensure timely, personal follow-up

Volunteer & Team Leadership
Recruit, train, and lead volunteers who serve in care and assimilation ministries
Equip care teams (e.g., prayer teams, visitation teams, benevolence helpers) with clear processes and support
Develop leaders who can provide ongoing pastoral care under staff guidance

Collaboration & Administration
Work closely with pastoral staff, ministry leaders, and administrative teams
Participate in staff meetings, planning meetings, and ministry strategy discussions
Assist with church-wide events that emphasize connection and community

Qualifications:
Spiritual & Character Qualifications
A committed follower of Jesus Christ with a growing personal faith
Agreement with the church’s statement of faith and Baptist doctrine
Active member of First Baptist Church Opelika
Demonstrates compassion, discretion, emotional maturity, and a shepherd’s heart

Ministry & Professional Qualifications
Experience in pastoral care, discipleship, counseling, or church ministry
Strong interpersonal, listening, and communication skills
Ability to minister with empathy while providing biblical encouragement
Organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple care needs
Comfort working with church management systems (Touchpoint) and basic administrative tools

Preferred Experience
Formal theological or ministry training
Previous experience serving on a church staff or in a volunteer pastoral role
Experience leading volunteers or small groups

Working Conditions
Flexible schedule including some evenings and weekends
Availability for emergency or urgent pastoral care situations as needed

To apply for this job email your details to [email protected]