Spiritual Care Advisor (Youth and Families Chaplain)

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description

POSITION PURPOSE SUMMARY:

This position exists to equip leaders, engage families, and develop sustainable discipleship pathways for children, youth, and their caregivers. The role focuses on intergenerational discipleship, community outreach, leadership development, and strategic program coordination. Emphasis is placed on building bridges between church and home, creating a culture where faith is practiced beyond Sunday gatherings.

Accountabilities

Leadership Development & Volunteer Support

• Recruit, train, and mentor volunteers in children’s, youth, and family ministries.
• Provide ongoing encouragement, resources, and leadership support.
• Ensure all volunteers complete required screening, police checks, and abuse prevention training in line with safe church policies.
• Promote a healthy, supportive volunteer culture through supervision and appreciation efforts.
  
  

Ministry Development & Program Implementation

• Develop, implement, and maintain discipleship and outreach programs for ages 5–17, including Sunday school, midweek groups, and seasonal events.
• Encourage and mentor youth in faith, within appropriate boundaries, to foster deepening relationships with Christ.
• Integrate youth into appropriate forms of active ministry in the church.
• Strategically plan and evaluate outreach programs to grow Kingston Citadel’s family and youth engagement.
• Actively promote and participate in regional and divisional youth events and summer camps.
  
  

Family Support & Faith Formation

• Equip parents and caregivers to engage in spiritual practices at home (e.g., prayer, service, shared meals, spiritual conversations).
• Provide relational and pastoral support to families, respecting a variety of backgrounds and maturity levels.
• Establish regular touchpoints between home and church to enhance family discipleship.
  
  

Community Engagement & Outreach

• Collaborate with the community and family services team to connect with families from the broader community.
• Provide leadership and coordination for outreach and evangelistic events that include children and families.
• Follow up with families after special programs or camp to foster relationships and integrate them into corps life.
• Engage with local partners and networks that support child, youth, and family development.
  
  

Administration & Strategic Coordination

• Maintain volunteer schedules, program documentation, and statistical records.
• Submit regular attendance reports and ministry updates to divisional leadership.
• Work alongside corps officers and the leadership team to ensure alignment of family ministry with the overall vision and direction of the corps.
• Ensure all ministry activity is conducted in compliance with salvation army risk management and privacy policies.
  
  

Managerial/Technical Responsibilities

• This position reports directly to the corps officers or designate
• The incumbent will oversee and coordinate the work of volunteers.
  
  

Financial And Material Management

• May assist with budgeting for ministry activities and/or coordinate small-scale fundraising in support of programs.
• Responsible for oversight and care of relevant program resources
  
  

Working Conditions

• This is a temporary part-time position based on 30 hours per week.
• Some flexibility in scheduling is required, for youth activities, family events, or special programs.
• The 30 hours per week will typically be fulfilled during regular business hours and based out of the church office. However, scheduling will be determined in consultation with the corps officers, with the understanding that flexibility is required to accommodate programming needs, including Sunday morning services and other church-related activities outside of standard office hours.
  
  

Normal hours of work: The working conditions are such that in order to meet the operational needs of the job, flexibility in scheduling is required as it relates to hours of work and work schedule. Includes a ½-hour unpaid meal break where applicable. Schedule will include evenings and weekends with the expectation of attendance and participation on Sunday mornings at Kingston Community Church.

Education, Experience And Qualifications

Education, Qualifications and Certifications:

• Minimum of a 3-year diploma or degree in a related field, or equivalent body of knowledge through ministry experience.
• Degree or coursework in biblical/theological studies is an asset.
• Willing to support and understand the doctrine and positional statements of The Salvation Army, as well as to the ministry of The Salvation Kingston Citadel Corps (church)
• Valid Ontario class “G” driver’s license; personal vehicle and insurance may be required.
  
  

Experience And Knowledge Requirements

• At least two years of successful experience working with youth, children, or families in a ministry or nonprofit context.
• Familiarity with intergenerational ministry principles and faith formation practices.
• Knowledge of spiritual care and/or pastoral counselling and its application within the context of the Ministry Unit.
• Understands and adheres to the mission of The Salvation Army Church with a biblical approach to leadership.
• Works closely with pastors and leadership team to ensure unity in vision messaging.
  
  

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Skills And Capabilities

• Passion for the spiritual development of children and youth, and the role of families in discipleship.
• Strong spiritual maturity, relational integrity, and wise discernment.
• Able to inspire, equip, and mobilize others
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to maintain information in confidence and exercise good judgement.
• Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills.
• Creative and adaptable in designing programs that meet evolving needs.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft office suite and digital tools for worship/media (e.g., easy worship).
• Demonstrates confidentiality, integrity, and respect in all interactions.
• Commitment to continual growth, training, and spiritual formation.
• Represent the organization in a positive, professional and engaging manner.
• Must comply with all Salvation Army policies, procedures and associated legislation.
• Treat the property of The Salvation Army with due care and caution.
• Adaptability: Demonstrate a willingness to be flexible, versatile and/or tolerant in a changing work environment while maintaining effectiveness and efficiency.
• Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures.
• Ability and willingness to undergo applicable screening and background checks successfully that are satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion (ie., The Salvation Army Abuse Registry) and provide an original copy of a Background Check with vulnerable sector screening.
• Willingness to develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities.
  
  

Compensation

The target hiring range for this position is $21.83 to $27.29 with a maximum of $32.75.

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [email protected] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.