Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) is seeking a dynamic and visionary University Chaplain to lead our spiritual formation efforts and cultivate a Christ-centered campus community. This mission-critical role serves on the Student Development Leadership Team and provides strategic oversight to all spiritual development initiatives, ensuring alignment with the University's mission and strategic plan. Reporting to the Vice President for Student Development, the Chaplain will provide pastoral leadership, oversee chapel programming, and foster a vibrant faith environment that nurtures student spiritual growth. One critical component of this position is discipleship and leading our disciple-making initiatives. Our goal is to have 75% of our students simultaneously practice 3 abiding habits – our version of spiritual disciplines. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate minister to impact the next generation of Christian leaders while serving within the theological framework of the Church of the Nazarene.

Olivet is a distinctly Nazarene institution of higher education and committed to the discipleship of our students within the Wesleyan-holiness tradition. Ideal Student Development team members are committed to the Lordship of Christ, seek personal growth through regular practice of spiritual disciplines, and create learning environments where students are compelled to be more like Christ each day. 

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and manage the Spiritual Development Office, including supervising department professional team, unit budgets, as well as projects related to our strategic plan.
• Oversee chapel programming, including planning and executing engaging worship experiences, speaker selection, and ensuring theological integrity.
• Regularly speak in chapel.
• Lead discipleship initiatives on campus in alignment with our university strategic plan, including developing opportunities for small groups, mentoring, and spiritual growth.
• Coordinate all aspects of Spiritual Development, including:
  • Shalom Project Trips (domestic and international missions and service initiatives).
  • Student Ministries, providing mentorship and support for student-led faith initiatives.
  • Chapel Services, ensuring a diverse and spiritually enriching experience.
• Manage chapel attendance and accountability, ensuring compliance with university policies.
• Serve as a pastoral presence for the entire campus community, offering spiritual guidance, support, and care to students, faculty, and staff.
• Partner with campus leaders, faculty, and student organizations to foster a holistic, faith-integrated campus experience.
• Represent ONU and its spiritual life programs to prospective students, families, and external stakeholders including District Superintendents and Senior Pastors of the Church of the Nazarene.
• Serve as a member of the Student Life Leadership Team and other university councils and committees as assigned.
• Assist in the planning and coordination of formal campus life opportunities (e.g., Orientation JumpStart Homecoming, Baccalaureate).
• Keep regular office hours, maintaining a high level of visibility and accessibility.

EDUCATION

Master’s degree required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Located on the main campus of Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, in the Ludwig Student Center.

12-month Exempt, full-time staff.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

Starting salary is $70,000/year, and will be based on education and experience.

1. A lifestyle in agreement with the ONU Statement of Mission, Faith, and Lifestyle Covenant.
2. A passions for teaching and support of Olivet’s mission are essential.
3. Professional practice and/or industry experience are highly desirable.
4. Should be able to articulate the integration of the Christian faith and entrepreneurship practice.

About Olivet Nazarene University

Olivet Nazarene University is an accredited Christian, liberal arts university offering more than 140 areas of undergraduate and graduate study, including the Doctor of Education in ethical leadership. Olivet’s beautiful 275-acre main campus is located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, 45 miles south of Chicago. Additionally, the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies offers online education with offices and meeting spaces throughout Chicagoland. From Oxford to Tokyo, hundreds of Olivet students also experience the global classroom each year through study abroad opportunities, internships and worldwide mission trips.

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