Minister of Communication
An evolution of our staff structure to meet the digital needs of today.
A New Role for Mary van Osten
In recent years, it has become apparent to Church Council that our needs for internal, external, and electronic communication, social media, and an online presence have exceeded what a traditional office administrator or secretary would provide. Consequently, St. Matthew’s Church Council has approved a new title and job description for our staff member, Mary van Osten: Minister of Communication.
The title and description represent an evolution of the Administrative Assistant position and more accurately describes this necessary focus.
Expanded Responsibilities
It is vitally important that the congregation understand the expanded responsibilities. The Minister of Communication will design, edit, coordinate, and consolidate content for all key correspondence, publications, reports, weekly bulletins, monthly Messengers, meeting booklets, and announcements—in both print and digital forms.
In addition, the Minister of Communication will:
- Act as liaison and key contact to the webmaster for weekly and monthly calendar updates.
- Prepare two weekly and all special event emails.
- Work on electronic social media outreach.
- Assist in developing and implementing a comprehensive communication strategy.
- Manage and schedule (in coordination with the AV coordinator) the online streaming of church services and Zoom meetings.
- Review metrics for the website, emails, and weekly YouTube service broadcasts.
Office Hours & Procedures
Established Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
The traditional essential office tasks will be provided to the greatest degree possible within the limits dictated by the communication needs. The Minister of Communication will be able to attend to visitors and members in person, by email, and respond to or redirect calls during established office hours.
- Matters received outside office hours will be handled the next business day during office hours.
- In-service training on software and new technologies may occur, as needed, during Wednesday office hours.
- The updated office hours do not affect the Pastor’s ability to attend to emergencies.
The position will provide administrative support to the Pastor, staff members, and church officers as needed. It will also serve as the point of contact for all external organizations, corporate donors, and other vendors.
The volume of work and production deadlines may affect the Minister of Communication’s ability to accommodate requests from various organizations or committees. As much as possible, requests that are received in a timely manner and do not conflict with the regular work of the Church Office and communication deadlines will be attended to as best able.