Parish Administrative Assistant

Church of the Messiah

Church of the Messiah is a welcoming Episcopal congregation nestled in the heart of Rhinebeck, New York, in the scenic Hudson Valley. We are a community grounded in the Anglican tradition — one that embraces liturgical worship, open inquiry, and a deep commitment to service in our local community and beyond.

We are a small but growing parish experiencing a meaningful season of renewal. With the arrival of our new Rector, we are investing in the people and structures that will help our congregation flourish. Our parishioners come from all walks of life, united by a spirit of hospitality, justice, and faith. We believe the church is called to be a place of belonging for all.

Overview

The Parish Administrative Assistant serves as the welcoming face and organizational backbone of our church office. Reporting directly to the Rector, this part-time role is essential to the smooth day-to-day operations of the parish — ensuring that members, visitors, and ministry teams are supported with warmth, professionalism, and care.

This is a part-time position, anticipated at approximately 20 hours per week. Office hours are flexible, with mornings preferred. Some on-site presence at the church office in Rhinebeck is required; occasional weekend availability for special services or events may be needed.

Key Responsibilities

Office & Communications Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for parish inquiries via phone, email, and in-person visits
• Manage the church calendar, scheduling services, meetings, and facility use
• Prepare and distribute the weekly bulletin, parish newsletter, and regular email communications
• Maintain the parish website and social media presence with current information and announcements

Rector & Vestry Support

• Provide administrative support to the Rector, including scheduling, correspondence, and meeting preparation
• Assist with Vestry meeting logistics, including preparing agendas, packets, and minutes
• Support the coordination of pastoral care outreach as directed by the Rector

Records & Finances

• Maintain accurate membership records, including baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, and the plotting of the memorial garden
• Process and record weekly offerings and donations; coordinate with the Treasurer and Finance Committee
• Manage supply ordering and vendor relationships for the church office

Ministry & Event Support

• Support the coordination of parish events, programs, and ministry activities
• Assist with volunteer scheduling and communication for liturgical and service ministries
• Help facilitate the onboarding of new members and guests

Qualification and Skills

Required

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; warm, professional interpersonal style
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office or Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar)
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and maintain confidentiality
• Experience with email platforms and basic website/social media management
• Comfort working in a faith-based environment and interacting with diverse parishioners

Preferred

• Prior administrative experience in a church, nonprofit, or community organization
• Familiarity with Episcopal or Anglican parish life and liturgical seasons preferred
• Basic bookkeeping or financial record-keeping experience

Compensation

This position pays $20–$25 per hour, depending on experience. Church of the Messiah is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates of all backgrounds. Above all, we are seeking someone who will be a welcoming presence — someone who treats every person with dignity, and who brings resourcefulness, adaptability, and a genuine eagerness to learn and grow with our parish.

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person