Solo Pastor

Position Title: Solo Pastor

Position Duration: Settled – a called position for longer-term ministry in which the minister moves church membership to the congregation and moves standing to related association.

Compensation Level: Full Time

Total support package meet conference compensation guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Preparation and leadership of Sunday worship including scripture study, crafting of liturgy and bulletin, planning of music in coordination with music staff.

• Administer the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion in accordance with United Church of Christ theology and practice.

• Faith formation and vitality through prayer, Bible study, service, identifying helpful resources and opportunities; visitation for sick and shut-ins; pastoral care collaboration with lay people

• Provide leadership development by collaborating with lay leaders to design and strengthen ministries and programs, participating in meetings, and offering guidance and support to church initiatives as needed.

• Lead community engagement by representing the church as an ambassador of God’s love through worship, pastoral services (weddings, funerals, etc), and relationships with local organizations.

• Provide administrative leadership in collaboration with elected church leaders, including participation in council and committee meetings as appropriate.

• Strategic planning for current and new directions in ministry

• Participate in wider church activities 

• Supervision of staff

• Counseling, listening, and referral

• Study and prayer to increase faith and improve skills to lead, teach, & preach effectively

• Reaches out to inactive members and works at bringing new members into the church

• Support the youth group through visible pastoral presence, including occasional short messages or activities that encourage faith development and connection.

• Lead the confirmation program by teaching confirmation classes and supporting the faith formation of youth preparing for active church membership.

• Support effective communication of the church’s mission and ministries, including appropriate use of technology and digital platforms.

• Provide pastoral leadership in times of change and conflict, fostering healthy communication, mutual respect, and shared discernment.

Qualifications:

The successful candidate must be an ordained minister with the ability to fulfill all pastoral responsibilities of a solo pastor role, including preaching, teaching, pastoral care, leadership, and administration.

• Spiritual: Grounded in scripture and theology; encourages faith development for all ages; inspirational sermons

• Leadership: adaptive, openness to change, patience and trust-building, willingness to learn and grow; engaging with the community beyond the church walls and strengthening outreach including missions

• Communication: Effective oral, written, and digital communication; relevant and engaging preaching

To Apply: