Pastorial Search

WHAT FCC IS LOOKING FOR IN A PASTOR
PREFACE
The following is designed to reveal a picture of what we are looking for in a Senior Pastor. It will be used as a guide; however, we will be open to God’s superintending the process as we identify His choice for FCC. We also understand that each candidate will have strengths and weaknesses, even as Foots Creek chapel has its strengths and weaknesses.

REQUIREMENTS AND CHARACTERISTICS

EDUCATION
A Bible school degree is the minimum requirement. Seminary training is desirable. Successful ministry experience and proven ability could offset some educational requirement.
EXPERIENCE
Ten years of ministry background, with some experience as a Senior Pastor preferred.
BACKGROUND
No preference. Candidate must be able to relate to a mix of people, from both rural and urban backgrounds.
FAMILY
Size of family is not important. The expectation is that the Pastor would be the head of his family and love it as Christ loved the church (Eph. 5:25). His wife would need to be in full support of his ministry. She should serve according to her talents and gifts, just as any member of the congregation. She, too, needs to relate well to people .
ABILITIES AND GIFTS
The candidate selected will be expected to use the giftedness that God has provided. As mentioned above, no one has all the gifts and abilities, but the following ones are required for pastoral success:

Preaching - It is necessary to connect and relate well with the congregation from the pulpit. Must feel confident in the message preached and, through the Word of God, inspire the congregation to action.
Shepherding – Must possess empathy for members and friends of the church and a willingness to address their physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
Relational - It is imperative that the Senior Pastor have people skills that allows the development and maintenance of relationships with a wide variety of people. Must be able to do this without compromising God’s Word and principles.
Leadership - Spiritual and organizational leadership is required to move FCC forward. This leadership needs to be intertwined with the other leaders of the church.
Soul Winning - The entire congregation is challenged to win people to Christ and the Pastor needs to lead by example.
Administration - Not every Pastor feels extremely gifted in this area, but a certain level of competence is required to make sure things run smoothly.

PERSONAL EXPECTATIONS
As the Pastor, there are areas of proficiency that need to be maintained at a high level:

Faithfully maintain a daily devotional time of Bible study and prayer.
Be faithful to the Word of God in preaching and in personal living.
Maintain a good reputation in the community.
Work with the Elders and church board in developing/updating the church’s vision for the future.
Equip the congregation for the work of the ministry.
Work with the Elders and the church board in evaluating church programs and activities and implementing necessary changes.

Love the church and its people, even in their imperfections. Be

the friend it needs while stimulating it to a deeper commitment to
the Lord and His desired ministry for FCC.

Above all, help foster a loving spirit within the church that will attract the community at large.
Avoid hobby horse topics and politics from the pulpit unless the politics intrude into the area of morality and scriptural integrity.
Perform customary duties as determined by the Elders and church board.