Senior Pastor

Independent Methodist

WEEKLY ATTENDANCE: 45

Meet Arcadia Methodist Church

Arcadia Methodist Church, established in 1887 with its current building from 1930 and a 1997 addition including a fellowship hall, upholds original Methodist doctrine and belongs to the Association of Independent Methodists (AIM). Despite weathering many changes in the last few years, the congregation’s strength is evident in their continued ministry to one another and the wider community. Known for their supportive nature, the church fosters strong relationships, drawing newcomers into a valued and connected atmosphere.

The church actively engages with and serves the community. Their Kids in Christ (KIC) program, held on Wednesday nights, is a highly regarded outreach for children, consistently drawing 25-35 kids weekly for music and Bible basics. The handicap-accessible church and fellowship hall is a vital community asset, often hosting events like the local high school prom dinner and also funerals for other local churches needing accessible space. Arcadia Methodist also maintains positive relationships with other congregations and participates in joint services and ministries.

Located in a safe, tight-knit rural town of about 300 residents, the community is characterized by supportive neighbors. It’s a very safe environment for children, who can freely ride bikes. The town has also seen an influx of younger residents in recent years. This warm welcome within the community strongly reinforces the relational focus of Arcadia Methodist Church, making it an inviting place to live and worship.

About the Senior Pastor

The Senior Pastor at Arcadia Methodist Church is a vital presence in a safe, tight-knit rural community. This role centers on nurturing relationships within the congregation and the broader town. Beyond preaching, the pastor provides care and actively builds connections, with success measured by the pastor becoming a respected community leader and the church growing younger. The ideal candidate has a heart for rural areas, relational experience, and qualities like empathy, flexibility, and humor, ready to invest in a genuinely welcoming community.

What you bring

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Senior Pastor:

Education and Experience

• Seminary degree or biblical/theological training 
• 2 or more years of ministry experience
• Willingness to be credentialed with the Association of Independent Methodists

Responsibilities, Skills, and Abilities

• Lead and preach engaging, biblically based sermons and worship services, including administering sacraments like communion and baptism.
• Provide compassionate pastoral care, including visiting members in hospitals, homes, and facilities, and responding to emergencies.
• Maintain a visible and accessible presence in the church office and community.
• Be present at church activities such as the Kids in Christ (KIC) program or with the Mission Team.
• Actively build connections and relationships within the tight-knit community and with other local churches, including participating in the ministerial association.
• Oversee church operations, participate in governance, manage any staff, and report at meetings.
• Lead vision casting and goal setting for the church.
• Needs administrative skills, including being organized, planning services, and potentially holding office hours.
• Possesses strong relational experience and the ability to connect with people across different age groups.
• Handle special services such as funerals and weddings.

Personal Characteristics and Qualifications

• Consider this role in this location a calling, not just a job.
• Has a heart for rural areas and doing ministry in a rural setting.
• Is flexible and able to adapt quickly to changes.
• Is joy-filled and has a sense of humor.
• Empathetic in their listening and in their leadership
• Brings energy and life to each task at hand
• Servant-leadership exemplifies the humility and attitude of Christ. 
• High relational skills and a love for people inside and outside the church.

What it’s like to live in Arcadia, NE

Nestled in the heart of rural Nebraska, Arcadia offers a tranquil and welcoming environment that embodies the best of small-town living. Residents here enjoy a genuine sense of community, where neighbors know and support one another, fostering a close-knit atmosphere often missing in larger urban areas. The pace of life is slower, allowing for a relaxed lifestyle and more time to connect with family and friends. This strong community fabric is a significant draw, providing a secure and friendly backdrop for individuals and families alike.

One of Arcadia’s most appealing aspects is its excellent public school system. The schools are highly rated, with a student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention and a supportive learning environment. This focus on quality education provides a strong foundation for the community’s youth, attracting families seeking a nurturing place to raise children. Beyond academics, the town fosters community involvement, with various local organizations and events that encourage participation and strengthen bonds among residents.

Living in Arcadia also comes with the benefits of a lower cost of living compared to national averages, particularly in housing, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life. The rural setting offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from fishing and hunting to simply enjoying the wide-open spaces of Nebraska. While maintaining its quiet charm, Arcadia still provides essential amenities and convenient access to nearby services, striking a harmonious balance between peaceful rural living and practical modern necessities.