Lead Pastor

The Lead Pastor will provide visionary leadership and spiritual direction for our church body. This role requires a dynamic leader capable of managing growth, developing church staff, expanding community outreach, and fostering a vibrant, inclusive congregation.

• Lead, oversee, develop, empower, and equip the Mercy Road Church NW staff and volunteer teams, in partnership with the Executive Pastor.
• Oversee the worship services and the implementation of the engagement pathway for disciple-making. 
• Embody and diffuse the DNA of Mercy Road Church through the staff, volunteer teams, and congregation.
• Work across the Mercy Road Family of Churches in partnership with the other Lead Pastors, staff and Board of Directors.
• Work across ministry partners and outside organizations to reach new people for Christ.
• Collaborate and facilitate multiple 3rd party relationships

The Lead Pastor reports directly to the Board of Directors of Mercy Road Church Northwest.

Strategic Leadership:

• Articulate and implement a clear, compelling vision for the church’s future, aligning with the Mercy Road Family of Churches mission, vision, and values.
• Embody and diffuse the DNA of Mercy Road Church through the staff, volunteer teams, and congregation.
• Lead the strategic planning process, setting short-term and long-term goals for growth and development in partnership with the Executive Pastor and the Board of Directors.
• Encourage and implement innovative approaches to worship, ministry, and outreach in partnership with the staff team.
• Communicate and participate in fundraising and generosity campaigns in partnership with the Board of Directors

Spiritual Leadership:

• Preaching and Teaching: 
• Prepare and deliver biblically sound, engaging sermons and teachings that inspire and equip the congregation and aligns with the Mercy Road Family of Churches values and beliefs. 
• Preach ~40% of the calendar year.
• Lead and develop the teaching team, along with guest communicators, for the other ~60% of the calendar year.
• Participate in the creative process as it relates to Sunday morning
• Participate in the creation of an annual teaching calendar in conjunction with the teaching team.
• Pastoral Care: 
• Provide pastoral care and counseling, supporting the spiritual well-being of the church community.
• Discipleship: 
• Develop and oversee discipleship programs that foster spiritual growth and maturity.
• Actively participate in the discipleship programs the church offers.

 Personal Responsibilities:

• Maintain God-ordained priorities in your life by putting Jesus Christ first, (if married) your spouse second, (if you have children) your children third, and the ministry fourth.
• Support and champion the overall mission and vision of Mercy Road Church amongst the congregation and in the community at large.
• Be loyal to the vision and staff of Mercy Road Family of Churches and always protect the unity of the Church.
• Invest and invite the lost to know Jesus and join God’s movement through Mercy Road Church.
• Tithe at least 10%

Qualifications:

• Education: Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or equivalent theological education from an accredited seminary.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of pastoral experience, including experience in a growing church setting.
• Skills: Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to manage change and growth effectively.
• Personal Qualities: Deep faith, integrity, humility, and a heart for service.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of connecting with diverse audiences.
• Compassionate and approachable, able to provide support and guidance to individuals and families. 
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire and mobilize staff, volunteers, and congregation members. 

Expectations:

• Fully committed to the Mercy Road Family of Church’s mission, values, and doctrinal beliefs.
• Willing to adapt to changing circumstances and needs within the family of churches and community. Availability for evening and weekend events as needed.
• Engage in ongoing professional and spiritual development.
• The qualifications for LP shall include those listed in Chapter 3 of the first book of Timothy and Chapter 1 of the book of Titus.
• The LP shall affirm his/her agreement with the Statement of Faith of the Church and shall conduct himself/herself in a manner that is consistent therewith. The Lead Pastor must be willing to sign the Leadership Covenant.
• To be present for all Christmas and Holy Week/Easter gatherings, and necessary preparation time prior. 

Benefits for this Full Time, Salaried Role:

• 15 days of Paid Time Off (starting rate, changes based on employee handbook)
• Reimbursement for up to $80/month for gym/well-being expenses.
• Reimbursement for up to $400/month for health insurance 
• 3% retirement match through MMBB
• General sabbatical support (based on the employee handbook)