As the primary overseer of Morning Star Baptist Church, the pastor assumes the role of chief under-shepherd, responsible for guiding, nurturing, and providing for the congregation. This individual's foremost duties include conveying the teachings of God, tending to spiritual needs, and offering scriptural guidance for the church. The Senior Pastor holds the pivotal position of spiritual leadership within the church community. Their accountability lies with the Lord and the congregation, requiring them to espouse the gospel and chiefly focus on biblical instruction. In addition, they are tasked with pastoral duties and are entrusted with the oversight and administrative direction of all aspects of congregational care, encompassing both paid and volunteer staff.
Minimum Training and Experience
· A minimum of a bachelor's degree in theology, religious studies, or a related field providing a foundational understanding of biblical texts, Christian doctrine, church history, and moral theology
· 5 years of experience in the ministry or a combination of education and experience.
· Master of Divinity from an accredited theological school or a seminary Preferred Master of Divinity preferred.
· Must be licensed and ordained. (If not ordained, must be ordained within 6 months of
· hire date).
Duties and Responsibilities
· In a regular pulpit ministry, the primary responsibility is to proclaim the Word of God.
· Overseeing pastoral staff and providing direction for church programming.
· Provide leadership and vision for the church, direct plans for ministry and church growth, and develop and refine the church structure based on the Team philosophy of ministry.
· It is essential to motivate, equip, and nurture the church's people through personal example, preaching, teaching God's Word, and spiritual counseling.
· Dedicating substantial time to prayer and Bible study, facilitating contact/visitation of hospitalized or grieving church members, officiating at weddings and funerals, overseeing church discipline, managing conflicts, and seeking reconciliation and unity within the church.
· Participate in evangelism efforts through preaching, giving invitations during worship services, revivals, or other special services, visitations, and other outreach efforts are required.
· Manage finances with integrity to avoid bringing reproach upon the church is crucial.
· Moderate all church business meetings when possible, working with various standing and special committees, leading in observance of the ordinances of the church,
· Establish connections with local, state, and denominational leaders are also part of the responsibilities. It is essential to keep the church informed of denominational developments and represent the church in denominational and civic matters.
Requirements
• Communication skills, both verbally and in writing, to inform, persuade, and comfort congregation members; a pastor's communication skills are also essential to communicate with church staff and the media if necessary
• The ability to maintain confidentiality when working with congregation members is crucial. This trust is essential to better counsel and comfort church members in times of crisis. A Pastor's respect for a congregation member's privacy during and after pastoral counseling is paramount.
• Knowledge of church software to manage church administrative duties
• Project management skills to work with the church administration in a timely manner
• Strong moral character to give an excellent religious example to the congregation