Associate Pastor

Job Summary

Monterey Church Virginia (MCVA) is a small, non-denominational church located in Warrenton, VA seeking an Associate Pastor who will support the Senior Pastor, oversee staff and volunteers, and lead and encourage the Body to grow as disciples of Christ.

MCVA is a Bible-teaching, spirit-filled community of Believers. We believe the primary ministry of the Church is the ministry of God’s Word (the Bible), which is synonymous to the ministry and work of the Holy Spirit. “Truth,” “Love,” and “Power” sum up the pure approach God has given us for ministry: ministering the truth of God’s word, with love (and humility), through the power of the Holy Spirit. The ideal candidate for Associate Pastor will understand and embrace Monterey Church’s approach to ministry.

Scope of Responsibilities:

The Associate Pastor leverages their gifts, talents and abilities to lead, assist, and support the mission, vision, and purpose of the Church under the leadership and direction of the Senior Pastor. This support includes a range of ministerial, supervisory, and administrative functions.

Leadership/Pastoral Responsibilities  

·      Provide direction and supervision for all other local staff positions

·      Oversee Sunday worship services (leads or delegates all serve team members, security, AV team, etc.)

·      Teach and lead in small and mid-sized groups (e.g., discipleship groups, leadership trainings) 

·      Teach and preach, delivering relevant, Biblical messages periodically (approximately 15 weekends annually) 

·      Provide pastoral care and guidance (e.g., pastoral counseling, hospital visits, arrange premarital counseling, weddings, funerals, grief management, financial counseling, etc.) 

·      Encourage members and attenders to be fully engaged in the church's mission 

·      Attend events outside of the church as a representative of MCVA as appropriate (e.g., Pastor Appreciation Breakfasts)

Ministry Oversight

·      Oversee worship services, Baptisms, Child Dedications, Communion, and other special services in support of the Senior Pastor 

·      Oversee small groups ministries and other ministries within the church 

·      Oversee discipleship through small groups, discipleship ministry and other ministries throughout the church

Administrative

·      Support the Senior Pastor to appropriately manage and oversee the financial, material and human resources of the church, with support of the pastoral leadership team (staff)

·      Meet regularly with the Senior Pastor and perform related duties as assigned by the Senior Pastor 

·      Meet regularly with the Senior Pastor and elders on matters related to ministry within the church

·      Oversee volunteer teams; shepherd, lead, and equip volunteers in fulfilling their roles and the importance of their service to the ministry

Minimum Qualifications

Education, Experience and Abilities

·      Graduation or upcoming graduation from an accredited college or Seminary, with a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in theology, ministry, or the equivalent

·      A postgraduate (master’s or doctoral) degree preferred

·      In addition, five (5) years of relevant ministry experience in a church or parachurch organization (specifically in the areas of pastoral care and counseling preferred) 

·      Meets or is on track to meet all requirements for ordination

·      Ability to teach/preach 

·      Ability to lead, develop and shepherd staff and ability to recruit and develop volunteer leaders 

·      Ability to work and lead effectively within a cross-functional team

·      Ability to prioritize responsibilities 

·      Ability to maintain a flexible schedule as needed 

·      Excellent communication skills, both written and oral 

·      Affirms Monterey Church’s Beliefs, Mission, Vision, and Purpose and leadership requirements. (https://www.montereychurchva.com/core-beliefs)

Foundational Requirements

·      Self-motivated and able to take initiative in identifying and addressing ministry needs

·      Demonstrates Christ-like character and the fruit of the spirit in all interactions with congregants, volunteers and staff 

·      Heart to disciple and care for people 

·      Ability to exercise Biblical wisdom, sound judgment, and spiritual discernment regarding matters of significance within the church 

·      If this candidate is married, it is imperative that his wife be in agreement with MCVA’s beliefs and supportive of his calling

If you believe you may be the right candidate for Monterey Church, please provide us with a video or audio sample of your preaching, as well as your resume, with a cover letter (500 words) responding to these questions (please do not utilize AI):

1.    What is your philosophy of ministry, and how would you apply it to your work as an Associate Pastor? Please include how you balance preaching, pastoral care, discipleship, and outreach in your ministry.

2.    Ministry often involves navigating complex interpersonal and spiritual challenges. Share a time when you faced a difficult situation in ministry or church life, how you handled it, and what you learned from the experience that would help you in your role as an Associate Pastor.

3.    How do you anticipate growing personally and spiritually in the role of Associate Pastor? What specific areas of your character or ministry skills would you like to develop further, and how do you plan to achieve that growth?

4.    How have you learned to balance your pastoral responsibilities with your own well-being, or your commitment to your family?