Solo Pastor

Solo Pastor (Installed) – Fort King Presbyterian Church (PCUSA)

Location: Ocala, Florida

Position Type: Full-Time

Church Overview & Mission

Fort King Presbyterian Church is a welcoming and inclusive congregation in Ocala with a rich history rooted in justice, compassion, and community engagement. For over 60 years, we have sought to embody Christ’s call to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8).

As a Matthew 25 congregation, we are committed to building a loving, faith-filled community where all people—regardless of age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, background, or ability—are fully welcomed and embraced. We strive to nurture spiritual growth, foster meaningful relationships, and actively serve our neighbors through outreach, partnerships, and advocacy.

Position Summary

We are seeking a compassionate, spiritually grounded, and forward-thinking Solo Pastor to lead our congregation in worship, mission, and community life. This pastor will serve as a spiritual leader, teacher, and collaborator—guiding a multigenerational congregation while helping us grow into a more diverse and engaged church.

Key Responsibilities

Worship & Spiritual Leadership

• Prepare and deliver engaging, theologically grounded sermons
• Lead meaningful, creative worship and administer sacraments
• Foster a vibrant and inclusive spiritual life within the congregation

Pastoral Care

• Provide compassionate care through visitation (homes, hospitals, care facilities)
• Offer support during life transitions, crises, and celebrations
• Build authentic relationships with members and visitors

Teaching & Faith Formation

• Lead and support Christian education for all ages
• Develop and facilitate Bible studies and faith discussions relevant to today’s world
• Encourage spiritual growth and discipleship across generations

Leadership & Administration

• Serve as Head of Staff, supervising church staff and supporting volunteers
• Moderate Session and collaborate with ministry teams
• Provide visioning, strategic leadership, and organizational guidance
• Assist with planning, budgeting, and church operations

Community Engagement & Outreach

• Build relationships with local organizations and leaders
• Support and expand mission partnerships and outreach initiatives
• Engage underrepresented groups, including younger families and diverse populations

Communication & Technology

• Oversee and contribute to church communications (digital, print, and social media)
• Utilize technology to enhance worship, outreach, and connection

Qualifications & Requirements

Required:

• Open to a first call/early-career pastor
• Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) training
• Strong preaching, teaching, and pastoral care abilities
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to inclusivity, justice, and community engagement

Preferred Skills & Gifts:

• Warm, approachable, and authentic leadership style
• Organizational and administrative competence
• Ability to inspire, empower, and collaborate with volunteers and leaders
• Comfort with technology, social media, and hybrid ministry models
• Sense of humor and genuine love for people

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $62,000
• Housing: Housing allowance provided
• Benefits: Includes standard benefits in accordance with PC(USA) guidelines (details available upon request)

Church Culture & What Makes Us Unique

Fort King Presbyterian Church is a close-knit, welcoming congregation with an average worship attendance of 75–80 and a strong commitment to relational ministry. While our current membership is primarily older adults, we are actively seeking to grow into a more intergenerational and diverse community.

What sets us apart:

• A deeply held commitment to inclusion and belonging
• Active participation in justice-focused and community-based ministry
• A culture of open dialogue, curiosity, and lifelong learning
• Strong lay leadership and engaged volunteers
• Creative programs like Crossroads classes and community arts initiatives

We are a church that values authenticity, compassion, and collaboration. We are looking for a pastor who will walk alongside us—encouraging growth, deepening faith, and helping us live out Christ’s love in meaningful and transformative ways.

Fort King Presbyterian Church is a welcoming and inclusive congregation in Ocala with a rich history rooted in justice, compassion, and community engagement. For over 60 years, we have sought to embody Christ’s call to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8).

As a Matthew 25 congregation, we are committed to building a loving, faith-filled community where all people—regardless of age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, background, or ability—are fully welcomed and embraced. We strive to nurture spiritual growth, foster meaningful relationships, and actively serve our neighbors through outreach, partnerships, and advocacy.