Job Overview

The International Evangelical Church, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia has a robust history and diversified ministries among Ethiopians and expatriates. Located on a campus within view of the African Union complex in Addis, IEC has more than 1,500 people from 60 nationalities with a 60% – 70% Ethiopian population in weekly attendance at its worship services and ministries. The primary service is held in English with a smaller service in French. IEC also has branch churches in nearby Debre Zeit.

We are seeking our next Lead Pastor to shepherd the church toward our vision of "Making disciples of all nations for the glory of God."

This position requires partial financial support raising. IEC provides partial support. The ideal start date is summer/fall of 2026.

Job Description

Lead Pastor Responsibilities

General leadership

To give overall pastoral leadership to the church through preaching, counseling, discipleship, leadership development, oversight of ministry staff and mobilizing all members into active ministry.

Preaching

Ensure a preaching ministry of the church that has continuity and is theologically sound and balanced in accordance with the doctrine of the IEC and the broad theological spectrum represented at IEC. The Lead Pastor will be expected to regularly preach Sunday morning messages as well as develop a team of qualified, gifted teachers to share the preaching responsibility.

Counseling

In cooperation with the Congregational Care Ministry provide for the counseling and care-giving ministries of the church through personal counseling or equipping others to carry out this ministry.

Discipleship

Develop ongoing Training and practical opportunities for Members and Attendees of IEC to move through the Discipleship Process defined through the 4 Ms – Meet, Mature, Mobilize, and Multiply.

Leadership Development

Serve IEC in the ongoing development of elders and ministry leaders. This includes identifying and mentoring potential elders, as well as creating opportunities for other existing and potential ministry leaders to grow and develop.

Staff Oversight

Provide oversight to the Staff and Ministry Leaders with the support of the Executive Pastor. This would involve casting an ongoing vision and assisting in ongoing spiritual, personal and ministry growth for the staff.

Mobilizing for Active Ministry

While the whole Board of Elders shares the task of mobilizing all members toward active ministry, the pastor will assist in calling the congregation toward the overall vision of the church and equip- ping leaders to help carry it out.

Ministry Meetings

May attend all ministry meetings.

Other Duties

Meet other needs in the church as requested by the Board of Elders.

Relationships

IEC is governed by the Board of Elders under the leadership of Jesus Christ the Chief Shepherd. The Team is composed of biblically qualified elders who guide the church through consensus decision making. The Lead Pastor is an ex-officio member of the Board of Elders but also serves under their authority.

Lead Pastor Qualifications

Requirements for the position are as follows:

1. Minimum of Masters Degree in theology, Christian Ministry or Divinity.
2. Minimum of 10 years of Pastoral experience with at least 5 years of experience in a senior or executive ministry role.
3. Significant experience on Teaching and Preaching.
4. Must be internationally minded and open to diverse theological perspectives within an evangelical framework.
5. Must have strong fluency in English (speaking, reading and writing) and have significant experience within cross-cultural and/or international settings.
6. The desired candidate must be able to make a full time commitment to the role of Lead Pastor at IEC for a minimum of 5 years.
7. IEC will provide partial financial support, but candidates are expected to also raise a portion of the support needed for their family.