Job Overview

Songtan Central Baptist Church is seeking a full time Pastor to join its council of elders in leading a multigenerational, multicultural English language ministry in Songtan, South Korea. This is a unique position that requires a commitment to move overseas and work cross-culturally alongside lay elders and a Korean pastoral staff to reach English-speaking expats and military service members. We aim to fill this position quickly; please apply with sincere and well-considered interest.

Job Description

Candidate Role and Expectations: The candidate will join our council of elders to lead an English-speaking congregation through worship, teaching, pastoral care, preaching, and administration. He should be a strong leader and willing ministry partner with a high view of Scripture, experienced in leading both traditional and contemporary worship services, and an effective organizer and administrator of church programs. Collaboration with the Korean staff of the church is essential. SCBC adheres to the Biblical qualifications for church leaders as outlined in Scripture, including 1-2 Timothy, Luke 4:16-21, 1 Peter 5:1-4, and Titus 1.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee the spiritual life and ministry of the English congregation as part of the Council of Elders.
• Collaborate with the Council of Elders and Leadership Team on decisions concerning the English Ministry.
• Equip, educate, and edify the church through preaching, prayer, and teaching.
• Provide pastoral care, including counseling, visiting the sick, conducting funerals, and performing baptisms, communion, and weddings.
• Partner in the teaching and vision ministry for the English congregation.
• Collaborate with congregation members to identify their spiritual needs.
• Play a key role in designing and implementing programs to fulfill church needs.
• Be accountable to the Lord, fellow Elders, Korean pastors, and the congregation.
• Participate in the broader community life of SCBC.
• Greet and follow up with church visitors.
• Uphold the Church's values, vision, and doctrinal beliefs.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Council of Elders and Leadership Team.

Required Qualifications:

• Ordained by an ecclesiastical body that is theologically consistent with the SBC's 2000 Baptist Faith & Message.
• Bachelor's degree in Religious Studies, Theology, or related fields.
• 4+ years of ministry experience.
• Ability to work as part of a team.

Highly Desired:

• Master's degree from a Baptist Seminary, or 50% completion toward completion of a Master's degree from a Baptist Seminary with intention to complete.
• International & multicultural experience.
• Experience working with an elder board and church leadership team.
• Willingness to learn Korean.
• Counseling experience.
• Experience with church administration.

Compensation Package:

Annual salary and benefits package based on qualifications and experience.

Congregation Profile:

The English ministry of Songtan Central Baptist Church (SCBC) is an Elder-led, Southern Baptist congregation located in the greater Pyeongtaek city district of South Korea, approximately one hour south of Seoul. Our church serves a diverse and dynamic English-speaking community, including a significant number of U.S. military-affiliated individuals and families, as well as international residents from various backgrounds. Below are key aspects of our congregation and community:

Community Served:

• Military Population: SCBC serves a large U.S. military community, including over 50,000 soldiers, airmen, sailors, marines, Department of Defense civilians, and contractors stationed at USAG Humphreys and Osan Air Base. This provides a unique ministry opportunity to support and minister to those who serve their country.
• Educational Institutions: The church community includes teachers, faculty, and students from a nearby International Christian School, fostering a strong educational and family-oriented atmosphere.
• Expats and English Teachers: SCBC is home to many English teachers, students, and workers from various countries, contributing to the multicultural and multilingual fabric of our congregation.

Church History and Growth:

• Foundation and Growth: The English ministry was founded in 1991 as part of the larger body of SCBC, a Korean Baptist Church with over 1,500 members. Since its inception, the English ministry has grown significantly, now averaging over 150 attendees at Sunday services.
• Affiliation: SCBC is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) through the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention (HPBC), ensuring a strong connection to Baptist beliefs and practices.

Values and Practices:

• Doctrinal Beliefs: Our church adheres to the Southern Baptist Convention's 2000 Baptist Faith & Message, emphasizing a high view of scripture, prayer, and corporate worship.
• Preaching and Teaching: We prioritize the teaching of God's word through expository preaching, which helps to educate and spiritually edify our members.
• Community Life: SCBC fosters a family atmosphere, encouraging strong interpersonal relationships and mutual support among members. We live out our faith through Small Groups, which provide opportunities for deeper fellowship, study, and prayer.

Mission and Outreach:

• Local and Global Missions: The church is actively involved in both local and global missions, seeking to spread the Gospel and serve those in need. Our members are passionate about engaging with and supporting various mission projects and initiatives.
• Integration with Korean Ministry: As part of a larger Korean church, the English ministry works closely with Korean pastoral staff and members, promoting a unified and cooperative approach to ministry.