Zion United Church of Christ Baroda, Michigan

JobDescription:

Zion United Church of Christ is seeking a part-time pastor to provide spiritual leadership and guidance to our congregation. The primary focus of this role will be on delivering biblically- centered messages and providing pastoral care, with an emphasis on spiritual growth and community building. The ideal candidate will be a deeply committed individual with a strong connection to the faith, who can deliver engaging, thought-provoking sermons, connect with congregants on a personal level, and nurture the spiritual growth of the community through leading worship services.

Responsibilities:

1. SpiritualLeadershipand Pastoral Care:
   • Deliver engaging, Bible-based sermons that incorporate personal examples and occasionally humor.
   • Provide spiritual guidance and support to individuals and families.
   • Foster a warm, caring, and empathetic environment within the church.
2. Sacramental and Rites Leadership:
   • Perform weddings, funerals, baptisms, confirmation classes and other special services in accordance with church doctrine and practices.

3. Worship Services:

1. • Lead worship services, ensuring to include key elements such as music, scripture readings, Lord's Prayer, Apostles Creed and communion.
   • Lead special services such as Lent, Advent, German Candlelight Christmas Eve service, etc.

4. Community Engagement:

1. • Actively participate in community outreach and seek to grow the congregation.
   • Connect with young people and all members of the congregation.

Qualifications:

• A clear spiritual calling and a strong foundation in the Bible.
• Experience in preaching and pastoral care.
• Ability to connect with people through relatable speech, warmth, and sincerity.
• Flexibility and adaptability to the changing needs of the congregation.

Preferred:

• Comfortable in a rural church setting

Routine Activities:

1. Write a brief monthly article for the Chimes newsletter.
2. Write a report for the yearly annual report.
3. Attend annual spring and fall congregational meetings.
4. Respond to email and phone messages in a timely manner.
5. Maintain regular and specific office hours.

Accountability:

Accountable to the congregation through the Church Council

Evaluation:

Using the job description as a guide, performance reviews will be conducted semi-annually by the Church Council during the first two years of service and annually from then on. The review will be presented in narrative form addressing strengths and areas of improvement.