Job Overview

First Mennonite Church of Morton, Illinois, seeks a full-time Senior Pastor to serve as the spiritual leader of the congregation. In partnership with the Elder Board and Church Board, the Senior Pastor provides biblical and visionary leadership that is consistent with the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective.

The Senior Pastor's primary calling is to faithfully preach the Word of God, nurture the spiritual health of the congregation, and equip believers for ministry and service. This individual should be a strong preacher and teacher who communicates God's truth clearly and applies it meaningfully to daily life.

The ideal candidate will be relational and approachable, demonstrating warmth, humility, and a genuine love for people of all ages. Experience working with youth and families is highly valued, as the pastor will help strengthen intergenerational ministry and discipleship throughout the church.

Through prayer, teaching, pastoral care, and example, the Senior Pastor shepherds the congregation toward maturity in Christ and leads the church in discerning and fulfilling God's mission.

Job Description

Primary Responsibilities

1. Preaching and Teaching (40%)

• Prepare and deliver biblical, Christ-centered sermons that encourage spiritual growth, obedience, and engagement with God's Word.
• Devote focused time to prayer and the ministry of the Word.
• Plan and coordinate worship services in partnership with worship leaders and the Worship Committee.

• Oversee sermon series development, special services (such as Advent, Easter, baptisms, and communion), and guest speakers.

• Provide and facilitate teaching opportunities such as Bible studies, membership classes, and discipleship groups.
• Equip and mentor others in teaching and communication of Scripture, including youth and family ministries.

1. Worship Leadership (20%)

• Provide theological oversight and direction for all worship services.
• Mentor and support worship leaders, musicians, and readers in their ministry roles.

• Encourage a balanced blend of traditional and contemporary worship expressions that reflect the identity of the congregation.
• Foster a worship environment centered on God's glory and meaningful congregational participation.

1. Leadership and Administration (20%)

• Serve with the Elder Board as a spiritual and visionary leader, guiding the church in fulfilling its mission and goals.

• Collaborate with the Church Board to align ministry vision with stewardship, operations, and facility management.

• Supervise and support the administrative and ministry staff, promoting effective communication and teamwork.

• Oversee church communications, worship schedules, and calendar planning.
• Participate actively in Congregational, Church Board, and Elder Board meetings.
• Administer the ordinances of the church, including baptism and communion.

1. Pastoral Care and Discipleship (15%)

• Provide pastoral care, counseling, and prayer for individuals and families within the congregation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships through an approachable and compassionate presence.
• Visit members who are ill, grieving, or homebound, and oversee ministries that provide care and encouragement.
• Cultivate opportunities for reconciliation and spiritual growth within the church community.
• Equip elders, youth leaders, and lay members for caregiving, discipleship, and evangelistic ministry.
• Officiate weddings, funerals, and other pastoral ceremonies as needed.

1. Community and Denominational Involvement (5%)

• Represent the church and the cause of Christ within the local community and the broader Mennonite fellowship.
• Encourage congregational involvement in outreach, missions, and community service.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with local pastors, ministry partners, and community leaders.
• Support ministry partnerships that reach and disciple youth and families in the Morton area.