What is the congregation’s or organization’s vision for ministry? Additionally describe how this vision is lived out.
First Presbyterian Church is a diverse and inclusive community of Christian believers. Our common goal and desire are to take the gospel to the community.
Over the past five years, the church faced major problems: a) financial crisis brought on by rapid decline in member attendance and giving, b) brewing dissension between and among congregants and the pastor, and c) buildings in need of repairs. Facing these challenges, the Session requested and received approval from the Hudson River Presbytery to have a Discernment Team provide guidance. Subsequently, the team recommended separation from the pastor and hiring of a Mediation Team. The Session requested an Administrative Commission, which is still active. Since 2018, worship and ministries have been maintained by guest preachers and the Session respectively.
The congregation and Session formed a taskforce to mitigate the crisis. With spontaneous increase in giving and multiple successful fundraisers, two years later the financial situation has improved and some emergency building repairs were done. We have had reconciliation sessions and continue to work on our interpersonal relationships.
COVID-19 has presented other challenges but we continue with worship, bible studies, prayer groups, and committee meetings through Zoom and online. We remain optimistic and committed to healing with God’s guidance and strong pastoral leadership.
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How do you feel called to reach out to address the emerging needs of your community or constituency?
Our history has demonstrated the importance of the church in the community as a place to celebrate the glory of God, for spiritual renewal, for counsel and support in good times and in challenging times. First Presbyterian Church is guided in its goal to develop a partnership with the community by connecting the teachings of the Bible into all aspects of its community outreach. In its mission, the church understands the importance of recognizing and celebrating the talents and gifts of its congregants and finding a way to bring those talents and gifts forward in order to make a meaningful contribution to the community.
To honor our history and lead by example, the church is seeking to develop several initiatives such as a partnership with local schools, scholarships for youth transitioning to higher education, creating youth programs to assist with tutoring, college prep and social graces. In addition, the church is also interested in developing an adult life skills program focusing on literacy and finances. Furthermore, the church would like to use its building and facilities to provide meeting spaces for community-based programs. First Presbyterian Church seeks a partnership with a pastor who is called to bring their time and talents to assist the church in developing and implementing these initiatives.
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How will this position help you to reach your vision and mission goals?
First Presbyterian Church is seeking a pastor who will collaborate with and support the Session and congregation in charting the goals for the Church’s future and who will hold us accountable for doing what is required in attaining those goals.
New spiritual leadership is essential to assist us in moving forward, guiding us in expansion of ongoing ministries such as Worship and Music, mission and evangelism, while developing a vibrant in-house Christian education ministry. We seek a leader who is passionate and energetic in assisting to create new ministries to serve the congregation and the broader community.
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Provide a description of the characteristics needed by the person who is open to being called to this congregation and or organization.
The Stated Supply Pastor we seek to serve our congregation should be a strong spiritual leader and a dynamic preacher who delivers scripture-based sermons guided by the lectionary, relevant to current affairs and life experiences.
The Pastor assisted by Elders should strive to motivate the congregation towards spiritual growth through bible studies, special services (ex Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, Candlelight for additional compensation) and fellowship. The person should be a collaborator with the ability to foster open dialogue and strong feeling of belonging among members.
We seek a pastoral candidate who has the confidence to delegate responsibilities to others; one who is a strong judge of talent and can assess the strengths and limitations of others.
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What specific tasks, assignments, and program areas will this person have responsibility?
The part-time 20 hour per week Stated Supply Pastor shall perform the following tasks:
A. Preaching: The Pastor shall deliver effective sermons speaking to the people of various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Bible centered and current societal issues and challenges should be presented to give the congregation something to think about and apply to daily living.
B. Pastoral care: Pastor is to provide pastoral care such as visiting, comforting and praying for/with those in need, the poor, the sick, the troubled and the dying.
C. Bible study leader: The pastor will encourage and empower the congregants to develop and maintain strong faith by leading relevant Bible study and prayer groups.
D. Moderator of the Session: The Session is the council of the congregation and the constitution states that the Pastor shall be the moderator and in so doing guide this body in becoming a community of faith, love and witness. The Pastor and the Session shall exercise sound decision making and problem solving guided by the spirit and the will of God.
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