Lead Pastor

Position Overview Position Title: Lead Pastor Employment Type: Full-time, salaried with benefits Location: San Diego, CA The Lead Pastor serves as the primary spiritual leader of Canyon Springs Church, called by God and affirmed by the congregation to provide visionary, biblical, and pastoral leadership. In alignment with the values of the Evangelical Covenant Church, the pastor faithfully preaches and teaches the whole counsel of God, equips disciples for everyday ministry, shepherds the congregation with care, fosters unity, and guides the church in living out its mission locally and globally. The Lead Pastor reports to and works collaboratively with the Elder Board, and supervises staff and key lay leaders, honoring our congregational form of governance while exercising spiritual leadership grounded in Scripture, humility, and love. Evangelical Covenant Church affirmations available at Canyon Springs Church website: Primary Responsibilities Preaching and Teaching Prepare and deliver biblically faithful, engaging, and culturally relevant sermons. Proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ with clarity and grace. Oversee the church’s teaching and discipleship ministries to help people grow in faith. Worship Leadership Collaborate with worship leaders to cultivate vibrant Christ-centered worship gatherings that honor God and draw people into meaningful participation. Administer baptism and communion in accordance with ECC practice. Pastoral Care and Shepherding Officiate baptisms, weddings, and memorials; provide spiritual guidance, prayer, visitation, and support during life’s joys and challenges. Strengthen care systems such as small groups, prayer teams, and care ministries. Foster a culture of compassion, belonging, and connection. Leadership Development Recruit, equip, and mentor staff and volunteer leaders. Promote healthy teamwork, spiritual formation, and staff accountability. Vision, Strategy and Administration Work with the Elder Board to define and implement a spiritual vision for the church. Provide financial accountability and operational oversight of the Church’s budget and staff. Follow ECC guidelines, Church bylaws and seek congregational input on decisions. Personal and Spiritual Health Maintain a vibrant personal walk with Christ through prayer, Scripture, and Sabbath. Pursue ongoing growth, learning, and spiritual formation. Participate in ECC gatherings and continuing education opportunities. Qualifications Spiritual Character A committed follower of Jesus with a clear call to pastoral ministry. Christ-like character marked by integrity, humility, and compassion. Deep commitment to the authority of Scripture and ECC distinctive(s). Education, Experience & Credentialing Currently hold or are in pursuit of an ordainable Master’s degree (i.e., MDiv). Additional training or specialized education is welcomed. Ordained to Word and Sacrament in the Evangelical Covenant Church (or willing to pursue ECC credentialing and ordination promptly). At least 5 years of comprehensive pastoral experience, including preaching and leadership. Skills & Strengths Strong focus on Youth & Children’s Ministries Relational, present and engaged pastor Strong communication, biblical teaching and discipleship Community engagement and outreach Growth, stability and long‑term commitment Leadership strength and administrative competence Compensation and Benefits Competitive salary based on experience and alignment with our pastoral profile Housing assistance negotiable Health and retirement benefits #J-18808-Ljbffr