Senior Pastor | First Baptist Church

Senior Pastor Position at First Baptist Church of Mattoon, IL

First Baptist Church of Mattoon, IL is seeking a Senior Pastor to provide spiritual leadership, biblical preaching, pastoral care, and vision for a multigenerational congregation. Founded in 1863, the church is experiencing fresh momentum, with nearly 400 in weekly worship, growing participation from young families, and an increase in baptisms. Guided by its mission to "Come. Grow. Go.", the church is committed to reaching Mattoon and beyond with the gospel of Jesus Christ. First Baptist Church is debt-free, operates with an annual budget of $775,381, and offers two weekend services with a blended worship style. Its modern campus includes the new Kids Kingdom indoor play space.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preaching & Teaching: Deliver biblically faithful, Christ-centered sermons and teaching that encourages spiritual growth and discipleship.
• Pastoral Care: Provide prayer, counsel, encouragement, and care during illness, grief, hospitalization, and other significant life circumstances.
• Spiritual Leadership: Lead the church in its mission and vision while fostering prayer, worship, evangelism, discipleship, and service.
• Vision & Leadership Development: Establish ministry priorities and goals, evaluate ministries, and identify opportunities for outreach and growth.
• Staff Leadership: Provide direction, encouragement, accountability, and evaluation for pastoral and ministry staff.
• Equipping the Church: Help members use their spiritual gifts and develop future ministry leaders.
• Pastoral Responsibilities: Conduct weddings, funerals, baptisms, communion, and other pastoral functions.

The Senior Pastor will work collaboratively within the church's governance structure and report to the Church Council. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Biblically faithful preaching and teaching
• Pastoral care and counseling
• Vision casting and strategic leadership
• Staff leadership and team building
• Community outreach, evangelism, and discipleship
• Strong communication and relational skills
• Administrative competency and collaborative leadership
• Comfort with modern technology and social media, or a willingness to learn

The church desires someone who is honest, trustworthy, approachable, and engaging - a people person who relates well across generations, leads with wisdom, and has a healthy sense of humor.

Compensation & Benefits: Salary: $80,000–$105,000 (Final salary will be determined based on experience, education, qualifications, and overall fit for the position. Benefits provided upon request.)