Pastor

Job Description: Pastor (Lead/Senior) About First Congregational Church of Eaton Rapids First Congregational Church of Eaton Rapids seeks a part-time pastor to serve as the spiritual leader of our congregation. The pastor will guide the church in fulfilling its vision of knowing Jesus and making Jesus known. The church was established in 1843 and has remained relatively unchanged since 1877, with beautiful stained‑glass windows and a historic altar. Modern additions to the main chapel include a gathering place, Sunday School rooms, and an attached activities building. Eaton Rapids is a picturesque small town of approximately 5,200 people and offers high quality living with unique entertainment and recreation opportunities. It is known as the “Island City” as its entire downtown business district is on an island surrounded by two rivers. It is located between Lansing and Jackson, where you can find abundant shopping, fine dining, vibrant nightlife, theater and cultural activities, as well as collegiate, minor‑league and Michigan International Speedway sporting events. Key Responsibilities Deliver biblically sound, relevant, and inspiring weekly messages Provide spiritual leadership and vision for the church’s mission and ministries Plan and oversee special services such as Maundy Thursday and Christmas Eve, as well as communion, baptisms, and membership installation Offer pastoral care of our members and community through counseling, visitation and prayer Officiate weddings and funerals Partner with leadership teams to set strategic goals, including regular communication to boards and committees Represent the church in the community and foster outreach activities Grow the church by offering membership classes for potential new members The candidate will work in cooperation with our Diaconate Board to oversee worship services, ensuring they are Christ‑centered and welcoming. Qualifications Relevant experience and education in pastoral leadership, ministry, theology or related fields. Seminary students and professors will be considered Strong preaching and teaching skills, grounded in scripture and relevant to everyday life A deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a life that reflects biblical values A shepherd’s heart – compassionate, approachable, and committed to walking alongside people in all seasons of life Ability to lead with humility, vision, and collaboration A heart for discipleship and community engagement Experience with youth programs and initiatives We are an equal opportunity church and welcome candidates from all backgrounds who share our faith and mission. Accountability Reports to and is accountable to the church leadership, which includes the moderator and chairpersons of the Deaconate and Trustee Boards. Receives regular feedback through evaluations and congregational input. Salary $30,000‑$35,000 commensurate with experience. Mission Statement We are an inclusive church, open to all. We consider it our privilege and committed responsibility to: Encourage members in the sharing of worship to God, making His will dominant in our lives so we can fulfill the commitments made in the Church covenant which we accept upon becoming members. Provide opportunities for personal growth and development for all who seek further understanding of the bible. To use our spiritual gifts to build up each other in the faith and way of our Lord Jesus Christ. Maintain a concern and commitment for the youth of our congregation to develop a personal spiritual relationship with Jesus Christ. Go forth in the community and beyond, sharing the Gospel of light in a dark world. We will minister to the needs of others whenever and however we can offer assistance. #J-18808-Ljbffr