Second Pastor Search

These are the notes and video-recap from our recent congregational update as we search for an additional pastor to partner with us in the ministry.

Why we’re searching: 

1. The size of our congregation: We are blessed with enough people that more pastors would benefit the people who already call Discovery their church home.
2. The opportunities: More pastoral staff also tends to attract more opportunities and create a greater capacity for ministry
3. The desire: There’s been a long expressed desire for someone to be called to have hands-on oversight in children and youth ministries. 

In summary: We’re aiming at ministry multiplication 

2 Timothy 2:1-2, “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, ² and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.

What are we searching for? 

This is a search for a biblically qualified elder/pastor/shepherd/overseer (1 Timothy 3:1-7). We want to avoid seeing this person as something less than a biblically qualified pastor.

• Though controversial, it is biblical to say there is actually no such thing as an “associate pastor” or a “youth pastor”. The Bible tells us about two offices in the NT church: Elder (also called pastor/shepherd/overseer) and Deacon. Of course, in one sense, it is no big deal if we identify additional pastoral staff with more specific terms. But, on the other hand, we DO want to consciously recognize this minister as an actual, fully qualified elder in the biblical sense. If we’re going to call him a pastor, he needs to be treated like a biblical pastor. 
• Practically speaking, we want to call a man that both students AND parents can respect and follow. 
• Recognizing his qualifications as a biblically defined elder allows for flexibility as needs change
• This also means we prioritize CHARACTER over CHARISMA. The qualifications for eldership in the NT are indicative of character and spiritual maturity first and foremost. Charisma and credentials are influential in a decision but not the first priority.

How are we searching?
Two Convictions:

1.The Elders will give an account to God for how they shepherded the congregation, especially in matters of raising up other leaders

• 2 Timothy 2:2; 1 Peter 5:1-3
• We see it as our responsibility to lead the search as an acceptance of our biblical responsibilities

2. The congregation is filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:11-16)

• We believe that the Spirit wants to help us through his Spirit-filled people.
• This means there will be formal opportunities for everyone to contribute to the search (surveys, meetings, etc.). But there are also informal opportunities. The elders and other members of the team (Dan Mason, Mary Holdahl, Peg Wittmeier) are all willing to take calls, texts, e-mails or visits if you have any feedback or questions.

Our process:

• We meet on Thursdays for prayer and planning
• We have constructed a packet of vital information for applicants
• We are reviewing and refining the job description. We have a detailed draft and plan to finalize this draft by late September for immediate posting with credible ministry partners.
• We continue to evaluate our process and discuss the logic of each step
• Prayer: We receive daily prayer reminders and make prayer a part of our agenda in each meeting

Survey Handout/Instructions 

Surveys are available by the church office and will be readily available for pick up in our worship service.

Surveys are DUE ON SEPTEMBER 13th. A tray will be made available in our worship area or they can be handed to the office during the week. Surveys can also be e-mailed to you by request.

Lastly, don’t forget why the LORD gave us words. Use the survey as an opportunity to use your words as God intended.

1 Corinthians 14:12, “¹² So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.

Colossians 4:6, “⁶ Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.

For your joy and God’s glory!