Associate Pastor

PURPOSE: The Associate Pastor – Stated Supply (APSS) is a part-time member of the church staff, who, with the Pastor, offers general pastoral leadership and support to the congregation. The APSS is called by the Session in accordance with the Operations Manual of First Presbyterian Church. The work of the APSS is directed by the Pastor, in consultation with the Session, and is accountable to the Session by means of the Personnel Committee.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Associate Pastor – Stated Supply serves with the Pastor as a member of the Pastoral Team. As a member of the Pastoral Team, the APSS complements and supports the work of the Pastor in specific and general ways to enable the Pastoral Team to provide comprehensive pastoral leadership and ministry to the Congregation. The APSS is responsible to provide leadership for developing discipleship within the church. The APSS assumes administrative leadership of the church in the absence of the Pastor.

DUTIES:

1. Discipleship.
   1. Provide collaborative leadership to developing discipleship within the church, including Christian education, bible study, small groups, community service opportunities, collaborations, and other avenues as they are discerned.
   2. Collaborate closely with staff, officers, and volunteers to discern new ways to foster continuous learning, spiritual leadership development, and discipleship in the church.
      
2. Word & Sacrament.
   1. Participate in worship planning, preach the word once per month, and lead God’s people in worship weekly.

   2. Organize and officiate at funerals as needed.

3. New Members and Military.
   1. Build compassionate relationships with visitors and potential members.
   2. Help potential members and new members to explore opportunities for community and fellowship with the church.
   3. Plan and coordinate education of new members and their reception into the church.
   4. Provide leadership and identify ways to welcome active military and families to participate in the life of the church.
      
4. Christian Nurture.
   1. Assist the Director of Christian Education in organizing continuous learning and discipleship programs for all ages.
   2. Provide support for the existing Sunday school.
   3. Explore opportunities for members and partners to engage in mission outreach as spiritual development.