Pastoral Search Process

Character.Competency.Chemistry.

1. Mobilize the congregation to saturate the search in prayer.

2. Candidate Profile from Refocusing (JDPAS) process and website posting ad are created.

3. District office staff posts ad on websites and pre-screens resumes (cost of postings will be covered by the church).

4. Board appoints Search Committee.

5. Resumes which match profile are emailed to local church Search Committee.

Sources of resumes:

6. Search Committee makes initial phone contact with candidate, checks references and sends information packet.

7. Short list (top three) candidates are asked by Search Committee to complete 2 online inventories:

A copy of the results are sent to the district office (cost of these inventories will be covered by the church).

8. Search Committee conducts phone interview with top 2 or 3 candidates using behavioural questions (see sample questions below for download). Where possible, committee members visit the candidate's church to observe his ministry first-hand. Sample preaching tapes/cds are gathered and evaluated.

9. Search Committee checks with district office concerning top candidates' accreditation status witht he C&MA. Where needed, accreditation process is launched (Application form and Interview) prior to on-site candidating.

10. Search Committee recommends to Board that an official on-site candidating process be conducted with top candidate. Financial compensation package is communicated in writing.

11. After consulting with the District Superintendent, a call is issued by the Board to the candidate Time frame for start date is established and moving details arranged.

Available Downloads

Behavioural Questions
Candidate Reference Checks
Guidelines For Church Boards During Pastoral Transition
Guidelines for Staff Members
Intentional Transitional Ministry
Senior Pastor Job Description (SAMPLE)
Bridging the Gap