Gary Becker (Executive Director of BBM)
Pastoral searches at one time were more clear than they are today. When I began in ministry decades ago the pastoral search process was more simple. Churches would look at the educational and experience of a candidate and would have a good idea of the pastors fit. Pastors would look at the church doctrinal statement and attend a service and have a good idea if he would be interested. The church would look at a pastor’s background and hear him preach then present the candidate the church.
Today pastoral ministry has become more complex. Churches have many different styles and expectations of pastors. Pastors, likewise, have different expectations and have specific visions for the church.
Additionally, the number of those seeking pastoral ministry has been declining. Bible colleges and seminaries have significantly seen a declining number of those seeking a pastoral ministry. Add, thee is a shift toward pastors being trained through larger churches training with a specific style and vision. Denominational leaders are increasingly struggling to provide potential pastoral candidates. Another factor is that many pastors are retiring.
Considering these factors it becomes critical that churches carefully consider all their options. Pastors and church leaders need to ask the right questions. Here are some basic questions pastors and churches need to make clear in the pastoral search process.
How do you view the Bible? Most churches include in the doctrinal statement belief in the “inspiration” of the Bible. Today that may mean something different for some churches and pastors. Understanding how literal one is going to teach scripture can be an issue today. This is often reflected in the preaching style (Exposition, topical, contextual, etc.). Also, the preferred Bibloe translation needs to be considered.
What style of Worship are you expecting?
What is you church mission?
How does the church connect with the community?
What are the expectations for church members?
What is the plan for growing disciples?
How does the church handle safety and security?
What connection does the church have with it’s denomination or associations?
What are the expectations of the pastor relating to the denomination and/or associations?
Would you consider co-vocational or bi-vocational pastor? A question smaller churches need to see as an option.
Is the pastor considered the leader of the official board?
What do you consider to be non-negotiable in the pastoral transition?
What is the church’s position on women in ministry and leadership?
What is the accepted or referred mode of baptism?
The questions above can help to reveal to both the pastoral candidate and the church some major transitional issues before they become points of conflict. Discussing of these types of issues ahead of time helps to build understanding increasing the potential for an effective transition.