FOUR OPTIONS FOR COMPLETING YOUR LOCAL CHURCH … · Web viewGrowth in church membership. Planning....

February 2020 Pastor Date Position to be filled

COMPLETING THE LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE

Introduction: The UCC Local Church Profile should be completed by a representative group of people in the congregation: either the Search Committee or a special committee appointed by the governing board. As part of the process, it is essential that the congregation be given the opportunity to contribute information and offer perspectives through small group meetings and/or written surveys. Suggestions for these data-gathering processes (including sample questionnaires) will be found in Section Four of the Parish Life and Leadership Search Committee resource UCC Search and Call, A Pilgrimage through Transitions and New Beginnings.

As you prepare material for the Local Church Profile, remember to be as candid and honest as possible in your descriptions of the history, traditions, hopes, and dreams of the members of your church.

“. . . for the Spirit is the truth.” (I John 5:6b)

Statement of Consent: The first page of the Local Church Profile contains a statement that parallels the statement that ministerial candidates are asked to sign. In keeping with the covenantal relationship between a church and those it seeks to call, the chair of the Search Committee is asked to sign a statement on behalf of the church encouraging an open exchange of information.

Instructions for Selected Numbered Items*

#1, #2: Use the church name as it is known by your Conference and the UCC. If the mailing address is different from the street address, include both. If the church does not have a street address, describe the location.

#5, #7, #8: The Research Office of the United Church of Christ provides your conference with an 11 year statistical report for each, individualcongregation. Much of the information you will need to complete items #5, #7, and #8 will be found in that report. (Figures are based on the year-end reports submitted by your church clerk/secretary.)Your Conference/ Association staff will provide your committee with that statistical resource. Consult your own annual reports for the remaining items.

#6, #20, #21, #23, #32 These items should reflect data that was gathered from the congregation through questionnaires and/or small group meetings.

#14, #17 Consult the compensation guidelines for your conference before completing these items.

*Most instructions are included in the text of the Local Church Profile itself.





















































































































































































































































































































United Church of Christ

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILEFOR LOCAL CHURCHES SEEKING NEW LEADERS

Local ChurchStatement of Consent

The covenantal relationship between a church and those called by that church to serve as pastors and teachers and in other ministerial positions is strengthened when vital information is openly shared by covenantal partners. To that end, we attest that, to the best of our abilities, we have provided information in this profile that accurately represents our church. We have not knowingly withheld any information that would be helpful to candidates. As the committee charged with the responsibility for identifying and recommending a suitable new minister for our church, we have been authorized to share the information herein with potential candidates

We understand that a candidate may wish to secure further knowledge, information, and opinion about our church. We encourage a candidate to do so, recognizing that an open exchange of relevant information builds the foundation for continuing and healthy relationships between calling bodies and persons seeking a ministry position. ____________________________________________ ___________________________ Signature of Search Committee Chairperson Date

Church

Name: Newport United Church of Christ

Address: 430 W. Third St. PO Box 959

City, State, Zip: Newport, WA 99156

Search Committee Chairperson or Contact Person

Name: Patrick Buckley

Address: P.O. Box 337

City, State, Zip: Newport, WA 99156

Telephone: 509-447-3371 509-671-7214(cell)

Fax:

E-Mail: [email protected]

February 2020__ ____Pastor____ Date Position to be filled

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILEFOR LOCAL CHURCHES SEEKING NEW LEADERS

1

Please return the completed document to your conference or association office.

1. Church: Newport United Church of Christ

2. Address: 430 W. Third St. PO Box 959

City, State, and Zip: Newport, WA 99156

Church Website: newportucc.org

3. Name of Search Committee Chairperson/Contact Person: Patrick Buckley

Address: P.O. Box 337

City, State, and Zip: Newport, WA 99156

Telephone: 509-447-3371 509-671- 7214(cell)

Email: [email protected] FAX:

4. Conference/Association Staff Person Assisting Our Church: Reverend Mike Denton

Address: 325 125th St. N.

City, State, Zip: Seattle, WA 98113

Telephone: 206-518-1258

Email: [email protected] FAX: 206-725-8394

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

5. Membership: (as reflected in the eleven-year UCC Statistical Report for our church; “est.” indicates the figure is an estimate.)

Last Year 5 Years Ago 10 Years Agoa. # Church members 107 114 109b. Average attendance at worship 63 66 70c. Average participation of children/youth in C.E. 6 10 0d. Average weekly participation in adult education

15 10 n/a

e. # Members who are ordained clergy 1 3 2

6. Profile of CongregationEstimate percentage of congregation. Each category should add up to 100%.

a. Age: c. Family units: 1 % ages 0 - 5 5 % couples with children at home 4 % ages 6-18 46 % couples without children at home 2 % ages 19-34 44 % single 8 % ages 35-49 5 % single parent with children at home 26 % ages 50-64 35 % ages 65-74 24 % ages 75 +

b. Education level of adults: d. Occupation of adults: 3 % completed less than high school 25 % business

2

mailto:[email protected]

35 % high school graduates 10 % clerical 14 % some college/vocational school 3 % farmer/rancher 26 % college graduates 20 % laborer/manufacturing 22 % graduate school 29 % professional

__7___ % student 3 % tradesperson 3____ % other

e. Employment: 24 % employed 1 % not currently employed 75 % retired

f. Describe the racial-ethnic makeup of your congregation: Mostly white

CHURCH FINANCES (Figures reflect the eleven-year UCC statistical reports as well as the church’s annual reports.)

Last Year 5 Years Ago 10 Years Ago7. Total Church Income 121,693 120,467 114,449

a. Members offerings and pledges 102,605 114,478 113,692b. Interest from investment or endowments 3c. Principal reduction (endowments or

investments)d. Rentals 2,490 450 710e. Special Fundraising 9,750 10,667 10,000f. Other

If the church has conducted an annual stewardship campaign, list results for the past two years:2018 Goal: no goal Pledges: $ 91,030 Actual Received: $86,740 (total) $103,991 2019 Goal: no goal Pledges: $ 85,230 Actual Received: $89,464 (total) $102,605

Last Year 5 Years Ago 10 Years Ago8. Total Operating Budget 122,994 115,643 105,968

a. Our Church’s Wider Mission Basic Support 6,700 6,000 5,000b. Our Church’s Wider Mission Special

Supportc. Other gifts 2,797 7,403 3,044d. Current local expenses 134,858 114,467 114,449e. Annual capital paymentsf. Other debt

9. Identify UCC special offerings the church receives throughout the year and the amounts from last year: 873 One Great Hour of Sharing 565 Neighbors in Need 1,010 Christmas Fund 349 Strengthen the Church 0 Basic Support for Our Church’s Wider Mission (only if received through special offerings and not included as a regular budget item in #8 above.)

10. Mission

“So we who are many, are one bodyin Christ . . .”Romans 12:5a

3

“God is able to provide you with every blessing in

abundance.”II Cor. 9:8a

a. Beyond your contributions through the UCC, name the most significant local or global missions/ministries or agencies that were financially supported by your local church last year and the amount of support:

Name Amount1. Heifer Project $1,673

2. Local Rural Resources, Family Crisis Network, food banks $4,200YES, and Pend Oreille River School

3. Freedom Cart (Transport) Project $727

b. What mission project has excited your church the most in the past three years? Why?

Freedom Cart Project-- Realizing what a difference this hand operated trike makes in a person’s life, providing mobility and status, which enables the ability to get a job and contribute to the family income.

YES (Youth Emergency Services)- providing food, clothing and funding for this community organization

Heifer Project-- Choosing which animals to purchase that will make the biggest impact on someone’s way of living in a third world country.

11. Indebtedness

a. Total amount of outstanding mortgages/capital debt: $0

b. Total amount of other debt: $0Describe:

c. Are payments current? yes no

12. Capital Campaigns:

a. If the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, note goal and results: Goal: Furnace and Hot water $6,267 Outcome: $6,267 Goal: Informational Sign $6,000 Outcome: $6,000 Goal: Memorial Garden $1,000 Outcome: $1,000 Goal: Sound System $16,000 (grant $3,750) Outcome: $16,000Goal: Playground and Equipment (paid by grant) $2,850

b. What projects were undertaken as a result of your capital campaign?

See Above

c. Was there a mission or outreach component to the campaign? _____ Yes ____X_ No

d. If a capital campaign is underway or anticipated, describe

4

13. Assets held by the Church:

a. Reserves (savings): $12,000

b. Endowments/Investments: $41,800

c. Describe buildings and property of your church except the parsonage:

The church is a unique and functional 6,044 square foot building, which sits on four corner lots, one block from the main street. It was constructed in 1983, is handicap accessible, and includes: a versatile sanctuary, large fellowship hall, kitchen, five Sunday school rooms with a large common area, nursery, fireside meeting room, four bathrooms, pastor’s office, and an office for the church secretary. There is a fenced-in yard including a memorial garden and playground.

d. Is the church building (including sanctuary and offices) handicapped accessible?

Yes __X___ Partially (specify) ________________________________________ No _____

Is the pulpit handicapped accessible? Yes _____ No_X____(but easily adapted)

e. If a building program is projected or underway, describe it, including estimated date of completion: n/a

f. If the church owns a parsonage, describe it: N/A

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Number of Rooms: Number of Bedrooms: Number of Bathrooms:

Description:

Distance from Church Handicapped Accessible? Yes ____No____Partial_____

FINANCIAL SUPPORT OF MINISTERIAL LEADERS

14. If your conference has compensation guidelines, do you follow them?_____ yes ___X__ yes for some compensation items but not all _____ no

Does the church consider this position to be full time or part time?__X___ Full Time _____ Part Time (specify) __________________________________________

How will church members be supportive of a part time or bivocational pastor who may need another job to supplement the church salary? N/A

15. Salary HistoryTo provide a profile of salaries for the position you are seeking to fill, indicate salaries at the beginning and ending of the ministers’ tenure. Do not include interim positions. If a parsonage is provided, insert the letter “P” in the space provided. Provide information for the last 3 leaders or the last ten year

5

Start Date End DateYear Salary Housing Parsonage Year Salary Housing Parsonage

a. Last 2016 23,000 18,000 2019 33,000 18,600b. Previous 2011 26,760 26,760 2015 29,468 29,468c. Next previous

2007 23,344 12,672 2010 24,840 24,840

16. During the above period, has your church ever failed to fulfill its financial obligations to its pastor? _____yes __X___ no If yes, please comment:

17. Salary, Benefits, and Expenses Offereda. Cash salary offered: negotiations start at $48,500, DOE, includes housing

Travel expenses are separate and negotiable.Conference recommended salary range: $ Below Seattle range

b. Housing: $_______________X Housing allowance only Parsonage only Would consider offering either

c. Customary benefits: Negotiable depending on experience

d. Ministry Expensesx Travel Reimbursementx Meeting Expense Reimbursementx___ Books and Periodicalsx___ Reimbursement of Criminal Background Check Feex Reasonable Moving Expenses

COMMUNITY CHARACTERISTICS

18. Populationa. Population of total city or town in which your church is located: 2,147

b. Describe the population by racial-ethnic category and identify the source of the information:

Per County records based on total population of 13,602 (2018)

White 12,241Black 125Native American 651API 208Two or more races 472

19. Economic Factors

Identify major sources of employment/income in your community:a. Newport Community Hospital ongoing Medical Student Training

b. Ponderay Newsprint

c. Government (PUD, schools, county offices)

6

d. Kalispel Tribe of Indians

e. Safron Inc.

f. Small businesses

g. Spokane Community College, Newport Campus

h. USDA, Forest Services

20. General Description (Add *** if the information came from a survey of the congregation)

a. Describe three distinctive attributes of your community:1. Newport is a small town in the midst of beautiful lakes, forests, rivers and mountains, and is within an hour’s drive of Spokane and Coeur d’Alene with their middle sized city advantages of universities, medical facilities, symphonies, music venues, businesses and recreation opportunities.

2. Generally, the people in this area are friendly and kind with a range of political and social attitudes and opinions from very progressive to ultra conservative. There are many retired folks seeking the beauty of forests and lakes, as well as young people looking for a way to start their lives. The character of the people seems shaped by the best of rural, small town, traditional values. We appreciate the surrounding scenic beauty and hope for more economic opportunities.

3. Multiple arts organizations and activities offer participation in art, music and theater arts. Service organizations, schools, rodeos, library, historical events, hospital and assisted care facilities offer opportunities to engage in community life. The Camas Center, Club Fitness and three school gyms are here for physical activity as well as outdoor activities such as boating, walking, bike trails, gardening, hiking and skiing.

c. Identify major trends you envision in your community during the next five years:1. There is economic growth (a major concern for the county commissioners) There is discussion about the county growth and management plan, balancing environmental concerns with economic development needs. The Kalispel Tribe, 20 miles north of Newport, will be helpful in this process. The new hospital expansion, ie: new health clinic, new long term care, new assisted living, and new memory care facility built in 2019, has been included into community life. The new major grocery store, Tractor Supply and small businesses will provide new opportunities

2. The Kalispel Tribe is planning progressively and including the entire county in its plans. Its mission is to strengthen and build its community while striving to be a good neighbor to the greater community.

d. List three or four problem areas confronting your community that members feel your church should address:

1. Sustaining and supporting local service agencies such as Youth Emergency Services, homeless youth, low income housing, food insecurity, Family Crisis Network and Rural Resources, 2. Senior services such as Hospitality House, assisted living activities, and memory care.3. Youth resources need to be supported, to help homeless youth with basic needs.

e. Indicate Mission Activities

7

1. In which your church participates as a part of its mission in the community:Our church extends its mission into the community by contributing to 3 local food banks, Rural Resources (helps individuals needing services such as gas, food vouchers, medicine, rent and power assistance) Family Crisis Network, Youth Emergency Services, The Good Samaritan -Shoebox Ministries (distributes personal hygiene kits to the homeless), Freedom Carts (a wheelchair type of apparatus helping people without the use of their legs-propelled with the use of their arms), KIVA-helping needy entrepreneurs around the world, and supporting Heifer International. We provide building space for the activities listed in part 20 e.

2. In which your church expects the leader you are now seeking to participate:We expect our pastor to view our own church as a mission. The pastor helps those in need by referring them to the appropriate agency for their specific need. Any involvement in community volunteer services might also help the pastor understand the needs of the community. The Family Crisis Network will also help the pastor understand the needs of the community.

f. Describe how your church building is now being used by the community: The church is used by community groups such as Northwoods Performing Arts, Mountain Harmony Show Choir, the co-op preschool, 4H, community blood bank and the monthly community agencies coordination meeting, also weddings, funerals, and Lenten ecumenical soup suppers with the Lutheran and Catholic churches.

g. Indicate the number of school districts from which members of your church are drawn: one two X three or more

CONGREGATIONAL LIFE

(Add *** if the information came from a survey of the congregation)

21. Identify major trends you envision in your church in the next five years

Local community outreach. Build a sense of community within our membership.Growth in church membership.

22. Planning

a. All churches do planning. How would you characterize the way planning is done in your church?Planning is done by the church council and committees in conjunction with the pastor.

b. What expectations do you have of the person you are seeking in relation to the planning that takes place?We expect the pastor to be organized, listen to and work well with all committees, being a team player.

c. When is the last time your church undertook a period of discernment and long-range planning in an intentional way? N/A

d. What were the outcomes of your intentional long-range planning? N/A

e. Does your church have any plans to undertake a period of intentional long-range planning in the future? We see the benefit and are looking to pursue this in 2020.

23. Reflections on Congregational Life

8

Comment on the following with what you believe to be the generally-held responses of the congregation. If more space is needed, use additional pages. (Add *** if information came from a survey of the congregation.)

a. Identify the three most important faith experiences or events in the history of your church and the year each took place:Event Year1. The burning of our church followed by rebuilding, and 1980

ecumenical opportunities with the Catholic and Lutheran churches.2. The initial organization of the Family Crisis Network, which 1982

has grown and become independent.3. The initial organization of Lenten soup suppers, with other local 1993-present

churches.4. Freedom Carts providing transportation for those without the 1993-present

use of their legs in third world countries. 5. Habitat for Humanity-built 5 houses 1994-2004 6. Closing song circle at the end of the service-fellowship afterwards. 1995-present

7. Rotary Club drilling water wells in Africa 2004-2007

Identify the most challenging faith experience or event in the life of your church in the last three years and what the church learned from it:1.Loss of long time members due to death, moving or changes in health. We learned that it is advisable to have each person with responsibilities or committee jobs train their replacement as soon as possible. We need to keep inviting new folks to church and seek new ways to reach them.

2. We learned that working collaboratively with clear explanations early in the pastor/church council relationship is a must. It helps define roles and expectations. The church council is a strong body of informed, capable individuals.

b. What is God calling your church to do/become over the next few years? With the retirement of our current pastor, we need to call a new pastor to walk along side us as a team member and help strengthen the church and lead us to understand our relationship to God and God’s plan for the Newport United Church of Christ in this time and community. We hope to share the Gospel, revitalize Christian Education for the youth and adults, increase intergenerational membership, attract new families and fulfill God’s expectations for our church family.

d. Describe how the church expects the person you are seeking to help your church reach these goals: The pastor should be an inspirational speaker who is able to motivate people to hear the Word and participate in Christian education and missions programs. They should work effectively with committees. Involvement with the local community will help reach these goals.

e. Chose the statement that most accurately describes the theological/faith stance of your church: You may check more that one.

_____ We tend to be theologically conservative

_____ We tend to be theologically moderate to conservative

__X___We tend to be theologically moderate to liberal.

_____ We tend to be theologically liberal.

__X___We tend to be quite diverse theologically.9

_____Other

Other Comments: In the words of a former pastor: “I have learned here a much deeper appreciation for the unconditional welcome and hospitality of Jesus Christ. You have also renewed my passion and conviction that one of the greatest gifts the church can offer our modern culture is the gift of intergenerational friendships and learning. You have reminded me that Christian unity is not based in theological agreement, but rather love.” (The Reverend Steve Willis)

The faith stance of much of the church seems to be traditional rural and a bit conservative but welcoming and accepting to all.

f. Describe the educational program of your church:

Identify the curriculum used in your church school and the person or committee responsible for selection of curriculum.

The Christian Education program currently needs revitalizing. We currently do not have Sunday school. The pastor-led adult Bible study during the week has ended, and our lay-led Bible study leader has recently moved.

Indicate resources used for Confirmation and the person or committee responsible for the selection of these resources:

The pastor has led confirmation and welcome to the church classes.

Are there educational opportunities for all ages? Yes

Does your church have a written Safe Church Policy?____X__Yes _________No (If No, has a group worked on this issue in the past? What was the outcome?)

g. Describe how the church expects the person you are seeking to participate in the congregation’s educational programs:The pastor will need to work with, and advise the Christian Education committee, conduct adult education classes and create and bring new ideas.

h. Describe how programs or ministries of your church are evaluated:Programs are evaluated by the participants and their participation- No formal evaluation,but the outcome of programs are discussed by the Church Council.

i. Describe the strengths or positive qualities of your church:(Add *** if information came from a survey of the congregation.)

Our members are involved in the wider community. Our church family is friendly, welcoming, helpful and creative. We believe we have the best musicians in town, especially our piano/organ team and choir director. Or church is beautiful (see website photos) and very well maintained. We work to serve as Christ’s hands in this world.

24. Indicate major boards, committees, small groups, and organizations that are a part of your church; the frequency of meetings (monthly, weekly, etc.); and expectations for leadership. For leadership role use: 1 = pastor takes primary initiative and responsibility; 2 = pastor and laity share responsibility; 3 = laity take primary

10

initiative and responsibility; 4 = the pastor’s presence is expected periodically/occasionally.

Board/Committee Purpose # Members Frequency LeadershipCouncil

Diaconate

Stewardship

Trustees

Christian Ed

Missions

Delegates

Prayer Chain

Called to Care

Women’s Fellowship

Men’s Breakfast

Chimes

Memorials

Overall decisions

Plans worship related activities

Plans financial programs

Building and grounds maintenance

Plans Sunday School/youth programs

Plans missions fund raising and expenditure

Attend Annual Conference

When activated, pray for the need

Send cards and visit the sick

Oversee the kitchen and raise funds forchurch projects

Fellowship

Prepare and assemble church newsletter

Makes memorial funds purchases

7-10

10

7

7

11

7

3

6

5

20-30

7-12

6-10

4

Monthly

Monthly

As needed

Monthly

Monthly

9x’s yr

Once/yr

As needed

Monthly

Monthly

Monthly

9x’s/yr

As needed

3

2

3

3

3

2

2

3

2

3

3

3

2

Ongoing Small Groups Purpose # Members Frequency Leadership

Landscape Committee Plan and implement updating of churchlandscape

4 As needed 3

11

25. Conflict Most churches experience conflict at various times. Characterize your church’s experience with conflict given the following possibilities. Indicate the extent to which each statement describesyour church: C = closely; S = somewhat; N = not at all.

C as a church, we respect and listen to each other and work things through without generating divisiveness S as a church, we try to respect and listen to each other, but it is not uncommon for

differences of opinion to be a problem and for some people to choose sides S some have left our church because of conflict N conflict hurts our sense of unity, but we tend not to talk about it S painful experience with conflict has been present, but it has been worked through, and

we have learned from the experience S we have had some painful experiences with conflict, and they linger in the background N open conflict is present, and we need a minister who can help us deal with it other Specify:

Comment: Conflict is generally limited to small, easily solved issues.

26. Worshipa. Describe the weekly worship schedule (number of services, times, languages in which the services

are conducted, frequency with which communion is included, special emphases such as healing services, contemporary worship, etc.)

Communion – First Sunday of the monthNumber of Services – 1/week on Sunday at 10amLanguage - English

b. Are your worship services or church gatherings sign language interpreted?_____ Yes __N___ No

Are there particular ministries with persons with developmental disabilities or mental illness?Comment

c. Identify how worship is planned on a regular basis in your church __X_ by Diaconate and Music Director__X__ by the pastor-Sermon__X___by the pastor in consultation with the church musician__X_ other – specify: The pastor meets with the Diaconate on a regular basis. The committee helps the pastor with some of the details of services, such as communion, and Lenten soup suppers and services.

d. Describe the style and content of preaching valued by your congregation: Our congregation values a preacher who relates the Bible to daily life, is enthusiastic,

organized, has a sense of humor, a good voice, and an effective delivery without reading the sermon verbatim.

e. Describe the role in worship of the person you are seeking:We are seeking, a strong, dynamic Christian leader.

f. What hymnal(s) are currently used by your congregation in worship?

The Pilgrim Hymnal, The Cokesbury Worship Hymnal and The New Century Hymnal

g. Have you considered using another hymnal?No

12

h. Churches have a variety of practices related to the use of Inclusive Language in worship services. (Some churches have made the decision not to change any language in worship; others are intentionally inclusive in their references to people avoiding words such as “mankind”. Some avoid exclusively male references for God and seek to include male and female images as well as a variety of metaphors; other churches exercise care in the words of the liturgy but still utilize “traditional” hymns.) How important is this issue to your church?

We feel that the words in the Bible should not be changed to be inclusive. We would prefer to use a traditional hymnal.

WIDER CHURCH CONNECTIONS

27. United Church of Christa. Association, conference, or other denominational programs and activities in which church members

participate:

Do you send delegates to association and conference meetings?Regularly ____X___ Occasionally _______Never________

Have members of your church ever served as delegates or visitors to General Synod?Yes_______ No___X____Not Sure _________

b. Association, conference, or other denominational settings in which your church expects the leader you are now seeking to participate:

Local ministerial association

c. Choose the word that best describes how lay leaders of your church consciously identifywith the United Church of Christ:

closely moderately X nominally other

Comment:28. Ecumenical and Interfaith Activities

a. Describe ways your church participated in ecumenical and interfaith activities duringthe past three years:Our church works closely with the Lutherans and Catholics; sharing Lenten soup suppers and services, vacation Bible school, and youth programs, exchanges of pastors and musicians, and combining choirs. Our pastor also works with the local ministerial association. The local Trick or Treat for UNICEF program has been held at our church. Our congregation willingly supports Missions in Africa, as well as the Shoebox and Heifer International projects. We have an established KIVA endowment fund.

b. Describe how your church expects the leader you are now seeking to participate inecumenical and interfaith activities:

We expect our pastor to work with the local ministerial association, and have a good working relationship with all other churches within our community.

RELATIONSHIP WITH MINISTERIAL LEADERS

29. Relationship With Prior Leadersa. Characterize your church’s experience with pastoral leaders over the past 15 years.

You may check more than one response:X In general, our lay leaders have a history of strong, cooperative relationships with the

church’s pastoral leadership. We have had some fairly rocky moments, but we have worked them through, and

13

relationships with pastoral leaders have grown in significant and important ways. We have had some tough times and things did not always work out. Other. Specify

b. Indicate the tenure of the last three installed persons who filled the position you are seeking to fill. Do not include interims:

Name From To1. The Rev. Dr. Rebecca Anderson

2. Rev. Russell Clark

3. Rev. Steve Willis

4. The Rev. Dr. Deb Allen

2016

2011

2008

1994

2019

2016

2010

2006

c. If a previous pastor or pastor emeritus/a is currently a member of the church, describe his or her involvement in the life of the congregation: n/a

d. In addition to financial support, describe how your church supported the most recent person to hold the position you are now seeking to fill:

The congregation supported the pastor’s time to volunteer in the community. The pastor met with local ministers to discuss the lectionary. The pastor and family were always included in social activities.

e. Involuntary Terminations:Have any of the last three persons serving in the position you are seeking to fill left involuntarily or under pressure?_____ yes ___X__ no: If “yes,” respond to the following:

Choose all the issues that may have contributed to the involuntary termination. You may check more than one or indicate “not applicable.”_____conflict of personalities in the church_____inadequate performance_____pastoral style inappropriate for this church_____ethical issues or issues of fitness for ministry_____financial stresses_____other. Specify:

Indicate, if you can, which of the following best describe the congregation’s behavior toward that person prior to her or his leaving: You may check more than one. _____civil _____kind_____compassionate _____supportive_____harsh _____indifferent

Describe what your church has learned from the experience about itself and its relationship with persons who provided ministerial leadership:

30. Does the church have a Pastoral Relations Committee? X yes noIf yes, describe its purpose, functions and how often they meet:Functions as needed, and acts as a sounding board and intermediary, if needed, to help if the congregation or pastor has concerns.

31. If there is periodic assessment/evaluation of the nature of the work and of the performance of that work for the position you are seeking to fill,

Describe it: The Annual Report and The Pastoral Relations committee as necessary.

14

Is the periodic ministerial evaluation coordinated with a regular assessment of the overall ministry of the congregation? n/a

32. Leadership ExpectationsA list follows of 45 items which represent a range of qualities in the ministry of the church. Place an “X” beside the 12 items which your church feels are the most important aspects of ministry for your church at this time. All the qualities are important. However, please mark those 12 which you feel need first priority at this time. Do not rank the items. If the aspects you consider to be important are not included in the list, place them at the end in the blanks provided.

Mark only 12 of the following items. Do not rank the items.

Our church needs a person who…

1. X__ is an effective preacher/speaker 24. regularly encourages support of2. continues to develop his/her Our Church’s Wider Mission theological and biblical skills 25. reaches out to inactive members3. X__ helps people develop their 26. works regularly in the development

spiritual life of stewardship growth4. helps people work together in 27. ____ is active in ecumenical relationships

solving problems and encourages the church to5. X is effective in planning and leading participate

worship 28. __X_ is a person of faith6. has a sense of the direction of 29. writes clearly and well

his/her ministry 30. works well on a team7._______regularly encourages people to 31. __ is effective in working with youth

participate in United Church of 32. organizes people for community action Christ activities and programs 33. is skilled in planning and leading

8. helps people understand and act programs upon issues of social justice 34. plans and leads well-organized

9. __X__ is a helpful counselor meetings10. ministers effectively to people in 35. __X__ encourages people to relate their faith

crisis situations to their daily lives11. X__ makes pastoral calls on people in 36. ____ is accepting of people with divergent

hospitals and nursing homes and views those confined to their homes 37. encourages others to assume and

12. makes pastoral calls on members carry out leadership not confined to their homes 38. X is mature and emotionally secure

13. is a good leader14. is effective in working with children 39. has strong commitment and loyalty15. X builds a sense of fellowship among 40. __X__ maintains confidentially

the people with whom he/she works 41. understands and interprets the mission16. helps people develop their leadership of the church from a global perspective

abilities 42. __X__ is a compassionate and caring person17. is an effective administrator 43. deals effectively with conflict18. X is effective with committees and 44.

officers 45. 19. is an effective teacher20. ___ has a strong commitment to the If there are other comments you wish to make

educational ministry of the church about expectations, include one or more 21. is effective in working with adults paragraphs here on an additional sheet.22. inspires a sense of confidence23. X__ works regularly at bringing new

members into the church

Our church has long been supported by a consistent group of wonderful individuals, many of whom have raised their families here for generations. Children have moved due to work and life being what it is. As such, we are dedicated to re-invigorating our church with a new group of young families who live hereor have just moved here, and need a church family.

15

GENERAL

33. Does your governing body or your search committee have a well-defined policy against discrimination? _____ Yes ___X__ No Comment:

34. Has your congregation participated in an ONA (Open and Affirming) study/discernmentprocess? _____ Yes __X___ No Comment:

35. Is there a position description of the pastor’s role and responsibilities? __X___ Yes _____ No If “yes,” please attach a copy.

Does your church have a personnel policy covering this position? Yes X No

36. List the titles of other paid staff positions for whom this person provides supervision and indicate whether these positions are full-time (FT) or part-time (PT).Title: Church Secretary X PT FTTitle: PT FTTitle: PT FTTitle: PT FT

37. Name three people who have agreed to serve as references. Make sure they are not members of your church, but know your church well enough to be helpful to a final candidate seeking more information about your church, e.g., conference staff, person in community, neighboring pastor:

Name Telephone Relationship to Your Churcha. Rev. Matt & Janine Goodrich 509-447-4338 Lutheran Pastors

b. Rev. Allen Shriver 406-396-5994 Previously attended, moved to Spokane

c. Rev. Steve Willis 540-797-6847 Former Pastor

38. What groups or individuals in your church have contributed to, reviewed, and/or approved this profile for circulation? Search Committee, the congregation, Church Council, Rev. Mike Denton.

16

STATEMENT ON LEADERSHIP IN MINISTRY

Using this page, and one additional page if needed, write a statement that will help a candidate better understand the relationship of clergy and lay leadership in the life of your congregation. Candidates will be interested to know whether your lay leaders have a history of strong, cooperative relationships with the church’s pastoral leadership. If your church organizational structure is based on intentional lay-led ministries, describe how that structure functions in relationship to the pastor; if your organizational structure is dependent on clergy leadership, describe what will be expected of the pastor.

If you wish, this statement can provide an opportunity for you to elaborate on the list of committees/boards/groups that you identified in Question 24. (For example, in some churches the expectation is for mutual involvement of pastor and finance committee in the financial matters of the church; other congregations have a clear expectation that the pastor will be focused on “spiritual matters” and will be excluded from settings where financial decisions are made.)

Include in the statement reflections on leadership styles that work well for your church. What do you hope/expect that your new pastor will understand and value in your particular style of lay leadership? What would a new pastor need to know in order to work smoothly with your established leaders? If yours is a multiple-staff church, it would be helpful to comment on your expectations of how the staff team members relate to each other. You are encouraged to include anything else you want to say about your church and its expectations of the leader it now seeks:

We have a very strong lay leadership in our church. On page 11, you will see the number of very active committees that participate independently and in conjunction with the Pastor and the Church Council. Overall, the pastor’s input is requested and appreciated. To a large extent, however, the majority of the day-to-day business related dealings do not require the pastor’s ongoing oversight or participation. We feel though that a good understanding of what is occurring on a day-to-day basis is necessary and this is obtained through attendance and participation in the committees.

The larger focus for our pastor is what is not listed on the committee list – we expect and appreciate a Pastor who can, in a very practical sense, attend to the spiritual needs of the church, our members and the community around us. The pastor is encouraged to participate in church business as a team member. The pastor needs a focused goal and attention on meeting the faith based and spiritual needs that cannot be met by a committee. Leadership styles that work well with our church include a sense of humor, openness to diversity of opinion and lifestyles and the ability to work cooperatively with flexibility.

We love our Sunday services and appreciate inspirational worship service, children’s time and lessons that are bible based. We also prefer a traditional service carried out with levity, and efficiency. We love a good sermon led from the heart from a dynamic speaker who makes faith practical and has the ability to speak from experience and through thoughtful or humorous stories. (Please note that the multi-stall restrooms are too far away for a very long sermon and there is food and coffee waiting for all.)

We would like a Pastor who joins in and enjoys our after service fellowship hour – a part of the service that tends to last longer than the service itself and where we find ourselves really appreciative and appreciated. Spending time over coffee and food is a very large part of our Pastor’s leadership role.

The Pastor’s role of Leadership at our Church is one that is essentially cooperative and friendly…carried out with a sense of caring, hope and humor. It is done with committees, on Sundays in front of the congregation, across the table over coffee, at a home or the hospital bedside and in our community as a participant in activities in groups around town.

17

Conference or AssociationDescriptive Reference

Church Name:

Location:

Conference:

Association:

Name of Staff Assisting in the Search:

Staff Comments:

_________________________________________________ Signature of Staff Assisting in the Search

________________________________ Date

18

FOUR OPTIONS FOR COMPLETING YOUR LOCAL CHURCH … · Web viewGrowth in church membership. Planning....

Documents

Transcript of FOUR OPTIONS FOR COMPLETING YOUR LOCAL CHURCH … · Web viewGrowth in church membership. Planning....