Position Description

This position opening is effective immediately as of 21 January 2023. This is a full-time sole pastoral role for an established church in a semi rural location in the Municipality of Central Elgin just outside the city of St. Thomas, Ontario. Known as Plains, First Yarmouth (Plains) Baptist church is an open, friendly and inclusive congregation with a strong sense of family. Plains has evolved an open minded theology and hold a progressive posture towards issues such as women in ministry and leadership. That sense of community unity and a warm friendly atmosphere is one of the churches greatest assets. It is surpassed only by the love of God that meets us, feeds us and sustains us.

About us

Plains Baptist Church was established by the early settlers in the Township of Yarmouth in 1830. We are a congregation with a focus on family and regular outreach into the community and through involvement in missions. Plains is a modern and accessible building and administered by dedicated groups, committees and volunteers. With a newly updated sanctuary and modern multi media system the pastor will need to work with the team to optimize its use. The congregation is looking for a sole pastoral candidate that would be a valued member of the church family. A comprehensive document is available upon request for prospective ministers who would like to inquire about this opportunity.

Church Purpose/Mission Statement

We at the First Yarmouth Plains Baptist Church strive to provide an environment for people to explore develop and celebrate their faith in God.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Interested candidates should have the following qualifications
• Be a graduate or graduating from an accredited theological college or seminary.
• Have credentials suitable for accreditation with CBOQ.
• Be a good communicator and be self motivated.
• The candidate should be willing to relocate to the area.
• Be familiar with ministry in a rural church setting.

Role and Responsibilities

• To prepare coordinate and conduct regular Sunday worship services in close collaboration with the other worship leaders such as musicians, lay participants and choir.
• To conduct ordinances of Baptism, Communion and child dedication with the assistance of the Deacons.
• To prepare the weekly worship bulletin.
• To provide pastoral support and spiritual care to congregants and their families.
• To provide encouragement, council and input to the church’s leadership.
• To conduct funerals and weddings for congregants and their families as requested.
• To encourage the church leadership to adhere to the spirit of the church’s statement of commitment in their deliberations and decisions.
• To attend and participate in meetings of the Deacon’s board, Sunday school and any other Committee meeting of the church as required to provide and receive input and guidance.
• To encourage ongoing spiritual growth by initiating overseeing and or facilitating small group gatherings for study and/or worship and community building.
• To attend or participate in events in the wider church or community that the congregation would consider significant to the church’s ministry.

Salary Range (optional)

The position would require a time commitment of flexible hours but averaging 40 hours per week.

Salary commensurate with experience and based on CBOQ guidelines