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Now that Kory is no longer our Senior Minister, what happens?
Here's an overview:
We begin a new journey
Current programs continue and expand
Nelson assists with pastoral care
Michael provides youth/young adult ministry
Guest preachers scheduled in November and December
Search Committee formed to recommend Interim and then Senior Minister
Interim Minister contracted
Senior Minister called
In the short term, who will preach during this winter-Advent season?
The Elders in our church are tasked with "pulpit supply" (a common phrase used by church
professionals to mean "guest preachers"). Several interesting guests have already been
invited to help with our services during November and December. In addition, Nelson and
Michael will continue to preach and help during services. We will also call on our Elders and
other talented members of our congregation to assist in conducting our services.
Why have an interim minister?
The purpose of an interim minister is to:
provide continuity and administrative support
offer suggestions to leaders
assist with pastoral care
lead Sunday services -- including preaching
help members deal with the change process
perform other duties as described in the "job description"
What is involved in finding an interim minister?
A Search Committee has already been formed and is actively screening candidates for interim minister, provided by our regional office. Credentials/resumes of several candidates have been reviewed; sermons heard on line; to date, one candidate has been interviewed in person; and, several phone interviews have taken place. The Search Committee is hoping to recommend a candidate soon. When the Committee selects a candidate for the interim position the General Board and congregation will vote on that person. (After that, the Search Committee begins looking for a Senior Minister.)
How long does the interim minister serve?
Interim ministers generally serve from six months to a year. Our By-Laws provide for a two-year, renewable agreement.
How often does the Search Committee meet?
About every two weeks for approximately two hours. They also do work outside the committee meetings: read candidate credentials, conduct pre-screening phone interviews, and develop documents such as a congregational profile that is shared with interested candidates.
How can I help the search for a Senior Minister?
Complete the congregational survey that will be sent to you soon regarding what we want in a new Senior Minister. Those results will be included in a congregational profile that will go to interested candidates. For example, are we looking for a senior minister that provides outstanding pastoral care, is a good preacher, etc? We will be asked to prioritize our needs...so your views are vital when we develop our profile.
You can also pray for the Search Committee. Finding a minister is more than an employment search, it is also a spiritual undertaking. The right candidate will be called by God to partner with us. Also, make suggestions for the committee by contacting any member. We are open to your suggestions and insights. We want to use creative ways to find good candidates.
How long will it take to find a Senior Minister?
Generally, it takes about a year to find a Senior Minister. The time period could extend to two years or be as short as six months. It all depends on the quality of candidates available at the time and our ability to attract them.
What makes CCC attractive for a pastor
looking for a Senior Minister position?
Our pluses include:
friendly members
beautiful physical plant
competent leaders open to new ideas
sound financial foundation
attractive and interesting suburban-urban setting
balanced membership: young families to seniors
new governing structure
outstanding staff
excellent school system.
What happens when the Search Committee
recommends a candidate for Senior Minister?
The candidate will be presented to the General Board and then the congregation for approval. Before then, you will be invited to meet the final candidate in informal "get acquainted" sessions. The person's background will be thoroughly vetted by the Committee, including reference checks and investigation of informal networks. When the candidate receives the necessary positive vote a call is extended and a new chapter begins at CCC.