You may submit your application HERE.
Is it possible to wait and chase at the same time? We believe so and are actively doing it!
Lighthouse Community Church is waiting on God through prayer and Spirit-led discernment to
reveal to us the Lead Pastor whom He has already purposed to lead our multigenerational,
dedicated, friendly, and healthy congregation into the next season of its 75-year history.
While we are waiting, we are also chasing after Jesus Christ, wherever He leads us, by ministering
both to those who call Lighthouse their church home as well as to those in the community yet to
know God’s immeasurable love. We are ready for growth both in deepening the commitment of
disciples for Jesus and the number of families in our congregation.
Lighthouse is conducting a search for a Lead Pastor who is also seeking the Holy Spirit to reveal His
plan and purpose, and then chase it with us! A Lead Pastor who:
• senses God’s call to unite with our church family;
• will utilize their years of ministry education and experience to bring biblically based,
relevant, and engaging teachings to a congregation willing to learn and apply them;
• dreams with us about innovative ministries that would reach out to people where they are
living, working, playing, attending school, or hanging out; and
• is passionate about and ministers to all with compassion, authenticity, and a good measure
of humor.
Lighthouse is imaginative enough to not be stuck in “this is how it’s always been done,” and we have
proven ourselves to be courageous followers of the Holy Spirit by the unique ways we reach out and
share God’s love to those in the Kalamazoo area.
If you have a shepherd’s heart, a joy for ministry, a life with above-reproach integrity, and if the Holy
Spirit is nudging, you may be the one He has purposed for Lighthouse Community Church. Review
the sought-after characteristics of our Lead Pastor below, wait on God for His prompting, then
chase after Him by applying. You are already in our prayers!
Who we search for:
Indispensable Qualities
• One who is dependent on the Holy Spirit with deep and rich spiritual practices and
evidences a vibrant and growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Gifted, Spirit-led, engaging teacher of biblical truth.
• A courageous leader who exemplifies, communicates, and motivates Lighthouse to live out
our vision and mission.
• A loving shepherd of the congregation who is also enthusiastic to minister to those who
don’t yet know Jesus.
Leadership Abilities
• Capable of Spirit-led vision casting and execution to the staff and congregation, giving clear
and confident direction for the course of the church, yet being flexible to change direction
when Spirit leads.
• Embraces a collaborative and empowering leadership style and is willing to make
courageous decisions and discernments that move the church forward.
• Skilled in church administration, including budgeting, planning, and organizational
leadership.
• Values and builds up ministry partners, both staff and volunteers, by setting achievable
goals and follows through to monitor the progress toward those objectives.
• Has integrity, and consistently delivers on promises and commitments.
Preaching/Teaching Capabilities
• Skillful, Spirit-inspired teachings of biblical truth that are relatable, easily applicable, and
delivered with humility, love, and joy.
• Crafts Scripture-based sermons with smooth transitions and compelling illustrations that
are culturally relevant without compromising biblical standards.
• Capable of sharing teachings that add value to the seminary graduate, the person curious
about following Jesus, and everyone in between.
Key Ministry Attributes
• Demonstrates gifts of compassion and pastoral shepherding. One who desires to
understand the issues facing members of the congregation, and who opens their door, ears,
and heart to others with compassion and love. Attends to another with deep focus and
encouragement.
• Enthusiastically embraces outreach ministries to those in need—physically, emotionally,
and spiritually—by championing current outreach initiatives and imaginatively leading the
congregation in new methods of evangelism.
• Does not take sides in partisan politics. Recognizes the necessity of addressing larger
cultural and societal issues while distinguishing that Jesus is Lord and the ultimate
authority.
• Builds relationships with other churches and ministries in the community and with nonchurch organizations, and is willing to be a visible member of the local community.
Personal Superpowers
• Lives a life of integrity and fidelity to God, spouse and family, and our congregation.
• Is above reproach in financial matters; is temperate and self-controlled in all things.
• Exhibits personal moderation and initiative-taking in managing their health.
• Recognizes the need for work/life balance and regularly practices a personal sabbath.
• Is studious and eager to learn.
• Expresses a healthy sense of humor and radiates God’s joy, despite circumstances, to
those around them.
Professional Qualifications
• Ordained or licensed as a Wesleyan minister; an ordained or licensed minister in a
likeminded denomination, and willing to transfer credentials, would be considered.
• A master’s degree in a ministry discipline is preferred; a bachelor’s degree would be
considered.
• Five or more years’ experience in a pastoral leadership role.
• Loves people compassionately, humbly, unwaveringly, and joyfully.
The mission of Lighthouse Community Church is to know God and show God through making
disciples of Jesus Christ by connecting people to God, community, and purpose. We are confident
God will guide us to the Lead Pastor who will join us in chasing after this mission as the Holy Spirit
reveals each step of the way.
If you have sought God’s leading and feel compelled, please apply for this role in our community.
Submit an application at LCC Lead Pastor Search
