Cornerstone Fellowship Associate Pastor

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Snapshot

Denomination: Non-denominational 

Weekly Attendance:  500

Location: Tahlequah, OK

The Role: Associate Pastor

Meet Cornerstone Fellowship:

Cornerstone Fellowship, founded by Pastor Allen Nolan in 1987, began with just 12 people in his home. Over the years, the church has relocated six times, starting in a health club, then moving to two different storefronts. In 1994, they purchased and remodeled an 18,000-square-foot building on Water Street, where attendance surged to over 600, leading to the need for multiple weekend services.

To accommodate further growth, the church acquired 20 acres of prime land near Tahlequah High School in 2002. In the interim, they rented the Tahlequah Performing Arts Center, which opened in March 2003, before finally moving to their current location in 2005. This journey reflects their commitment to growth and community service over the decades.

About the Associate Pastor: 

Associate Pastors serve in a supporting role to the Lead Pastor of Cornerstone Fellowship and are expected to help fulfill all pastoral responsibilities as deemed necessary and/or appropriate by the Lead Pastor.  

Associate Pastors have three major responsibilities, listed according to priority: 

(1) Assist the Lead Pastor with teaching responsibilities. 

(2) Lead and oversee pastoral care. 

(3) Lead and oversee discipleship classes for new believers and members.

The Associate Pastor Responsibilities Include: 

• Associate Pastors will teach God’s word, both topical and expository, to help develop fully-devoted followers of Christ.

• Associate Pastors will be scheduled to speak as needed, with additional responsibilities as required by the Lead Pastor. 

1. 1. Includes teaching between the Lead Pastor’s sermon series and when the Lead Pastor is on vacation. 

   2. Must be prepared to speak at a moment’s notice, in the event the Lead   Pastor has an unforeseen obligation or crisis (i.e. a funeral service, emergency, illness, etc.).

Lead and oversee pastoral care, allowing the Lead Pastor more time to focus on teaching,  

preaching and discipleship.

Weddings

• Associate Pastors are expected to officiate all wedding ceremonies for members of Cornerstone Fellowship.

1. 1. Responsible for scheduling and conducting rehearsals.

   2. Responsible for meeting with the bride and groom to discuss the     ceremony and reception arrangements.

• The Lead Pastor will officiate wedding ceremonies for a select group of people, and only in special cases.

Funerals 

• Associate Pastors are expected to officiate all funeral services for members of Cornerstone Fellowship and their families.

1. 1. Responsible for meeting with the family to offer consolation and      gather stories for the eulogy.

   2. Responsible for coordinating details with the funeral home and     providing an order of service.

• The Lead Pastor will officiate funeral services for a select group of people, and only in special cases.

Hospital Visitation

• Associate Pastors are expected to make hospital visits for members of Cornerstone Fellowship.

Exceptions

1. Those having outpatient procedures.

2. Those who are in the emergency room.

3. Those who are hospitalized overnight for observation.

4. Those who are hospitalized short term (1-2 days) in non-local hospitals.

• Questions regarding whether a hospital visit is required should be referred to the Co-Pastor.  

• Associate Pastors will be compensated for gas and a meal for non-local hospital visits.

Crisis Situations

• Associate Pastors are expected to receive calls and see walk-ins who desire to talk with the Lead Pastor due to a crisis situation.

• It is Cornerstone Fellowship’s policy that staff pastors do not offer counseling.

1. 1. Associate Pastors are required to handle the crisis situation by listening and offering biblical advice (which is not counseling), and by referring the person (or persons) to a licensed counselor.

   2. Associate Pastors are not expected to meet with individuals more than once, regarding a crisis situation.

Prayer (adults only)

• Associate Pastors are responsible for developing a follow-up system for members of Cornerstone Fellowship, who request prayer for themselves or others. 

• The follow-up system can be in the form of a visit, phone call, text, or email.

Baptisms

• Associate Pastors are responsible for the baptism process and will baptize all adults.

• The Lead Pastor will baptize a select group of people, and only in special cases.

Ministry Team

• Associate Pastors are responsible for recruiting and training people to serve on the prayer team in the adult service.

• Associate Pastors must have knowledge of the criteria for being on the prayer team and must vet a person before inviting them to be on the team.

• Associate Pastors must train each person before they are allowed to participate on the prayer team.

Lead and oversee discipleship classes for new believers and members.

• Schedule, teach and/or administrate discipleship classes including Baptism, New Believers and Membership.

• Schedule, teach and/or administrate classes that encourage next steps or meet specific needs. Classes may include Financial Peace University, Divorce Care, Discovering Spiritual Gifts, etc.

Associate Pastors are expected to promote, implement, and maintain the mission and vision of  Cornerstone Fellowship, and in doing so, ensure excellence and professionalism in all aspects of ministry. Associate Pastors are expected to assist the Creative Arts Director and Co-Pastor with the planning of big event days and series.

What You Bring: 

Experience

• 5+ years of ministry experience is ideal 

• Coming from similar ministry position is acceptable

Education

• A Master’s degree from an accredited institution required 

Qualities and Traits

• A relational giant

• Solid doctrinal alignment

• A winsome, gregarious spirit

• Has an evident humble, submissive heart

• Is teachable and willing to learn

• Bible centric, focused on the Word

• A team player who values collaboration

• Willing and able to delegate

• Carries a mature emotional IQ

• Pastoral / Caring / Shepherd

• Solid preacher and communicator

• Readily available and always approachable

• Carries a “ministry of presence” everywhere

   

What it's Like to Live in Tahlequah, OK: 

Tahlequah, OK, offers a unique blend of advantages that make it an appealing place to live, work, raise a family, and retire:

1. Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, Tahlequah features stunning landscapes, rivers, and parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping abound.

2. Cultural Heritage: As the capital of the Cherokee Nation, Tahlequah has a rich cultural history. Residents can enjoy various events, museums, and festivals that celebrate Native American heritage.

3. Community Atmosphere: The town boasts a tight-knit community with friendly residents, making it easy to connect and build relationships. Family-oriented activities and local events foster a sense of belonging.

4. Affordability: The cost of living in Tahlequah is generally lower than the national average, making it easier to afford housing, groceries, and other essentials. This is particularly beneficial for families and retirees on fixed incomes.

5. Education: The area offers quality educational opportunities, with several public and private schools. Higher education options are available through institutions like Northeastern State University, which contributes to the community’s educational landscape.

6. Economic Opportunities: While it may not be a bustling metropolis, Tahlequah has a growing economy with job opportunities in education, healthcare, retail, and government, making it suitable for professionals at various stages of their careers.

7. Recreational Activities: With access to the Illinois River, Lake Tenkiller, and local parks, residents can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, boating, and hiking. The town also has recreational facilities, sports leagues, and family-friendly activities.

8. Health Care: Access to quality healthcare services is important for families and retirees. Tahlequah has several healthcare facilities, ensuring residents receive the necessary medical care.

9. Climate: The area experiences a moderate climate with four distinct seasons, offering a variety of outdoor experiences throughout the year.

Overall, Tahlequah combines a rich cultural environment, natural beauty, and a supportive community, making it a wonderful place to call home at any stage of life.