Caruthersville Wesleyan Church

Lead Pastor

Full-Time

Lead Pastor Position Title: Full Time Lead Pastor Location: Church of 75–100 in Southeast Missouri (about an hour North of Memphis, TN) Church Size: Church of 75–100 Church Overview Caruthersville Wesleyan Church exists to "nurture a diverse and welcoming local community, committed to following fearlessly wherever God is leading us and making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of Caruthersville and the world." We are a close-knit, community-oriented congregation with a strong spirit of unity, generosity, and prayer. We are committed to growing in discipleship, expanding our reach in the community, and developing the next generation of leaders. Position Summary The Lead Pastor will provide spiritual, visionary, and organizational leadership to the congregation. This individual will shepherd the church through a season of growth by building relationships, developing leaders, strengthening discipleship pathways, and increasing community engagement. Primary Responsibilities 1. Spiritual Leadership - Preach and teach the Word of God with clarity, relevance, and biblical integrity. - Lead the congregation in prayer and spiritual formation. - Model a Spirit-filled life of holiness and discipleship. - Provide pastoral care, counseling, and visitation. 2. Vision & Leadership Development - Cast and implement a clear vision aligned with the mission of the church. - Equip and empower leaders (Ephesians 4 model). - Develop systems for identifying and mentoring emerging leaders. - Encourage broader participation beyond the same core volunteers. 3. Discipleship & Church Growth - Establish and lead discipleship pathways for: - New believers - Membership development - Ongoing spiritual growth - Foster measurable growth in attendance and engagement (short- and long-term goals identified by the church). - Create opportunities for young adults and families to connect. 4. Community Engagement - Be visible and active in the local community. - Participate in community partnerships (schools, ministerial alliance, outreach efforts). - Lead outreach initiatives that connect unchurched individuals to Christ. 5. Youth & Next Generation Focus - Support and prioritize a vibrant and growing youth and children's ministry development. - Encourage youth involvement in church leadership and service. - Champion long-term vision such as a multi-use youth/community activity center. 6. Administration & Stewardship - Provide oversight of church operations, staff, and volunteers. - Promote financial stewardship and responsible budgeting. - Work collaboratively with the Local Board of Administration. - Ensure alignment, accountability, and healthy church systems. Desired Qualifications & Characteristics Spiritual & Personal Demonstrates strong personal faith, integrity, and biblical grounding. Prayer-oriented and Spirit-led. Maintains a healthy family life and serves as a role model. Leadership & Ministry Skills - Strong, relational leader who can build trust quickly. - Effective communicator and relatable preacher. - Equipper—not a "one-person ministry" mindset. - Able to delegate and develop others. Relational & Community Fit - Approachable, likeable, and able to connect across all age groups. - Comfortable in a small-town/community context. - Visible and respected in the broader community. Ministry Strengths (Priority Areas Identified by Church) - Leadership - Teaching/Preaching - Counseling and pastoral care - Community engagement - Discipleship development Preferred Experience & Education - Ministry experience in a local church setting (preferred). - Theological training is beneficial but not required. - Demonstrated ability to lead growing or developing ministries. Key Outcomes (First 1–3 Years) Year 1 - Build strong relationships and trust within the congregation. - Establish consistent worship and ministry rhythms. - Launch or strengthen membership and discipleship processes. Years 2–3 - Increase attendance and membership. - Strengthen youth and children's ministries. - Develop leadership pipeline and volunteer engagement. - Begin progress toward facility and community initiatives. Accountability The Lead Pastor will be accountable to the Local Board of Administration and aligned with the mission and doctrine of The Wesleyan Church. Compensation - Salary: Full-time - Benefits: Housing, health insurance, pension, paid vacation Application Process Interested candidates should submit the following: - A resume detailing education, experience, and qualifications. - A cover letter expressing your interest in the position. Submission Please send your application materials to Tri-State District Office at tsdoffice@tsdwc.org or mail your application to: P.O. Box 3643 Bartlesville OK 74006 We look forward to welcoming a new pastor to our church family who will help us grow in faith and serve our community with love and dedication. Thank you for considering this opportunity to join our vibrant and welcoming congregation. Employment Type Full-time Contact Dr. Devon Smith Phone 918-333-3404 Email tsdoffice@tsdwc.org Organization Caruthersville Wesleyan Church Address 2601 Playground Road Caruthersville, MO 63830