Interim Senior Pastor Position

St. Simons Presbyterian Church is currently seeking a long-term interim pastor to lead our talented staff and active congregation as we search for a new senior pastor. SSPC – located midway between Jacksonville, Fl. and Savannah, Ga. on the beautiful resort island of St. Simons – is a growing and thriving church of about 800 members, committed to serving each other and the surrounding community. The nearly 50 new members in 2021 point to the family-oriented, welcoming, and politically diverse congregation, as well as the newly renovated sanctuary, as key reasons for joining. We are looking for a compassionate and people-oriented pastor, highly experienced in pastoral care and willing to engage with the broader community. Transitional ministry training preferred.

Brief Church Mission Statement:
 
To love others as God loves us. 

What is the congregation’s or organization’s vision for ministry?
 
We are a welcoming and service-minded congregation with countless ministry opportunities designed to leave a mark of God’s love on the hearts of those who participate. There is a place for everyone at Wednesday evening programs and meals, Sunday School classes and Bible studies, Days of Service and mission opportunities within our community and abroad, and countless other congregational care touch
points.

Our growing congregation enjoys connecting with each other, praying together, and listening for the word of God through challenging sermons, relevant to the current world circumstances.

​How do you feel called to reach out to address the emerging needs of your community or constituency?
 
A congregation of nearly 800 members from all walks of life, SSPC is a community of faith who lives life together. We have an active Session, Diaconate and committees that stay informed of the emerging and changing needs of our congregation, our broader community, and our mission partners around the world.

Our dedicated congregational care team, led by our pastors and staff members, keep their fingers on the pulse of our congregation and reach out to members experiencing celebrations, challenging times, and everything in between. From small acts like homemade muffins to long-term, coordinated assistance, we hope members of all ages and all visitors feel welcome and loved. Our ministry also includes a thriving preschool with children ranging in age from 8 months to 4 years.
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In addition to congregational service efforts, our BRIDGE Mission Program welcomes youth and college groups from other congregations to share our beautiful locale and teach the importance of Creation Care.

We are a leader in the Golden Isles community, supporting countless nonprofit organizations through financial contributions and tangible acts of service. We strive to be a unifying force in our community, bringing together people of other denominations to spread Christian love and create positive change in southeast Georgia.​ 
 
How will this position help you to reach your vision and mission goals?
 
A long-term interim pastor will collaborate with our talented staff and lead our active congregation through this transition as we seek to find our next senior pastor. Though dedicated staff members and congregational teams spearhead many of our mission areas, the long-term interim pastor should serve as a resource, sounding board, cheerleader and partner to ensure SSPC’s wide-reaching ministry continues.
 
Provide a description of the characteristics needed by the person who is open to being called to this congregation and/or organization.
 
SSPC is seeking a people-focused, compassionate interim pastor, highly experienced in pastoral care and able to guide our congregation through this transitional time. This person should be a strong and collaborative leader, gifted administrator, talented and challenging preacher, and willing to engage with the broader community. Transitional ministry training preferred.
 
What specific tasks, assignments, and program areas will this person have responsibility?
 
This interim pastor will lead a staff of 13, including an Interim Associate Pastor and Parish Associate Pastor for Congregational Care &  Visitation, and serve as Session moderator. He or she will deliver a sermon and children’s message for two services on Sunday mornings (approximately 3 Sundays/month), administer the sacraments, officiate weddings and funerals, provide pastoral care, and support the ongoing work and programs at the church. The year-long contract may be renewed annually, as needed.​
 
Leadership Competencies: 

• People-oriented
• Compassionate
• Strong leader
• Community-minded
• Sense of humor
• Challenging preacher
• Good communicator

Interested? Submit Resume Here!

More About SSPC & Who We Are!