Lead Pastor

Bendigo Church of Christ At Bendigo Church of Christ, we affirm the Bible as the inspired; Greater Bendigo; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Bendigo Church of Christ in Bendigo, VIC, Australia, seeks a Lead Pastor to guide the church’s vision and spiritual direction. The role involves shepherding the congregation, equipping members for ministry, and leading in mission with a Christ-centered approach.

You will work with the Associate Pastor and church leaders to foster unity, healthy ministry practices, and vibrant community engagement, while modeling servant leadership in a local context.

Qualifications

• Pastoral leadership experience and maturity.
• Ability to teach Scripture clearly and apply it to daily life.
• Experience developing leaders and teams within a church setting.

Responsibilities

• Provide spiritual leadership and shepherd the congregation.
• Collaborate with staff and ministry teams to implement vision.
• Pastoral care, discipleship, and community engagement.

Skills

Pastoral leadership

Team development

Discipleship

Biblical teaching

Education

Theology/Ministry degree

Endorsed Churches of Christ Vic/Tas credentials

Job description

Bendigo Church of Christ At Bendigo Church of Christ, we affirm the Bible as the inspired – Bendigo VIC

Bendigo Church of Christ prayerfully seeks a Lead Pastor whose calling, character and experience align with the life and mission of our church community.

The Lead Pastor will provide spiritual leadership to Bendigo Church of Christ, shepherding the congregation in faithful discipleship, equipping God’s people for ministry and leading the church in fulfilling Christ’s mission in Bendigo and beyond. Working collaboratively with the Associate Pastor, Church Council, ministry leaders and volunteers, the Lead Pastor will nurture a healthy, Christ-centred church culture characterised by spiritual maturity, unity, servant leadership and meaningful community engagement.

The Lead Pastor role is a full-time position, and it is only open to Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents. Renumeration and all employment entitlements for this position will be in accordance with Church of Christ Vic/Tas endorsement. The information below outlines the qualities, qualifications and application processes for those sensing God’s leading to explore this ministry opportunity.

Bendigo Church of Christ looks forward to welcoming the person God is calling to walk alongside us in the next season of ministry, growth and faithful service. We invite those who sense God’s prompting toward this opportunity to prayerfully consider applying.

Application Requirements

Applicants will need to include the following sections in their application to be considered for shortlisting.

Cover Letter

• Personal faith journey, and how they knew God was calling them to this role
• Experience in biblical teaching and leadership
• Collaborative leadership experience and team-building ability
• Heart for discipleship, mission and community engagement

Response to Key Selection Criteria

Applicants will need to respond to each Key Selection Criteria (outlined below) by providing clear, practical examples that demonstrate their experience, approach and effectiveness in these areas of ministry. Minimum 2-page response.

Resume

Key Contact Details

• Email address and mobile phone number

Theological Qualifications

• Theological training appropriate for pastoral ministry Degree in Theology/Ministry desirable.
• Endorsed Churches of Christ Vic/Tas credentials, or progressing towards endorsement

Pastoral Experience

• Demonstrated pastoral leadership experience of three to five years, preferred
• Experience leading teams and developing leaders
• Commitment to ChurchSafe ministry practices

Links to Recent Sermons

• Include at least 2 links to recent sermons you have preached (video or audio files)

Other Relevant Experience or Qualifications

• Other relevant work experience and other relevant qualifications

Referee Details

• Names and contact details of three referees and why these referees have been selected.
• Applicants may choose not to supply these contact details with their application, but they will need to be provided to the panel at the time of your interview, if shortlisted.

Application Process

To enquire about the position please contact: Simon Risson (03) 9488 8***

Applications close on Friday 4 December 2026

Start Date: This will be negotiated with successful applicant, but preferably by start of Feb 2027

Lead Pastor – Key Selection Criteria

Applicants are asked to outline how they have demonstrated the following Key Selection Criteria throughout their pastoral ministry; providing clear, practical examples for each of the six criteria. (Min 2pg response –11 pt font)

The dot points listed under each Key Selection Criterion are intended as a guide to the qualities and ministry strengths we are seeking.

Applicants are not expected to address every dot point but are encouraged to highlight those that best reflect their gifts, experience and approach to ministry.

Key Selection Criteria 2 – Spiritual Leadership and Discipleship Helping our church grow in faith, prayer and Christ-like living.

• Models a life of prayer and dependence on God.
• Helps people deepen their understanding and application of Scripture.
• Encourages spiritual growth in both new and established believers.
• Demonstrates wisdom and discernment when guiding others.
• Equips people to live out their faith in everyday life.

Key Selection Criteria 2 – Preaching and Teaching

Communicating God’s Word clearly and meaningfully.

• Explains Scripture accurately and in its biblical context.
• Offers preaching that encourages, challenges and points people to Jesus.
• Connects biblical teaching with everyday life and contemporary questions.
• Communicates clearly with people of different ages and backgrounds.
• Equips others to teach and lead Bible studies or small groups.

Key Selection Criteria 3 – Pastoral Care and Relationship Building

Building trust and caring for people through the different seasons of life.

• Handles disagreements with emotional maturity and a commitment to reconciliation.
• Is approachable and listens carefully to others.
• Builds relationships across generations and backgrounds.
• Shows compassion towards people experiencing grief, hardship or uncertainty.
• Develops a shared approach to pastoral care, with appropriate boundaries and support.

Key Selection Criteria 4 – Leadership Development and Team Ministry

Equipping people to serve; and building healthy ministry teams.

• Works collaboratively with church leaders, staff and volunteers.
• Recognises and develops the gifts of others.
• Mentors emerging leaders and creates opportunities for them to serve.
• Delegates responsibility and supports people in their ministry roles.
• Guides change thoughtfully, with clear communication and respect for others.

Key Selection Criteria 5 – Mission and Community Engagement

Helping church members share the good news of Jesus; and serving the wider community.

• Equips and encourages people to share their faith respectfully and confidently.
• Helps newcomers feel welcome, builds belonging and offers pathways to explore faith.
• Leads the church in reaching people who have little or no connection with a church.
• Encourages practical service to people experiencing disadvantage or isolation.
• Builds meaningful connections within the Bendigo community.

Key Selection Criteria 6 – Governance and Shared Vision

Leading responsibly, in partnership with the church’s recognised leadership.

• Helps the church develop a clear, shared vision and realistic ministry priorities.
• Welcomes feedback and communicates openly and appropriately.
• Works constructively within the church’s governance and accountability structures.
• Exercises sound judgement and responsible stewardship of resources.
• Upholds safe ministry practices and healthy professional boundaries.