Associate Pastor: Discipleship & Community Leader

Orchard Church); Westford (MA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Orchard Church in Westford, MA, seeks an Associate Pastor to shepherd and lead the church alongside the Lead Pastor. This role focuses on discipleship, community, and leadership development across Orchard, not just program management.

The Associate Pastor will cultivate relational presence, teach Scripture, and help grow a robust discipleship pathway while developing healthy leadership across ministry areas. A strong theological grounding and demonstrated teaching ability are essential.

Qualifications

• Graduate or seminary training in theology and/or ministry.
• Gifted teaching with demonstrated or developing preaching ability.
• Experience in pastoral leadership is valuable but not strictly required.

Responsibilities

• Shepherd, teach, develop, and lead Orchard with emphasis on discipleship and community.
• Lead in pastoral presence, relationship-building, and pastoral care.
• Develop and multiply volunteer leaders, and broaden Orchard's Discipleship Pathway.
• Collaborate with Lead Pastor and staff on ministry planning and strategy.
• Identify and develop leaders to carry major ministry areas.

Skills

Genuine care for people

Biblical/theological grounding

Graduate/seminary training

Gifted teaching/preaching

Initiative

Active listening

Humility / emotional maturity

Leadership development

Team collaboration

Long-term commitment

Education

Graduate or seminary training in theology/ministry

Job description

Orchard Church in Westford, MA, seeks an Associate Pastor to shepherd and lead the church alongside the Lead Pastor. This role focuses on discipleship, community, and leadership development across Orchard, not just program management.

The Associate Pastor will cultivate relational presence, teach Scripture, and help grow a robust discipleship pathway while developing healthy leadership across ministry areas. A strong theological grounding and demonstrated teaching ability are essential.