Lead Pastor

Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ; Iowa (LA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Harbor of Joy Lutheran Church in Milford, Iowa, seeks its next pastor to lead worship, teach God’s Word, and provide spiritual guidance to a multigenerational congregation.

The role emphasizes biblical preaching, pastoral care, and collaborative leadership within a welcoming community that values outreach locally and globally.

The ideal candidate is ordained, with at least two years of experience, and a heart for mission and disciple-making.

Qualifications

• Ordained minister in good standing.
• Prefer LCMC certified; willing to pursue certification.
• Minimum of 2 years of pastoral experience.
• Strong preaching, pastoral care, and leadership commitment.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Dedication to extending God’s Kingdom locally and globally.

Responsibilities

• Community involvement and relational outreach.
• Weekly sermons and one Sunday service.
• Pastoral care and visitor follow-up with new members.
• Greet visitors and foster engagement in the church.
• Lead Bible study and youth activities (Vacation Bible Camp/Youth director collaboration).
• Coordinate with youth director for summer programs and camps.

Skills

Ordained minister

Certification (LCMC)

Pastoral care

Congregational leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Kingdom focus

Education

Ordained ministry

Job description

Please pray about this exceptional opportunity regarding being our next pastor in Milford, Iowa. Nestled in the beautiful Iowa Great Lakes (Okoboji) region, our community is home to the historic Arnold’s Amusement Park, Roof Garden, and Preservation Plaza area rich in history, recreation, and natural beauty. We encourage you to explore the links below.

We are currently served by an Intentional Interim Pastor who is strengthening our processes and preparing the way for our next permanent pastor. With this foundation in place, your focus will be to preach God's Word, provide spiritual leadership, and create a multigenerational congregation.

History of Harbor of Joy

Harbor of Joy Lutheran Church was established during the summer of 2010. The name of the congregation was chosen intentionally with the hope that it would express both the present and future atmosphere of the congregation. We want to be a sanctuary from the storms of life, a place where we can feel the presence of God and be wrapped in the security of his promises. Our desire is to be that kind of a welcoming place for anyone who might come into our fellowship to worship with us. We hope and pray that you will be able to sense the presence for Christ among us and feel the warmth of his love, even though the storms might continue outside our walls. We want to be a place of comfort and peace.

Vision Statement

“Be a welcoming safe harbor to all ages with a bright, modern, warm, and caring atmosphere where God’s biblical word will be taught to all ages and experience.

levels. In today’s culture of pleasure and prosperity, Harbor of Joy is a safe refuge for restoring our sense of meaning and purpose, and to navigate the waters of life.”

Mission Statement

“Anchored in the Word, growing through worship and prayer, sharing the joy of God’s love for all.”

Purpose Statement

“Love and worship God and love and serve others.”

Qualifications

• Ordained minister in good standing.
• Prefer LCMC certified. (if not willing to get certified).
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years.
• Demonstrated commitment to biblical preaching, pastoral care, and congregational leadership.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Dedication to the mission of extending the Kingdom of God locally and globally.

Job Description and Duties

Harbor of Joy needs someone who possesses:

• ~Community involvement
• ~Weekly sermons
• ~One Sunday service a week
• ~Greet visitors and follow up on possible new members.
• ~ Pastoral Care
• ~Lead Lunch with a bunch Bible study
• ~Joy Kids-Wednesday after school program
• ~Teach with the youth director one week Vacation Bible Camp in the summer.