Pastor – Shared Ministry

United Methodist Church; Carrington (ND); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Parsonage provided

Job summary

United Methodist Church seeks a compassionate pastor to lead two rural North Dakota congregations, one Methodist and one Lutheran, providing spiritual leadership and pastoral care while honoring both traditions. The role emphasizes relationship-building within the churches and the surrounding community.

The successful candidate will preach biblically grounded sermons, perform baptisms, weddings, funerals, and outreach, collaborate with church councils, and actively engage neighbors.

Qualifications

• Ordained or credentialed within the Methodist or Lutheran tradition.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to provide compassionate pastoral care.
• Willingness to live and serve in a rural community.

Responsibilities

• Lead regular worship services for both congregations in keeping with each church's traditions.
• Prepare and deliver biblically grounded sermons and messages.
• Lead baptisms, confirmations, weddings, funerals, communion, and other faith ceremonies.
• Provide spiritual guidance, prayer, and encouragement to individuals and families.
• Help each congregation grow in faith, fellowship, and service.

Skills

Pastoral leadership

Communication

Counseling

Community outreach

Interfaith collaboration

Teamwork

Education

Ordained or credentialed (Methodist/Lutheran)

Job description

We are seeking a compassionate, faith-centered Pastor to serve two rural North Dakota congregations, one Methodist and one Lutheran. This position provides spiritual leadership and pastoral care to both congregations while respecting and honoring the traditions, practices, and identities of each faith community.

The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, approachable and compassionate, and committed to building meaningful relationships within the churches and the surrounding rural community. This position offers an opportunity to become an active and valued part of two close-knit congregations and the communities they serve.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead regular worship services for both congregations in accordance with each church's traditions and practices.
• Prepare and deliver meaningful, biblically grounded sermons and messages.
• Lead baptisms, confirmations, weddings, funerals, communion, and other faith traditions and services as appropriate.
• Provide spiritual guidance, prayer, and encouragement to individuals and families.
• Help each congregation grow in faith, fellowship, and service.

Pastoral Care

• Develop strong, personal relationships with members of both congregations.
• Provide compassionate pastoral care to individuals and families during times of illness, grief, crisis, and other significant life events.
• Visit members in their homes, hospitals, care facilities, and other settings as appropriate.
• Be available to provide prayer, counseling, encouragement, and spiritual support.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Congregational Leadership

• Work collaboratively with church councils, committees, staff, and volunteers.
• Support and encourage the involvement of members in the life and ministry of the church.
• Help identify opportunities for ministry, outreach, fellowship, and community service.
• Participate in planning and supporting church activities, programs, and special events.
• Encourage strong communication and cooperation between church leadership and congregation members.

Community Engagement

• Become an active and welcoming presence within the local community.
• Build relationships with community members, organizations, schools, and other faith communities.
• Represent the churches positively through participation in community events and activities.
• Encourage both congregations to serve and support the needs of their surrounding communities.

Leadership Across Two Congregations

• Recognize and respect the distinct traditions, history, and culture of both the Methodist and Lutheran congregations.
• Balance the needs and responsibilities of both churches while maintaining a consistent pastoral presence.
• Foster a spirit of cooperation, respect, and shared ministry between the two congregations.
• Communicate effectively with leadership from both churches regarding schedules, services, pastoral needs, and ministry priorities.

Qualifications

• Ordained or appropriately credentialed within the Methodist or Lutheran tradition, or otherwise qualified to serve both congregations.
• Strong understanding of Christian faith, scripture, and pastoral ministry.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to provide compassionate pastoral care.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with church leadership and volunteers.
• Comfortable serving in a small-town, rural community and becoming actively involved in the community.
• Respectful and appreciative of different Christian traditions and practices.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Personal Characteristics

The successful candidate will be:

• Warm, approachable, and compassionate.
• A strong listener who genuinely enjoys getting to know people.
• Comfortable working with people of all ages and backgrounds.
• Flexible and willing to adapt to the needs of two unique congregations.
• A positive and encouraging leader.
• Comfortable working in a close-knit rural community.
• Committed to building relationships rather than simply filling a role.
• A person of strong Christian faith who demonstrates integrity, humility, and a servant's heart.

What We Offer

This is an opportunity to serve two welcoming, close-knit rural congregations while becoming an important part of the communities they call home. The position provides the opportunity to build lasting relationships, provide meaningful spiritual leadership, and make a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and the broader community.

Provided Parsonage

Enjoy the comforts and convenience of a provided parsonage home located within walking distance of the primary worship location. The parsonage offers a comfortable place to call home while serving the congregations and becoming part of the local community. All utilities and insurance for the home are included as part of this benefit.