Position: Lead Pastor

Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Desert Hope Lutheran Church in Tucson, AZ seeks a full-time Lead Pastor to shepherd the congregation with Gospel-centered teaching and strategic vision. The role combines pastoral care with executive leadership to empower members for ministry and mission.

The Lead Pastor will lead worship, oversee spiritual growth initiatives, and collaborate with staff and leaders to advance discipleship, outreach, and community impact.

Qualifications

• Ordained Lutheran Pastor or eligible for rostered ministry.
• Gospel-centered and scripture-based theology guiding ministry.
• Relational leader with strong communication and staff relationships.
• Equipping mindset to mobilize gifts within the congregation.
• Proven administrator with experience in staff leadership and planning.

Responsibilities

• Preach the Word with clarity, lead worship, and provide pastoral care through life milestones.
• Cast vision and execute a strategic ministry plan to deepen discipleship and expand outreach.
• Recruit, mentor, and empower staff and volunteers to fulfill ministry priorities.
• Collaborate with Leadership Council to oversee church administration and ministry operations.

Skills

Ordained Pastor

Gospel-Centered

Relational Leadership

Equipping & Innovation

Administrative Leadership

Job description

Desert Hope Lutheran Church | Shepherd, Inspire, Lead.

Is God calling you to lead a vibrant congregation into its next chapter of faith and impact?

At Desert Hope Lutheran Church, we are seeking a full-time Spirit-led, biblically grounded, and visionary Lead Pastor who loves Jesus, treasures the Gospel, and feels called to equip God's people for meaningful ministry. If you are an experienced shepherd ready to combine compassionate care with strategic vision, we invite you to explore this opportunity with us.

WHY DESERT HOPE?

We are a warm, welcoming community of believers dedicated to worshiping faithfully, growing spiritually, and sharing Christ's love locally and globally. As our Lead Pastor, you won't just oversee a church—you will help shape a thriving environment where disciples are made, gifts are unleashed, and lives are transformed.

THE OPPORTUNITY & VISION

As Lead Pastor, you will serve as both our primary spiritual shepherd and executive leader. We are looking for someone to bring fresh energy, creative innovation, and collaborative leadership to our church family.

Core Focus Areas:

• Vibrant Preaching & Pastoral Care
  • Faithfully preach the Word of God - clearly distinguishing Law and Gospel and administer the Sacraments.
  • Lead uplifting public worship and offer heartfelt pastoral care through life's milestones (baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and funerals).
  • Guide our spiritual growth initiatives, including adult/youth education, stewardship, and worship arts.
• Visionary Leadership & Discipleship
  • Cast vision and execute a strategic ministry plan that deepens discipleship and expands outreach.
  • Equip, mentor, and empower members to identify and activate their unique spiritual gifts.
  • Extend God's Kingdom in our local community, across the nation, and around the world.
• Inspire, supervise, and support a talented staff team (including our Office Manager, Director of Worship Arts, and Family Ministries Coordinator).
• Partner effectively with the Leadership Council and Executive Committee to oversee administration, personnel, and ministry operations.

WHO YOU ARE

• Ordained Lutheran Pastor (or eligible for rostered ministry) ready to make Desert Hope your home congregation.
• Gospel-Centered & Scripture-Based: Deeply rooted in love for Jesus, sound theology, and biblical truth.
• Relational Leader: An active, attentive listener and compelling communicator who builds strong relationships with staff and parishioners alike.
• Equipping & Innovative Mindset: A creative self-starter who brings new ideas and enthusiasm for mobilizing the congregation for ministry.
• Proven Administrator: Experienced in organizational management, staff leadership, and strategic planning.