Position: Pastor

LCMC; Osakis (MN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

LCMC's Salem and Sauk Valley Lutheran Parish in central Minnesota is seeking a part-time pastor (20–25 hours per week) to proclaim the gospel, joyfully administer the Sacraments, and collaborate in local and international mission work.

Ideal candidates hold or pursue an MDiv from an accredited Lutheran seminary, are certified with LCMC or pursuing it, and seek endorsement with or without the Augustana District. Regular duties include worship leadership, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and care.

Qualifications

• MDiv from an accredited Lutheran seminary or current pursuit.
• Certification with Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ is required or may be pursued upon seminary completion.
• Endorsement by Augustana District or willingness to seek endorsement.

Responsibilities

• Regularly pray for the congregation and its ministries.
• Prepare and lead Sunday worship and special services throughout the church year.
• Preside at baptisms, weddings, and funerals.
• Teach Bible studies and provide confirmation instruction.
• Participate in Vacation Bible School.
• Offer pastoral care, including regular visits to homebound members and those in need.
• Collaborate with lay leaders to support congregational life, mission, and outreach.

Skills

Pastoral leadership

Public speaking

Bible study facilitation

Education

Master of Divinity (MDiv)

Lutheran seminary accreditation/pursuit

Job description

The Salem and Sauk Valley Lutheran Churches are small rural congregations in central Minnesota, located near the city of Osakis and celebrating more than 140 years of faithful Gospel proclamation. Though four miles apart, the two churches function as one parish, gathering weekly for traditional worship and proclaiming our faith through Word and Sacraments, liturgy, prayer, song, preaching, Bible study, and shared service. With average Sunday attendance of 40–50 worshipers, we enjoy strong fellowship through joint Sunday school, choir, VBS, Bible study groups, and parish events. We alternate worship sites weekly and celebrate communion every Sunday. While each congregation maintains its own finances, property, and mission commitments, our ministry life is fully shared. A beautiful, modern, and spacious five-bedroom, 2½-bath parsonage with an attached two-stall garage, built in 1995, is located across the road from Sauk Valley Church.

About Our Position

The Salem and Sauk Valley Lutheran Parish is seeking a part-time pastor (20–25 hours per week) to proclaim the good news of Jesus’ forgiveness, joyfully administer the Sacraments, and partner with us in local and international mission work. Ideal candidates will hold, or be pursuing, a Master of Divinity degree from an accredited Lutheran seminary. Interested candidates may also be considered for a contract call provided they subscribe to LCMC’s Statement of Faith and Pastoral Admonition, including the characteristic practices of the sacraments in the Lutheran tradition.Certification with Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ is required or may be pursued upon completion of seminary studies. As a member congregation of the Augustana District, we also desire candidates who are currently endorsed or willing to seek endorsement. Key job responsibilities will include:

• Regularly pray for the congregation and its ministries.
• Prepare and lead Sunday worship and special services throughout the church year.
• Preside at baptisms, weddings, and funerals.
• Teach Bible studies and provide confirmation instruction.
• Participate in Vacation Bible School.
• Offer pastoral care, including regular visits to homebound members, the elderly, and those in need.
• Collaborate with lay leaders to support congregational life, mission, and outreach.

About Our Community

Osakis, MN, is a welcoming community of about 1,700 residents, nestled on the southern shore of beautiful Lake Osakis. The lake’s public beach, boat landing, and picnic areas make it a hub for recreation and community life. Osakis features several parks, and the city serves as a gateway to the 55-mile Central Lakes State Trail and the Lake Wobegon Trail, offering year‑round opportunities for biking, hiking, and snowmobiling. Local schools, active civic organizations, and a vibrant Chamber of Commerce contribute to a strong small‑town community. Conveniently located near I‑94, Osakis is roughly a 2-hour drive from both the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area and Fargo, ND, with Alexandria only 15 minutes away.