Senior Pastor Daybreak Community Church

Kentucky Christian University; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

Kentucky Christian University is seeking a Senior Pastor who will serve as the primary spiritual leader, guiding the congregation in faith and worship. The pastor will prepare and deliver engaging sermons, provide pastoral care during needs, and oversee church programs and staff.

The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field, preferably in Theology, and experience in church leadership. Total compensation is in the range of $45,000 – $55,000, with options for part-time or bi-vocational work.

Qualifications

• Committed Christian demonstrating personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Experience in church leadership and oversight of ministry operations.
• Prior experience serving as a senior or lead pastor.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver biblically grounded sermons.
• Provide compassionate pastoral care during needs and celebrations.
• Oversee church staff and collaborate on budget and resource management.

Skills

Interpersonal communication skills

Public speaking

Writing

Compassionate and approachable

Collaborative mindset

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field

Theology degree

Seminary graduate

Job description

Senior Pastor Job Description

About Daybreak: Founded in 1996, Daybreak Community Church was established with the vision of reaching out to the lost through worship, loving relationships and relevant Biblical preaching and teaching. The mission of Daybreak is to follow the commands and teachings of Jesus Christ as found in the Bible, including making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them obedience to Jesus Christ. Daybreak exists for the following purposes:

• Evangelism — reaching the lost for Jesus Christ.
• Nurture and discipleship — teaching believers in the faith.
• Fellowship — providing opportunities to belong to a family of believers.
• Worship — giving believers opportunities for praise and adoration of Jesus Christ.

Objectives of the Position: The Senior Pastor serves as the primary spiritual leader of the congregation, guiding the church community in faith, worship, and Christian living. Central to this role is the preparation and delivery of a meaningful, biblically grounded sermon each week that challenges, encourages, and inspires the congregation in their walk with Christ.

The Senior Pastor is responsible for the planning and organization of Sunday morning worship services, ensuring that each gathering is a welcoming, Spirit‑led experience that fosters reverence, connection, and spiritual growth among members and visitors alike. This includes collaborating with worship teams, volunteers, and church staff to create services that are thoughtfully structured and aligned with the mission and values of the church.

Beyond the pulpit, the Senior Pastor is called to walk alongside the congregation through all seasons of life. This includes officiating weddings, conducting funeral and memorial services, and performing baptisms — honoring the sacred milestones that mark the spiritual journey of each member. The Pastor is also expected to be a compassionate, available presence during times of need, including hospital and home visits, offering prayer, comfort, and counsel to those facing illness, grief, or hardship.

In all aspects of this role, the Senior Pastor embodies a servant‑hearted approach to ministry, building genuine relationships within the congregation and nurturing a church culture rooted in love, grace, and community.

Key Responsibilities

Preaching and Teaching: Prepare and deliver engaging, biblically grounded sermons for weekly worship and special occasions.

Lead and/or facilitate Bible studies, discipleship classes, and educational programs that promote spiritual growth.

Foster a deep understanding of Scripture, theology, and doctrine among the congregation.

Oversee the planning and execution of worship services, programs, and events.

Pastoral Care

Provide compassionate pastoral care to individuals and families during times of need, crisis, and celebration.

Visit the sick, counsel those in need, officiate weddings and funerals, and offer spiritual guidance and support.

Cultivate a culture of care within the church, encouraging members to support one another.

Administration and Operations

Oversee church staff in collaboration with the Board of Elders.

Collaborate with the Board of Elders on budget, financial stewardship, and resource management.

Ensure compliance with church policies and procedures.

Qualifications

Be a committed Christian who demonstrates a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.

Agree with and be willing to uphold Daybreak’s Doctrinal and Ministry Identity Statement.

Education & Experience Requirements

Have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, preferably in a related field, or related equivalent experience.

Prefer graduate of Bible College with Theology degree or similar.

Prefer seminary graduate.

Demonstrated experience in church leadership, including oversight of ministry operations, staff development, and strategic direction of a congregation. Prior experience serving in a senior or lead pastor role, or in a significant leadership capacity within a church setting, is preferred.

Skills & Attributes

Exhibit interpersonal communication skills, public speaking, and writing.

Be able to provide spiritual leadership, discipleship, encouragement, and direction for the staff and volunteers, promoting an atmosphere of Christ-centered unity.

A heart for people — compassionate, approachable, and relational.

Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and church leadership.

Commitment to personal spiritual growth and ongoing professional development.

Compensation & Benefits

Total compensation in the range of $45,000 – $55,000.

We are open to this role being filled on a part‑time or bi‑vocational basis. We recognize that many gifted spiritual leaders also feel called to serve in other professional capacities, and we welcome candidates who wish to balance pastoral ministry with outside vocational commitments. The specific schedule and expectations can be discussed and tailored to fit the needs of both the congregation and the candidate.