Lead Pastor/Head of Staff
Other Details
Our Mission
United Church of Cohoes exists to invite others to know Jesus, develop an authentic faith, and share God’s love in our region.
Our Vision
The vision of United Church of Cohoes is to create a community of authentic believers and to witness a region transformed by the life-changing reality of the gospel, as people come to know Jesus.
The City of Cohoes
Cohoes is a small city in the Capital Region of NY with a rich history. Based on its location, the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, it became the beginning of the Erie Canal. Known as “Spindle City,” it was a thriving textile mill city at the turn of the last century, drawing immigrant workers from all over at the time. The Capital Region continues to be a draw for immigrants of many nationalities, the world at our doorstep. Cohoes is currently going to great efforts to revitalize itself, preserving its historical nature while also developing its economic imprint. Its proximity to the Adirondacks, lakes, and rivers also makes it an appealing place for outdoor enthusiasts. Cohoes was home to many churches in the last century, particularly Catholic, serving the numerous immigrant populations working in its mills. But in 2019, the Barna Foundation ranked Albany as the 6th most post-Christian city in the nation (https://www.barna.com/research/post-christian-cities-2019/), down from 1st in 2010 (the top 8 all in NY/New England). As such, the cooperation of churches is important, as the gospel is so needed, and UCC has been part of a coalition of pastors, Protestant and Catholic, for many years, praying and partnering in ministry.
Attributes
- Follower of Jesus Christ, seeking Him in all aspects of life and reflecting His character in and beyond the walls of the Church.
- Spirit-led teaching, preaching the gospel with relevance and authenticity which reflect an in-depth understanding of God’s word, and contains real-life illustrations.
- Effective administrative skills to organize, energize, oversee, and delegate.
- Ready to provide visionary leadership, spiritual guidance, pastoral care and support to the congregation.
- Foster a culture of love, grace, and inclusivity while demonstrating empathy, compassion and confidentiality.
- Serve as an effective shepherd providing pastoral care to covenant partners and those hurting in the community.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills, both oral and written.
- Eager to foster collaboration with community leaders and pastors.
- Facilitate engaging educational opportunities, including bible studies, small groups, and workshops to deepen biblical understanding and theological reflection.
- Lead the church in scripture-founded financial growth through consistent tithing, offering, and stewardship, and explore opportunities for community-funded grants.
Qualifications
- Ordained minister with a Master of Divinity degree or equivalent theological education from an accredited institution.
- Committed to ECO’s essential tenets & polity
- Aligned with the theological traditions and values of our historic church, with a willingness to engage in ongoing dialogue and discernment.
- Committed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, sharing it with the lost and teaching it to His disciples.
Total compensation includes salary, housing, healthcare and insurance benefits, phone, travel and study allowance, and retirement as specified by ECO; A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians. See link to Church Profile above for more details.
Please see our church profile or website.
How To Apply
To apply for the position of Lead Pastor/Head of Staff, please submit a cover letter, resume, references and statement of faith to the Pastoral Nominating Committee by email:
[email protected].
In your cover letter, please address your qualifications and your vision for ministry within the United Church of Cohoes context. Applications will be accepted until position is filled with a bi monthly review. Candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted for interviews in the weeks that follow. Please be aware that a video of a recent sermon will be required as a candidate moves forward in the application process. A more detailed job description will be provided upon request.