Other Details

Church of the Beloved (“COTB”) was established in 2012 on the near west side of Chicago. The church’s name comes from our vision and mission to see the Gospel transform people into Spirit-filled disciples, who know they are the beloved of God because of Christ alone.

In 2013, we planted in the heart of downtown Chicago, praying and working for hope and renewal in the city of Chicago and reaching the nations. Our congregation is multi-ethnic and primarily consists of young professionals and young families. Our average Sunday attendance is 125 adults/week. 

Currently, our congregation is led by two recently affirmed lay Elders and one pastor who is soon to depart the Chicago area (on good terms), but we are looking for a permanent on-staff Pastor to serve alongside our Elders, Staff, Board of Directors and Deacons in shepherding our congregation and carrying out the vision of COTB. 

N.B. COTB leadership is currently discussing whether to propose a change to our bylaws which would enable women to serve as pastors and/or elders. At the time of posting, this discussion is ongoing, but we would encourage any interested parties to apply regardless.

For more information, please visit cotb.life.

Key Duties and Responsibilities (include, but are not limited to):

Preaching 

• Effectively and compassionately communicates the Gospel-driven vision of the church; and
• Assumes responsibility as the main preacher for Sunday worship (75% of preaching), and with Elder support, plans out sermon series and scripture studies for the congregation to actively engage with God’s Word. 

Member Care 

• Collaborates with Elders, Deacons, and other church leaders to understand the needs of the congregation and ensures biblically faithful shepherding of church members;
• Maintains strict confidentiality in members’ personal matters, seeking permission when advisable to involve professionals in the care of members and attendees in need or crisis; and
• Officiates weddings, funerals, administers communion, baptisms, and dedication of children.

Leadership and Organizational Development 

• Embraces a team approach that strengthens collaboration and team building among Staff, Elders, Deacons, and lay leaders of the church;
• Directs staff and ministry priorities via regular meetings and evaluations in collaboration with the Elders for effectiveness in shaping community and congregational participation with our church vision;
• Alongside the Elders, nurtures the mental and spiritual health of Staff, Elders, Deacons, and lay leaders within the church; and 
• Provides oversight, direction, and recommendations with Staff, Elders, Deacons, and the Board of Directors regarding the church budget.

Qualities:

• Is a servant-minded, emotionally mature leader who is humble, teachable, approachable, and empowers others;
• Is committed to healthy team dynamics, including conflict resolution, taking responsibility for failure, pursuit of excellence, and open communication;
• Breeds a positive, collaborative, and innovative ministry culture; and
• Commits to personal holiness, growth in grace, reconciliation in relationships.

Accountability/Self-Care:

• Attends well to their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being and family responsibilities;
• Personal commitment to prayer and gospel transformation in all areas of life;
• Participates in weekly Sabbath rest and seasonal renewal;
• Participates in an annual job review with the Elder Board and the Board of Directors; and
• Personally engages in a church small group for community and discipleship.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Meets the spiritual and personal qualifications of an elder found in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1;
• Has a minimum of 5 years experience in ministry
• Substantial training in Bible/Theology
• Is in good standing with churches at which they have previously served;
• Enthusiastically embraces the vision, mission, and values of COTB;
• Adheres to the Statement of Faith as outlined in the COTB website;
• Has U.S. work authorization and a clean background check.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Seminary degree (M.Div. or Th.M.) or comparable education/experience
• 10+ years experience in pastoral ministry
• Demonstrates relational skills in cross-cultural contexts;
• Has the ability to live and thrive in a large city context with a young, diverse congregation (i.e., is conversant with urban ministry challenges (e.g., transience, cross-cultural issues, socio-economic diversity, etc.));
• Has excellent written, oral, interpersonal and presentation skills; and
• Has strong planning, problem solving, and decision-making skills

Benefits:

• Salaried position
• Health, dental insurance
• Discretionary ministry and training budget  
• Vacation/sabbatical allotment
• Retirement plan