Church Staff Openings

Position Title: Minister of Faith Formation

Supervisor: Holy Cross Lutheran Church Council with support by the Pastor

Position Status: Program Staff/ Non-exempt/ Part Time

Application Deadline: May 1, 2025

Anticipated Start Date: June 1, 2025

The primary goal of the Minister of Faith Formation is to develop relationships with young people (0-18 years of age) and their families, and to provide leadership for ministry opportunities, including but not limited to, fellowship, learning, and service in alignment with Scripture and the Lutheran confessions. The position functions under the direction of the Faith & Learning Deacon of the Holy Cross Lutheran Church Council, and is supported by the pastor, who has the responsibility for the theological integrity of our church’s mission.

Required

+ Willingness to invest in relationships of all ages across the congregation

+ Organizational and leadership skills to plan and implement ministry opportunities

+ Ability to serve as a positive representative of Holy Cross Lutheran Church

+ Maintain confidentiality with personal information about individuals in the congregation

+ Familiarity with the policies and procedures of the congregation

+ Must pass a full background check and complete mandated reporter training

+ 18 years or older

Preferred

+ An individual pursuing education for Christian ministry to serve the church

Work Hours

+ Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. Vacation Bible School week (early August)

+ Other days/hours and location (online/on-site) to be determined in collaboration with Council and the Pastor

Benefits

+ Pay range $20-$25/hour

+ Up to 20 hours per week with additional hours to be approved by Council

+ Eligible for two weeks PTO per year (calculated as an average budgeted work-week) upon one full calendar year of employment.

+ Individuals pursuing Christian ministry are eligible for financial assistance toward their education through the Holy Cross Lutheran Church Council

Responsibilities:

Children’s Faith Formation

+ Write Faith Formation lessons rooted in Scripture and the Lutheran confessions

+ Recruit and equip weekly leaders

+ Prepare supplies and lesson plans for volunteers

+ Support lesson execution on Sunday mornings

+ Communicate with families (via newsletter, etc.)

Youth4Him

+ Recruit and equip adult leaders

+ Provide lesson plans (written or purchased), prepare supplies, support execution of weekly meeting

+ Coordinate a social and/or service outing once per month in conjunction with confirmation and high school aged-students

Confirmation Support

+ Assist pastor with administration of confirmation requirements (worship notes, service hours, additional paperwork, as well as recruiting mentors, etc.)

+ Provide teaching leadership when pastor is absent

+ Coordinate social and/or service outing in conjunction with Youth4Him and high school students

High School Youth Group

+ Recruit and foster relationship with high school students and families

+ Develop and implement weekly meeting (TBD with input from students and families)

+ Write and lead lessons rooted in Scripture and the Lutheran confessions for weekly meeting

+ Coordinate social and/or service outing in conjunction with Youth4Him and Confirmation students

VBS Coordination

+ Plan the lessons and activities in collaboration with the pastor

+ Recruit volunteers for music, crafts, classroom lessons, food prep/serve, skit, and other needs based on lessons and activities

+ Coordinate logistics for the week (schedule, activities rotations, etc)

+ Support volunteers during VBS week and fill in where needed

Administration

+ In collaboration with the Faith & Learning Deacon, will oversee the Youth checking account

+ Provide regular communication in conjunction with Office Manager via eNews, newsletter, bulletin

+ Other ministerial opportunities may be offered as additional support to the pastor and congregation

To apply submit the following by May 1, 2025 to [email protected]

• Letter of application
• Resume
• Names and contact information for three (3) references

^{(posted 04.14.2025)}

We are looking for a full-time Pastor rooted in Holy Scripture and Lutheran confession, a desire for shaping the present through community leadership & touching the future with dynamic children & youth ministry.

Our Parish

• Currently being led by an Intentional Interim Pastor, we are prepared for the call process and identifying our next full-time Pastor.
• Our three-point Parish (First Lutheran Church, Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church, and Lake City Lutheran Church) is a member of the Augustana District and consists of approximately 650 active members.
• We value growth through youth and family ministry: 

• • Sunday school program for approximately 90 children
  • Confirmation classes for our 7^th & 8^th grades 
  • Active High School youth group
• Located in Marshall County, in Northeast South Dakota. Britton, SD is the county seat and has a population of about 1300 people.
• Click below to learn more about our Parish: 

• • Facebook
  • Britton Lutheran Parish

• Check out our Community: 
  • Britton Area Chamber Facebook
  • Britton-Hecla School Facebook
  • Fort Sisseton State Park Facebook
  • Roy Lake State Park Facebook
  • Marshall County Healthcare Center Avera – Britton, SD

Qualifications:

• Certified with LCMC

Pastoral Services:

• Lead worship and preach from Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions during services.

• Provide instruction for second-year Confirmands and First Communion students.

• Nurture parish youth programming and support Youth Leader and Sunday School teachers.
• Provide guidance and updates on the needs and activities of the Parish with Church Council and congregations.

• Pastoral care of our congregational and community members.

• Officiate baptisms, weddings and funerals as requested.

• Pray for the Church and its members.

• Other duties important to our members and communities.

Housing:

• The Britton Lutheran Parish has a spacious Parsonage in Britton available for use by the Pastor and their family.

For Details:

• Detailed Job Description
• Or call Tyler Melroe at 605-695-3295

To Apply:

• Please email your resume and a cover letter to: Lorene Bender [email protected]
• Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

^{(posted 03.10.2025)}

‌Part 1: Congregational Information

‌History of Congregation

New Life Lutheran Church was founded in 2010 by a group of people at a crossroads. Ultimately, they decided to stand firmly in the gospel and this LCMC church body was started. They first met in member’s homes within Duluth, MN and quickly knew more space would be needed.

After a few location changes, the building pictured below would become the framework for the next chapter of New Life. Fast forward to now, New Life is beyond excited to have a new space to meet and worship. This new space was constructed in 2023 with the first service being held there in August 2023.

While New Life has had several different worship locations over the years, one thing remained the same: A God who provides!

‌Significant Trends in Demographics:

New Life is a young mission church that has steady and stable core leadership. We’ve experienced some demographic challenges with younger families. We currently have a strong base of mature congregants. The most recent constitution was accepted in June 2023.

‌Part 2: Ministry Practices, Structure, & Future

‌Worship:

New Life has a 9 AM service that blends musical styles with liturgy. We have communion weekly. Our services are live streamed on YouTube.

‌Education:

Several opportunities for Adults, with weekly Bible Studies and intermittent Adult Education after services on Sundays. We have a small youth confirmation group and a newer Sunday School option.

‌Evangelism:

To name a few opportunities, New Life offers a Good News Club after school program at a local elementary school. We participate with Operation Christmas Child yearly and also support Friends of Madagascar Mission evangelists.

‌Special Ministries/Service Ministries:

Locally New Life does donation drives throughout the year to support Damiano Center, Union Gospel Mission, Duluth Harbor Rescue Mission and New Hope for Families, a foster organization. As a congregation we serve our community in ways we are able. We support local law enforcement and first responders though an Aglow Group called Adopt-A-Cop. Global

Missions, such as Military Biblesticks and Lutheran Bible Translators are dear to our congregation and we support a variety of organizations as much as we’re able.

‌Staffing paid & volunteers:

New Life employs a full time Office administrator, and a part time Music director long with a part time custodial position. We have key volunteers to help with all other needs that arise.

‌Review of Ministry/goals:

New Life completed a Vision Survey in September 2024. The future objectives are summarized here: Primarily, we have a good, strong, biblical foundation, however our congregation is wanting more and has growth in our eyesight. We have a great sense of community within the church, but have a need to change the demographic landscape, as well as needing to improve outreach efforts locally. The majority of the congregation feels our focus needs to heavily lie in local missions within the Duluth/Superior region.

We especially need a strong advocate for the growth of children’s, youth, and family programs to ultimately grow our younger adult membership alongside it.

‌Building Issues that may need to be addressed:

Our building is new as of 2023 and fully handicapped accessible.

‌Describe the congregation’s stewardship practices:

New Life’s priority is to support missions to the fullest extent we’re able. This has been a priority since the very beginning.

‌Congregation’s needs & strengths: 

Strengths‌

• Focused on the word

• very friendly and welcoming congregation

  ‌Needs

• Need a strong pastoral advocate for growth of children’s youth and family programs

  Call Process

• Completed a congregational vision survey

• Engaged an intentional interim as part of the call process

‌Part 3: Job Description

Overview

O Lord God, dear Father in heaven, I am, indeed, unworthy of the office and ministry in which I am to make known Thy glory and to nurture and to serve this congregation. But since Thou hast appointed me to be a pastor and teacher, and the people are in need of the teachings and the instructions, O be Thou my helper and let Thy holy angels attend me. (Luther’s Sacristy Prayer)

These first two sentences from Luther’s Sacristy Prayer help establish the parameters of the office of ministry, in its breadth and depth, and therefore they may also serve to guide us as we seek to identify, encourage, and support a new shepherd among us who will occupy the office of lead pastor at New Life Lutheran Church in the coming years.

The strong background in Scriptures and Confessions should result in strong, faithful preaching and teaching of the Word of God, from the pulpit and in effective education, but also in pastoral and spiritual counsel at the homes of members and our neighbors, in times of illness or grief, but also in times of victory and celebration.

Finally, in our desire to live out the great commission to “make disciples of all nations” and as those who continue to live out our lives in the grace of his forgiveness, we long for leadership and partnership with a pastor who brings energy and creative approaches (as well as the tried and true) to reach out to our neighbors in our surrounding towns and villages, in our nation, and in our world, with Christ’s mission to seek and to save the lost. (Luke 19:10)

Key Areas

Our Pastor must be the spiritual leader guiding members in the following areas.

1. Worship, leadership, and preaching

2. Pastoral care

3. Teaching and Education

4. Leadership and Administration

5. Community engagement

6. Youth and family ministries

7. Stewardship and missions

8. Personal and professional development

   Qualifications:

   • Will be an ordained minister in good standing with LCMC

   • Strong understanding of Lutheran theology, liturgy, and traditions

   • Excellent communication and leadership, and interpersonal skills

   • Ability to provide compassionate pastoral care and foster spiritual growth

   • Commitment to the mission and values of the Lutheran Church (LCMC)

To Apply:

If you are interested in this position, please email a cover letter and resume to [email protected].

^{(posted 01.17.2025)}

Our Church

North Immanuel Lutheran Church is a rural congregation, originally organized in April of 1871 by Norwegian farmers. It was the first church in the area and is situated in the serene rolling hills and lakes country of Western Minnesota. We have an average attendance of 40 to 50 individuals at our 9 am Sunday worship service, in addition to special Lenten and holiday services. Sunday school class is held immediately after Sunday service as well as confirmation class currently. Each class is led by devoted members of the church.

North Immanuel has an active group of members who contribute to many activities and events including Summer Outdoor Services; Annual Meatball Supper; Christmas Concert with local popular musicians; Weekly Bible Study; Sunday School; Confirmation and Youth Events; Quilting; Lenten Services with meals and our Annual Vacation Bible School. Many members of the congregation look forward to our fellowship hour which follows each Sunday worship service. Great conversation is shared whilst enjoying homemade treats and hot coffee.

As members of North Immanuel Lutheran Church and in recognition of the gift of grace we have received through Jesus Christ, our Mission is: 

• To develop a personal and Spiritual relationship with Jesus Christ, our Lord
• To provide an environment for the Continuing Education and further teachings of all ages
• To reach out to welcome all to grow with us in faith through worship and serving others in our community and throughout the world.

Pastor’s Role
North Immanuel Lutheran Church is seeking a part-time Pastor to help us to carry out our mission,
primarily by providing spiritual leadership, pastoral guidance, and leadership to all aspects of the
Church. Serving not only as Pastor, but also a biblical teacher and leader to all in North Immanuel
Lutheran Church.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead weekly Sunday Worship and provide pastoral leadership and support for all. This includes but is not limited to administering the Sacraments and overseeing biblical teaching.
• Organize and participate in baptisms, confirmations, weddings and funerals as needed.
• Regularly pray for the congregation and its ministry.
• Host weekly adult bible study and maintain limited office hours.
• Teach confirmation and be involved with Sunday School and the youth of the congregation.
• Build relationships with and provide pastoral care for North Immanuel Lutheran Church members and their families including visiting the shut-in’s, sick and hospitalized.
• Work closely with leadership and members of the congregation to develop and implement goals for ministry and growth. Including participation in monthly Church Council meetings and occasional committee meetings as necessary.

Desired Personal Skills and Characteristics
The ideal candidate will:

• Have appropriate spiritual gifts for this position such as pastorship, leadership and teaching abilities.
• Lead by example as a disciple of Jesus Christ who personifies a growing relationship with the Lord and demonstrates a love and passion for serving Him.
• Exhibit transparency, humility, integrity, empathy and conflict resolution skills.
• Have a friendly and engaging personality with strong oral and written communication and interpersonal skills both one-on-one as well as in a group setting.

Compensation
The Pastor will receive a salary based on ministry experience and education.

Benefits available and negotiable at time of call may include:

• Housing allowance
• Mileage reimbursement/allowance
• Continued Education

Further discussion of detailed compensation and benefits will be discussed with qualified candidates during the interview process and will be based upon experience and qualifications.

How to Apply
If you feel called to serve as our part-time Pastor, we would love to hear from you. Please submit a
cover letter and resume to Bryant at [email protected] or call (218)849-8353 to schedule an
in-person meeting with the call committee. We look forward to getting to know you and exploring
how God might be leading you to join us.

We are prayerfully preparing for the future of our congregation and ask God to guide us as we
continue his work. Thank you for considering this opportunity with North Immanuel Lutheran Church

Applicant Submission Details:
Contact:
Bryant Briard
[email protected]

Mailing Address:
12713 County Highway 30
Pelican Rapids, MN 56572

^{(posted 12.12.2024, updated: 01.13.2025 )}

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Greetings and God’s blessings to you from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Springfield, Minnesota. We are seeking a full time pastor to serve our congregation.  Please prayerfully consider learning more about our congregation and the call opportunity available to serve God here at St. Paul Lutheran Church.

St. Paul Lutheran Church, Springfield has been in service to God for 153 years.

We are located in the rural town of Springfield in Southwestern Minnesota with a population of approximately 2,000.  Safe, family-friendly, community-minded, traditional small-town lifestyle.

• Award winning public school (Springfield Elementary: 2022 National Blue Ribbon School), arts, wellness and athletics programs, recent multi-million addition to enhance the staff and student needs. School website:  mntm.org
• Thriving Pre-K-6^th grade Catholic school with open enrollment for all denominations. School
• Allina Health Clinic with 5 physician assistants available for same day appointments, virtual visits and online care. Specialists from other clinics are also available upon request.  website:  allinahealth.org
• Beautiful parks and walking paths, beautiful campground, multiple baseball and softball fields, community pool, golf course, grocery store and Thrifty White pharmacy
• Multiple elderly residence housing options and services throughout St. John’s Circle of Care campus.
• Agricultural based economy with many hard working small business owners
• A half hour drive from the amenities of larger towns like New Ulm, Redwood Falls, and Windom. Within one hour drive of Mankato, Marshall and Willmar
• City website: www.springfieldmn.org

St Paul’s attributes include:

• Faithful, God-fearing, and Jesus-loving congregation members
• LCMC affiliation
• Multi-generational families worshiping together
• Strong enrollment (approximately 60 students) in our Pre-kindergarten to 8th grade Sunday School Program
• Beautiful, large, ornate sanctuary
• Fellowship Hall where we host “Coffee Talk” after services or a coffee bar before services
• Passionate musicians and choir members
• Dedicated leadership on the church council
• Spacious 4-bedroom, 2 bath parsonage with newly remodeled living area in the basement
• Up to date Audio Visual System in both worship and Christian education

 St. Paul Lutheran Church Pastoral Job Description

• Category: Pastoral Ministry
• Position Title: Pastor
• Position Type: Full Time

Job Responsibilities:

• Preach and teach the Word of God in accordance with the Holy Scriptures and Lutheran Confessions;
• Perform all duties of the LCMC and the church constitution and its wider ministries
• Lead worship and encourage new forms of worship and fellowship;
• Provide pastoral care and leadership;
• Administer Holy Baptism and Holy Communion;
• Officiate at special services such as weddings, funerals, elder care facility services, etc.;
• Provide fellowship, visitations, and private communions to the sick and shut in;
• Develop and participate in fellowship opportunities, retreats and events for youth
• Teach confirmation classes;
• Skills that will communicate the love of God through a variety of media;
• Oversee the administration and management of all areas of the congregation’s ministry in consultation with Church Council and appropriate board, committees, and staff.
• The pastor is to be fully engaged in the life and ministry of the congregation.
• Equip the Laity for the work of ministry so that the congregation can be closer to all that God has called it to be. (Ephesians 4:12)

Desired Personal Characteristics:

• A compassionate member of the workers in faith with Christ.
• Excellent communication skills that relate a message to the lives of the congregation in worship and demonstrates compassion and love and service to the individual.
• Strong Christian values demonstrated in a life led through Christ.
• Willingness to involve the congregation in the ministry of the church.
• Strong skills that will communicate the love of God through a variety of media.
• Develop a positive public presence with participation in the Springfield Ministerial Group and other opportunities available in the community.
• Able to mediate and live well between historical Christianity and modern societal issues in a way that will help members relate, understand and still facilitate a welcoming community.
• Ability to educate persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel by leading Bible studies and developing other programs to promote ministry in the congregation and community.
• Encourage members to give of their time, talents and resources.
• Guide us in proclaiming God’s love through word and deed within our church and also within the community,
• A strong sense of Partnership, while the pastor is the key leader, he/she is not the only leader.  No pastor is equally gifted in all the areas mentioned above.  The pastor should be encouraged to ask for help.

St. Paul Lutheran Church
303 North Cass Avenue
Springfield, MN 56087

Phone: 507-723-5880
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.splcspringfield.org

Applicant Submission Details:
Mailing Address :
St. Paul Lutheran Church
Attn: Call Committee
303 N. Cass Ave
Springfield, MN 56087

^{(posted 9.27.2024)}

We are a new, lay-led LCMC church plant, established as a parish in 2021, when confirmation students prompted discussions which led to separation from the local ELCA.  Dependent upon pulpit supply, to date, our congregation now seeks, as its first settled pastor:

• An ordained minister, or, one who has met commonly held standards, and is recognized or licensed as a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, or,
• A leader who is engaged in earnest study toward ordination, or
• A seasoned youth pastor, ordained or studying toward it, who is ready to take the next step and lead a congregation.

Our Sunday School rejoices with 70+ children ages pre-school through high school, with 33 young adults currently in the Confirmation program.  Our teachers are committed to our children.  Our clergy leader will oversee the instructional team, lead the teachers, empower them, encourage them and support them in their ministry.

We have approximately 75 families listed as members, representing roughly 250 persons.

Our current worship style draws upon our Lutheran roots with a blend of traditional and contemporary music and liturgy, following the SOLA lectionary.   Saturday evening worship is usually attended by 20+ members, while Sunday mornings see 40-60+.  At present, we utilize a rental space for both worship and education, in downtown Slayton, right on the main street. Though we are grateful to the building owner who has been faithful and cooperative as our journey has begun, we are looking forward, to locate a space and/or construct a building, to have a permanent home.  We seek a clergy leader who can guide us through this transition.

The congregation has exceptional volunteer teams who work alongside our Church Council.  The teams select and provide music for worship services, construct worship bulletins, create banners and paraments, lead adult Bible studies, coordinate supply pastors, tend to altar needs, and provide janitorial service.  We recognize the need to eventually have staff members in paid positions to tend to some of these responsibilities. Our clergy leader will need to collaborate with us in empowering an effective administrative team.

We pray for the settled clergy leader who will join us to preach, teach and live out God’s word in ways that we can understand, with interpretations that touch our hearts, so that we may become more Christ-centered, Christ-filled, Christ-led.

We look to the Great Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ, to send a clergy leader to grow with us as we explore our future, spreading His love and His word to the community and beyond.

BASIC RESPONSIBILITIES OF CLERGY LEADER

1. Teach us the Word of God as revealed in the Old and New Testaments; interpret and explain lessons and parables such that we can learn from scripture.

2. Conduct two weekly worship services, early Saturday evening and again on Sunday morning, with Holy Communion celebrated twice monthly. Worship times may fluctuate to suit the weather conditions or particular celebrations.  Currently, we follow the SOLA lectionary.

3. Administer the Sacraments of Holy Baptism as needed. Share with us in the joy of Confirmations and weddings by officiating, and grieve with us as we send friends onward at their Home Going.
4. Provide instruction to this congregation so that together, all may be strengthened in the faith and love for Jesus Christ. Teach, Lead, Love and Empower our Lay Leaders such that they can be available to assist you to:
   1. serve members in need of pastoral care;
   2. lead the adult Bible study classes;
   3. provide instruction to our youth;
   4. broaden our outreach to the community;
   5. provide marriage counseling, pre or post, as warranted;
   6. monitor the use of our automated membership tracking system for baptisms, confirmations, marriages and funerals for the purposes of historical records.

5. Serve as advisory member of the Church Council, engaging with Council members as necessary, but having no voting power.

The agricultural community of Slayton (pop.1,998 as of 2021) offers:

• Murray County Central Schools, including Early Childhood through 12^th grade

(Go, Rebels!) along with several early childhood/preschool options

• Murray County Medical Center with hospital and medical clinic services plus local chiropractors, dentists and optometrists
• County seat for Murray County including the Murray County Fairgrounds, used year-round by various organizations    
• Active Chamber of Commerce supported by a variety of vibrant downtown businesses including a fitness center, banks, lumber yard, CPA’s, attorneys, pharmacy, bakery, boutiques, coffee shops and more
• A variety of family owned, family atmosphere restaurants
• Family-owned grocery store, and a “Dollar” store
• A community swimming pool, three city parks, several area recreational lakes providing ample opportunities for boating and fishing
• Annual community events including the County Fair, the Autumn Boutique, Draft Horse competition and many annual parades and celebrations held in Slayton and neighboring communities
• Six local churches of various faiths form the SW Minnesota Ministerial Coalition, with pastors meeting together regularly
• Public Library with computer lab and meeting rooms
• Senior Living, a Senior Center and a Hospice Center
• Very active 4-H Clubs, Friends of the Library, Slayton Historical Society, summer softball, a fun-loving (mostly adult) community band
• Kiwanis, Lions Club (in nearby Hadley), Slayton Women of Today, Masonic Lodge
• Community Center, Library, Fire Department, Ambulance Services
• Local city owned airport
• Local golf course, plus others nearby

We are located in the SW corner of Minnesota.  A 30-minute drive north, south or west takes us to the Marshall, Worthington or Pipestone communities who host various technical colleges and state university campuses as well as other medical facilities and shopping opportunities. Sioux Falls, SD with its larger airport and shopping options is an 80-minute drive, while Rochester’s Mayo Clinic, or the Minneapolis/St Paul area can be reached within 3 hours.

We are ready to discuss a financial package including health insurance, vacation days, book allowance, continuing education, housing options…

For more information, please submit cover letter, resume and/or questions to: [email protected]  or  call  612-670-3072.   Thank you!!

^{(updated 11.26.2024, updated 02.19.2025)}

Congregational information

Grace Lutheran Church of Erhard is a Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) church since 2006 with about 600 baptized members and average weekly attendance of about 120. Attendance is seasonally balanced by people who spend summers at area lakes and snowbirds who winter in southern climes. Our mission is to be a welcoming church family, committed to the Bible as God’s truth, worshiping together, and reaching out to love, pray for, teach, and serve in Christ’s name. We believe that Jesus Christ is Lord and confess that we are sinners saved by God’s grace.

Our congregation, originally known as Bagstevold Lutheran Church, dates to 1875. Our present handicapped-accessible building was completed in 2005. We are debt-free and are financed via voluntary benevolence. In addition to a pastor, who has served our congregation since 2010, our staff consists of a Minister of Music, Minister of Visitation, Minister of Youth, church secretary, treasurer, audiovisual technicians, custodian, facility support person, and librarian.

Sunday worship, a blend of traditional and contemporary style service, is at 10 A.M. followed by food and friendship in the fellowship hall. Holy Communion is offered the first Sunday of each month and is open to all (grade 5 and up) who confess Jesus Christ as their savior. Our Sunday school, Confirmation and First Communion classes, Vacation Bible School, and youth group (known as The Foundry) include young people from several area schools and communities. Other organizations include Grace Lutheran Women, Grace Quilters, Bible study groups, Prayer Group, Stephen Ministry, choir, nine-member church council, and the Bagstevold Cemetery Association. We support a Mission of the Month and a Thailand mission and host Red Cross blood drives.

Grace members care for each other and the people of the area. We view our church as the place where the community can connect with God and one another. We celebrate that everyone serves according to their unique strengths, skills, and talents. Grace members are active in area events including the Erhard 4th of July celebration, community dinners, and service projects. We work with area law enforcement to provide emergency assistance to families and individuals in need. We support and collaborate with other area churches to build a larger community of faith in action.

Erhard is a community of about 150 residents in Otter Tail County in west central Minnesota, about 35 miles from the North Dakota border. The town and our church are on U.S. Highway 59 between the communities of Pelican Rapids (population about 2,500) and Fergus Falls (population about 13,200), which offer preschool through grade 12 schools, medical services, expanded housing options, shopping, the arts, and other amenities. Fergus Falls also offers religious education and a two-year college and is home to the Lutheran Brethren headquarters and seminary. Otter Tail County has two state parks and more than 1,000 of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes, exceeding any county in the United States. Recreational opportunities, including fishing and other water activities, hunting, camping, hiking, bicycling, pickleball, golf, skiing, and myriad other sports and forms of entertainment, abound in this area.

Grace Lutheran Church of Erhard, Minnesota

Job description: Pastor

Core responsibilities (as defined by our Constitution)

• Conduct public worship and preach and teach the true Word of God in accordance with the Bible and the Lutheran Confessions.
• Administer the sacraments and officiate baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and funerals.
• Strive to extend the Kingdom of God and proclaim God’s love for the world to all.
• Engage fully in the life and ministry of the congregation.
• Provide pastoral care and leadership and oversee all areas of the congregation’s ministry in consultation with the church council and appropriate committees and staff.

• • Instruct first communion and confirmation students and be involved with and offer guidance and assistance to youth leaders and teachers. Offer adult Bible study.

• • Oversee visits to our congregation’s sick, distressed, shut-ins, and those residing in care facilities.

• • Maintain regular office hours and be available to counsel members.

• • Involve congregational members in the ministry of the church and encourage them to give of their time, talents, and resources.

• • Administer discipline in conjunction with the church council.

• Manage church office staff and assist with weekly bulletins and monthly newsletters.
• Attend monthly council meetings and the annual congregational meeting.
• Install new members of the congregation, elected members of the church council, and volunteer Sunday school staff.
• Seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel.
• Cultivate relationships with other local congregations, be visible in the community, and impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through a variety of media.

We are seeking a pastor who:

• Genuinely loves God and His people.
• Possesses the ability to preach the Word of God and teach how it applies to our lives today and into the future.
• Enjoys social interaction and takes interest in and prays for our congregation’s members and our communities.

To apply for the position of pastor at Grace Lutheran Church of Erhard, please send your resume to [email protected].
For further information contact call committee chair Jim Klitzke at 218-280-8321.

^{(posted 8.2.2024)}

Description: 

Category: Pastoral Ministry

Subcategory: Senior Pastor

Position: Full-Time / Lead Pastor

Position Type: Full Time

Location: Hope Lutheran Church l 508 Foss Ave N, Fosston, MN 56542 l 218.435.6765

Affiliation: LCMC

Mission: Our Purpose is to glorify God by worshiping, witnessing, teaching, loving, and serving our Lord Jesus Christ.

With the recent retirement of our previous pastor, Hope Lutheran Church is seeking our next pastor who will serve and lead our congregation in order that we might serve God and glorify Him through our mission.

Our Church:

Founded in 1914, Hope Lutheran Church has a long and vibrant history in the community of Fosston. Today we have 502 confirmed members with an average attendance of 70 for our Sunday morning worship service. Like many churches, we have seen a drop regarding in-person attendance compared to the years prior to the Covid pandemic, especially in regards to our young families and youth.

Our church operates with the help of several boards and committees. Our church offers a number of different education, fellowship, ministry, and service opportunities.

Our worship style would be considered fairly traditional, though we have had periods where a second service with a more contemporary style has been held.

We have been blessed with many generous and engaged members, as such we have remained financially sound throughout the past several years and continue to be debt free.

Our Facility:

We have a large building with classrooms, meeting rooms, office space, a fellowship hall, along with a beautiful sanctuary featuring recently-restored stained glass windows for our worship services. We also own a 2,240 sq ft, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom parsonage & garage with a spacious yard for a pastoral residence that sits next to our church building. We have recently completed several projects including replacement of church classroom and office windows, kitchen upgrades, A/V upgrades, along with parsonage improvements. Future project goals include: new exterior retaining wall, exterior water drainage, paved parking lot.

Church Staff:

In addition to our Pastor, our church has historically been staffed by an Administrative Assistant and a Custodian. We also have several part-time positions including: A/V Technician, Organist/Pianist, Choir Director, Bookkeeper, and Youth Leader.

Our church council is made up of several boards which include: Deacons, Trustees, Family & Youth/Education, Music & Worship. Our church is also served by several committees including: Women of Hope, Benevolence committee, Call Committee, Grounds as well as other ad-hoc committees as needed.

Ministries and Education:

• Services are broadcast live on Facebook, Youtube, local cable, and as well as radio broadcast.
• Visitation at area nursing homes
• Sunday School (elementary age, with opportunities for junior high and high school students)
• Vacation Bible School (average attendance of 40 – 60 elementary age children)
• School Release Time (Friday morning – elementary and confirmation classes)
• Adult Bible Studies
• Special services including: Lenten Soup & Sandwich Services, Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and Easter Services, Christmas Eve Services, Weddings, Baptisms, Funerals
• Choir and other special music
• Community Partnerships Including: ecumenical holiday services in partnership with the area Ministerium*, Food Shelf Support.
• Benevolence Committee which directs 10% of our church offering to area and world missions
• FCA Breakfast (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), H.E.L.P. (Health Equipment Lending Program), Operation Christmas Child
• Monthly Men’s Breakfast
• Women of Hope: Quilting, fellowship, Bible camp scholarships, community meals

*The Ministerium is a partnership of 6 area churches that work to support the community through service projects, community worship services, and more.

Our Community: https://www.fosston.com/
School Website: www.fosstongreyhounds.com

The City of Fosston is a thriving rural community in Northern Minnesota with a population of approximately 1500 people. We have remained a vibrant community in large part due to our strong school district and local access to quality healthcare. Our school district consists of a two-campus (PreK- 6 and 7-12) school with each building having approximately 300 students. Our health care offerings include: 2 eye clinics, 3 dental clinics, 2 pharmacies, 2 chiropractors, nursing home and assisted living communities, along with a full-service clinic and hospital.

Other amenities include: movie theatre, indoor pool with public gymnasium, public golf course along with 2 others within 20 minutes, outdoor skating rink, large grocery store, vibrant industrial & manufacturing park, a vibrant arts community including 2 community theatre productions each year, public library, area folk school.

Easy access to many outdoor activities: snowmobile trails, paved walking/biking trails, fishing, hunting, 3 state forests within 50 miles including Itasca State Park and Rydell National Wildlife Refuge, as well as 20 lakes within 20 minutes.

Fosston is also home to 8 churches, many of which have a strong partnership through the Fosston Ministerium.

Strengths of Hope Lutheran Church:

• Caring congregation that are quick to wrap each other in love and support in times of need
• “Women of Hope” – Womens’ service group that have been a backbone of our church and many of the ministry and fellowship opportunities offered by our church.
• High-quality digital broadcast with strong engagement and reach
• Active committee and board involvement
• Well-attended VBS and school release time programs
• Network of core volunteers and engaged members
• Strong community presence and involvement in community ministries

Areas for Improvement at Hope Lutheran Church:

• Creating a welcoming environment that reminds people of the fulfillment that comes from worshiping together instead of watching services at home
• Building back our youth group and youth involvement overall
• Restoring high school Sunday School opportunities
• Creating an environment that fosters sustained engagement. We have many willing volunteers for one-time events but have a harder time securing commitment for longer–term responsibilities like Sunday School and Release Time Classes.
• Encouraging consistency when Boards and Committees transition to new members

Pastoral Skills that would best serve Hope Lutheran Church

• Strong Biblical and theological knowledge
• Living a Christ–centered life with a passion for spreading God’s word
• Ability to deliver relatable, Biblically–based sermons
• Desire and ability to engage families & youth
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work with and delegate to committees and boards
• Willingness to serve shut-ins and nursing home residents with at-home ministry
• Desire to attend community and school events to build community presence

Minimum Qualifications

• Master of Divinity degree from an accredited Lutheran Seminary and complete the requirements as outlined in the Hope Lutheran Church constitution and by-laws.
• Certification with LCMC

To Apply

After prayerful consideration, if you feel called to serve and lead Hope Lutheran Church as our Pastor, please submit your resume to the call committee at [email protected]

or mail to:

Hope Lutheran Church
c/0 Call Committee/Evan Fonder 
PO Box 42
Fosston, MN 56542

^{(posted: 01.10.2023)}

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Lamberton Minnesota is seeking an organist who will be able to play for regular Sunday worship and other special services.  Please contact Char Graff at 507.829.0105.

Applicant Submission Details
Mailing Address:

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church — LCMC
805 Birch St. P.O. Box 67
Lamberton, Minnesota
56152-0067

^{(posted August 1, 2022; updated: Jan 9, 2023)}

Church Name: Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church

Church Address:
101 Atlantic Avenue
P.O. Box 98
Badger, MN 56714

Church Phone: 218-528-3231

Contact Person: Mary Karl

Website: www.ourredeemersofbadger.org

Description:
Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Badger, Minnesota, is searching for a shepherd to lead our small, northwestern Minnesota flock on a part-time basis. This half-time pastoral vacancy requires 16 to 20 hours per week which includes preparing for and leading our weekly worship service in accordance with Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, home and hospital visits, working with and through the members of our congregation to sustain and grow a fulfilling and Gospel centered ministry in our church home and in our small, rural community; leading us to a better understanding of the message of the Scriptures through Bible study and other teaching and counselling opportunities.

Our Redeemer’s is blessed with a faithful base of parishioners with a heart for volunteering, fellowship, mission and giving. We have a beautiful church home that is fully handicap accessible and free from debt. A housing allowance will be provided if desired.

^{(updated: 01.11.23)}