Assistant Pastor

Job Description:

Refuge Church Associate Pastor

Position Title:

Associate Pastor

Location:

Refuge Church

Reports To:

Lead Pastor and Governing Board

Position Type:
Full-time

Refuge Church is seeking a passionate, relational, and mature Associate Pastor who will lead by example and provide a shepherding presence to our congregation. This individual will serve as a vital member of our leadership team, working closely with the Lead Pastor to meet the spiritual needs of the church and help build a culture of discipleship and community. The ideal candidate will have a heart for shepherding, serving, discipling, and teaching others, with a deep commitment to spiritual growth and maturity.

Refuge is specifically looking to hire a man for this role because of the Biblical qualifications written in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 regarding elders and overseers within the Church. The candidate should also fully agree with and adhere to the Christian and Missionary Alliance Statement of Faith and Distinctives. They must also be fully licensed as an official worker of the Christian and Missionary Alliance or have begun the process with the Western Great Lakes District prior to hiring.

• Relational:
  Approachable, compassionate, and a people-person who connects well with others.
• Shepherd/Teacher: A shepherding heart with the ability to teach God’s Word in a clear and engaging manner.
• Leader/Exhorter:
  Motivates others, encourages spiritual growth, and equips the body of Christ.
• Mature Follower of Christ: A deep, consistent personal walk with God that reflects humility and trust.
• Humble/Teachable:
  Willing to learn, grow, and take constructive feedback for the benefit of the church.
• Self-Driven:
  Takes initiative, displays a strong work ethic, and has a passion for advancing the vision of the church.
• Flexible:
  Able to adapt to changing needs and circumstances with a servant's heart.
• Community Builder:
  Creates a strong sense of belonging and fosters unity within the congregation.
• Cultural/Emotional Intelligence (IQ):
  Sensitive to different ethnicities, cultures and emotions, with the ability to relate to diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
• Preferably Married:
  While not required, a preference is given to candidates who are married and exhibit a healthy family dynamic.
• Disciple-Maker:
  Passionate about developing others in their faith and equipping them for ministry.

• Biblical Training:
  Theological education or equivalent experience required.
• Microsoft Office Proficiency:
  Familiarity with basic office software for communication, administration, and planning.
• Ability to Teach/Communicate God’s Word:
  Preaching and teaching skills with a focus on biblical clarity and application.
• Soul Care Training (a plus):
  Formal or informal training in pastoral care, counseling, or soul care is preferred.

Hiring Timeline:
Interviews Begin:
December 2025 Hire Date:
January-June 2026 Probationary Period: 90 days

Compensation Package:
Salary: $45,000 annually Vacation: 4 weeks per year Retirement: 403B retirement match (details available during interview) Moving Benefits:
Up to $1,000 to assist with relocation costs

Interested candidates should submit a resume, a video recording of a sermon they have given, a cover letter outlining their personal testimony as well as philosophy of ministry, and at least three personal/character references, AND one reference from another pastor (including contact information and relationship context for each reference) to the Refuge Church office at  All applicants will be reviewed in line with the qualifications outlined in the Character Profile, and selected candidates will be contacted for an interview.

This position requires licensing with The Christian & Missionary Alliance. To learn more about The Alliance and requirements for licensing, please visit our website