Lead Pastor

Job Description

Lead Pastor – Full-Time

Seward Congregational Church | Seward, Illinois

Lead a Historic Church with an Opportunity for Growth

Seward Congregational Church is seeking a full-time Lead Pastor to shepherd our congregation, faithfully teach God’s Word, and lead the next chapter in our 180+ year history.

We are a member of the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference (CCCC) and are looking for a pastor who is passionate about biblical preaching, discipleship, relationship-building, and community outreach. This is an exciting opportunity to serve a historic church with a strong foundation, an active online ministry, and significant opportunities for growth.

About the Church

• Established more than 180 years ago
• Average in-person attendance of approximately 30
• Weekly online worship services are viewed approximately 150 times
• Debt-free campus with sanctuary, fellowship hall, classrooms, and livestream capabilities
• Strong community roots and a welcoming congregation

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver weekly biblical sermons
• Provide spiritual leadership and pastoral care
• Support Christian education and discipleship
• Participate in church leadership and ministry meetings
• Build relationships within the congregation and community
• Support outreach initiatives and special events
• Help develop and implement the church’s long-term vision and growth strategies

Qualifications

• Formal theological education or equivalent ministry experience preferred
• Agreement with the beliefs and values of the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference
• Strong biblical teaching and pastoral leadership skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• A heart for serving both established members and welcoming new families

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary: Starting at $30,000 annually (negotiable based on education and experience)

• Additional benefits include:
• Recently renovated parsonage (required residence)
• Housing value approximately $18,000 annually
• $200 monthly utility stipend
• $200 monthly insurance stipend, if needed
• Retirement plan with 3% church match
• Paid vacation and pulpit coverage
• Conference and professional development budget
• IRS mileage reimbursement

Estimated Total Compensation Package: Approximately $51,900 annually
, including housing.

Location

Seward is a peaceful rural community in northern Illinois, located near Pecatonica and within commuting distance of Rockford, offering small-town living with convenient access to larger communities.

We are an 180-year-plus community-oriented church that has been sharing God's Work through involvement and teaching God's plan through several generations of believers. Our church population has been declining steadily over the past decade, and our motivation is to re-establish our desire to grow our numbers and deepen our discipleship in our community.