Role of the Pastor

The congregation of FBC-Laurinburg recognizes the importance of the position of Pastor and seeks God's guidance in calling someone to be the Pastor and then working with that person called to this responsible position. The church's goal is to establish a relationship based on respect, understanding, and love as revealed through Jesus Christ. The Pastor reports directly to the congregation.

The role of Pastor is outlined by the Church Structure. There are five principal duties established therein.

1. Lead the church in its total life and work.

We call the Pastor to be the primary earthly shepherd of this congregation of God's people. As both member and leader of this congregation, this leadership role touches upon all aspects of the Pastor's work, either directly or indirectly. We seek a dedicated and energetic Pastor to lead both the internal church-life and in ecumenical outreach and representation.

2. Give general leadership to the congregation, church officers, Deacons, Council, committees, and church staff in their tasks of worship, proclamation, education, mission, administration, and pastoral ministry.

We recognize the unique and singular leadership duties of a Pastor. The Pastor will serve as the central liaison for the leadership structure of the church. Furthermore, the Pastor will work daily and directly with the church staff and is expected to provide the necessary direction. The ideal candidate will demonstrate principled leadership, tactfulness, inspirational guidance, and vision.

3. Give personal attention to preaching the gospel, leadership of worship, administrative oversight of the work of the church staff, pastoral visitation, and counseling.

The Pastor bears the important role of spiritual leader, responsible for sharing and teaching the Gospel of Christ and for the spiritual and emotional care of the congregation and staff. These vital charges require dedicated and continual personal attentiveness and ministrations. Visitation with hospitalized and homebound members and their caretakers is a critical part of the pastoral work we seek. Furthermore, the growth of our church requires direct and dedicated attention and leadership on the part of the Pastor.

4. Administer the ordinances of the church.

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we joyfully fulfill these obediences in remembrance of the earthly life of our Savior. The Pastor, as our spiritual leader, presides over the services recognizing the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord's Supper.

5. Serve as ex-officio member of all committees and Council of the church without vote.

The Pastor serves as a non-voting member of the established committees of the church and the Leadership Council. The Pastor is expected to provide his or her expertise and guidance to the leadership of the church. At the pastor's discretion, other staff members may be assigned to represent the pastor at committee meetings.

Finally, we recognize that the Pastor is one person carrying a heavy load in leading, teaching, growing, and caring for a congregation. The work of the church falls upon us all, and we — as a congregation — pledge to support our called Pastor in carrying out these weighty responsibilities.