Job Description for a Half Time Pastor

Half-time pastors fulfill whatever role is expected by their church.

Half-time pastors fulfill whatever role the church requires of them. Smaller churches often employ half-time, bivocational pastors due to financial issues. Duties can include many of the same responsibilities a full-time pastor fulfills, but on a smaller scale. However, some half-time pastors work in a specialized area of ministry, such as community care, children, youth or worship. Because their time is limited, they should have specific job descriptions so they can complete their duties as efficiently as possible.

Education

Although some congregations require their half-time pastors to hold a master's degree from a seminary, other churches ask that the candidate merely be enrolled in seminary. A few churches do not request any degree but look for church members from within their own congregation who can possibly fill the position of a half-time pastor. This is especially true in smaller churches.

Qualifications

All congregations require that the half-time pastor agree with the doctrinal statement of the church. Other typical qualifications include being a team player, being responsive to leadership, having an ability to encourage others, having leadership qualities and having an ability to deal with people from a wide range of backgrounds. For specialized positions, the applicant should be qualified in the area of expertise.

Training

The candidate should have prior experience, either seminary- or church-related, paid or volunteer. For specialized positions, the candidate should have a passion for the field he will be working in, be it children, youth, family or worship. Specific training or experience within the field also enhances employment opportunities.

Significance

The half-time pastor may lead and guide the whole congregation and any other leadership. Half-time specialized pastors focus on their particular area of ministry. They will support the head pastor in his role, and perform some of the following duties: preaching, leading Bible studies, conducting home or hospital visits, planning events such as outreaches or retreats, managing finances, participating in staff meetings, ministering pastoral care, leading worship, evangelism, mentoring teachers and leaders, and partnering with other staff.

Salary

Compensation packages vary significantly from state to state and in different denominations. However, a typical salary for a 20-hour-per-week pastor position is $2,000 per month. Some positions include housing and other benefits in addition to a paid wage.

References

• Korean-American Ministry Resources: Ministry Openings Sponsored Listings
• First Mennonite Church of Champaign-Urbana: Associate Pastor Job Description