Pulpit Minister Search as of 1/18/2024

 Description of who we are…

Mt. Zion Church of Christ originated as Swan Creek Christian Church in its present location in 1852.  We are located in the Richardsville community (and more specifically Greencastle), which finds itself approximately 7.6 miles outside the growing Bowling Green, KY city limits.  Our building and cemetery sits on a dead-end road atop a high bluff in a picturesque setting overlooking the Barren River. 

Mt. Zion is an evolving congregation and beginning in 2015 made an increased effort to reach the un-churched in the community.  The process included a bus ministry that continues today and brings approximately 25 to 30 different children ages 18 and below into our services.  We have incorporated Children’s Church during worship and have prayer warriors praying over the youth.

Members and attendees of Mt. Zion number approximately 100.  Presently we average 70 (2023 average) people for in-person worship (93 pre-Covid). At the onset of the pandemic, Mt. Zion discontinued having Sunday evening services and continues to do so.  In the summer of 2022, the church started meeting in small groups on Sunday evenings once per month.  We presently have three groups with approximately 30 individuals involved.  

The vision for Mt. Zion going forward is to focus on stronger discipleship development and continuing to reach out and love those in the community.   Growing spiritually is the goal through emphasis on prayer, worship, and digging into the Word.  We’re hoping to better reach and care for our adult generations.  

Our former pulpit minister for over 35 years retired at the end of 2023.  Currently the pulpit is being filled by a weekly rotation of Mt. Zion members, Ryan Barrick, Brian Eadens, and Austin Erickson.   

As with any congregation, Mt. Zion has its strengths and its weaknesses.  Some things we do really well and some areas need improvement.  We’re learning, striving to grow, and make changes where changes need to be made.  The membership is one rooted in love.  We’re ready for the next chapter at Mt. Zion and we’re praying for the person God is directing our way.  We look forward to them being a part of the vision and legacy of Mt. Zion.   

What we’re looking for…

  • Someone pursuing God.  A man of prayer.  
  • Dynamic & passionate speaker.  Speaks with clarity, from the heart, and with humility.  Displays an approachable personality and isn’t stiff-toned in the pulpit.  
  • Immersed in the Word.  A lover of It.
  • Builder of member relations through events, meals, conversation, and visitation.
  • Relevant with all generations of the membership.
  • Net-worker in community and with local churches.
  • Holds political views privately and doesn’t share them in a church setting.  The same expectation is held for any personal social media accounts, including his spouse & children 18 & under.
  • Presents challenging messages to both the churched and un-churched.  Messages should have depth, and be Spirit driven.
  • Messages should be void of self-righteousness in view of commonly held Church of Christ beliefs.  We don’t need pats on the back or to be made to feel superior with an attitude that we’ve gotten everything correct.
  • An upholder of the vision communicated for the congregation by the eldership.
  • Someone who isn’t expected to be the answer to everything.
  • Someone desiring to grow and continue development through various events and seminars.
  • Someone who will do either one brief in-home visit per week or will briefly host new residents, the un-churched, shut-ins or even our own members for at least the first year.  Members are encouraged to help him by going with him and/or submitting contact info.  

Responsibilities…

  • The message at worship each Sunday.  Occasional themed lesson series are expected.  It would be great if messages could be collaborated on and planned in advance to go along with a membership reading plan.
  • Teacher of adult Bible classes as assigned.
  • Participation in staff/elders meetings.
  • Availability for meetings with members.
  • Have an online presence through creating videos/media content as needed.
Salary 
  • Salary Level:  50k – 60k per year depending on experience.   Salary increases as spiritual and numerical growth occur.  

The Process for Applying…

  • Pray about it.  Prepare your heart and mind and let God lead.
  • Submit resume via email to Mtzion1852@aol.com.
  • Submit two examples of messages previously presented.  Links may be emailed to Mtzion1852@aol.com.  
  • Once reviewed and prayed over, the eldership and staff will conduct an interview if it’s believed you may be a possible fit.
  • Based upon the interview, the elders will invite you to be a guest speaker if they continue to feel you may be a good fit.
  • Following the preaching engagement(s) further discussion will take place among the eldership and staff and you will be updated regarding their decision.