The Senior Pastor call process involves multiple steps and utilizes two key resources in the recruitment process: A Ministry Site Profile (MSP) and View Book. The MSP is a standardized written document used by all churches in the ELCA when they have a pastoral opening. The View Book complements the MSP and shares Southwood's story in a video format. Both of these tools are made available to prospective pastoral candidates.
You can view the MSP Summary and View Book at:
- MSP Summary:
- Click Current Openings on ELCA website
- Enter “Southwood Lutheran Church” in the “Name” field
- Click “Search”
- View Book
The Church Council has led the development and submission of these tools and recently received approval from the Nebraska Synod Bishop to activate the tools. Once the tools are activated, rostered ministers may begin showing interest in our Senior Pastor opening.
Southwood’s Call Committee will review submissions and may choose to offer an interview to potential candidates. Throughout the interview process, the Call Committee will be asked to keep information confidential to protect the privacy of the pastoral candidates. When a candidate is recommended for the Senior Pastor opening, they will be invited to visit Southwood to meet the congregation.
We anticipate the candidate review process to take several months. The Call Committee and Church Council is committed to providing updates to the congregation. Throughout this time period, we are blessed to have Pastor Eric, Pastor Michael and Pastor Jessica leading our congregation.
As a congregation member, we ask you to support this process by:
- Worshipping regularly in-person or online.
- Growing your faith through opportunities such as Small Groups, Amplify Media or Daily Devotionals.
- Identifying a serving opportunity for you and your family.
- Committing to regular financial giving.
- Praying for wisdom for the Call Committee, patience for the congregation, and preparation for the next pastor at Southwood.
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