04-02-2026 Pastor Search Committee



Congratulations in revising your Constitution and Bylaws and your continued effort of prayer and unity for the pastor search process.   Below are some guidelines to our Step # 3, "Form a Pastor Search Committee" based on our handout.   Please be prepared with your insights and questions as we talk about this step.  

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Form a Pastor Search Committee

The church leadership will then form a Pastor Search Committee (PSC), which will be responsible for overseeing the search process. The selection of committee members should be done prayerfully and should include individuals who:

  • Have a strong spiritual walk

  • Have discernment and wisdom

  • Represent various demographics of the congregation (if possible)

This committee should be given clear direction to:

  • Assess the Church’s Identity: The PSC should start by assessing the unique mission, vision, values, and needs of the church. This may involve meetings with church leaders, members, and possibly outside consultants to develop a thorough understanding of the church’s health, needs, and goals.

  • Create a Church Profile: Based on the assessment, the committee should develop a "church profile," which clearly outlines:

    • The theological beliefs and doctrinal stance of the church

    • Key ministry needs and opportunities

    • Expected characteristics, qualifications, and personality traits the pastor should possess (e.g., preaching style, leadership skills, pastoral care approach, experience with specific demographics, etc.)

    • The challenges the church is currently facing and the vision for the future

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What You Need to Know: Pastor Search FAQs & More

How are members of the Pastor Search Committee selected?

Committee members are prayerfully chosen by the church based on spiritual maturity, wisdom, and their ability to represent the congregation well.  According to our C&BL, they will have to be voted in to serve.

2. How long will the pastor search process take?
The timeline can vary depending on the needs of the church and the candidates available. The committee is committed to seeking God’s timing rather than rushing the process.

3. Can church members suggest potential pastoral candidates?
Yes, members are welcome to recommend candidates. The Pastor Search Committee will prayerfully review all suggestions and go through objective process just as others applicants do. 

4. How will the congregation be kept informed during the process?
Regular updates will be provided through church announcements, meetings, or written communications while maintaining appropriate confidentiality.

5. Why is confidentiality important in the search process?
Confidentiality protects both the candidates and their current ministries, allowing the process to proceed with integrity and care.

6. How is God’s guidance being sought throughout this process?
The committee is committed to prayer, Scripture, and spiritual discernment in every step, trusting the Lord to lead clearly.

7.  When should a Pastor Search Committee member be dismissed or step down? Dismissing or asking someone to step down is not customary.  However, when it is essentially necessary, the committee should handle this with prayer, humility and grace in alignment with church leadership with the goal of maintaining unity and integrity in the process. 

  • Conflict of Interest.  If a member has a personal relationship with a pastoral candidate (family, close friendship, or financial connection) that could bias their judgment, it is best for them to step aside to maintain fairness and credibility.  
  • Breach of Confidentiality. Confidentiality is critical in the search process. If a member shares sensitive information inappropriately, it can harm candidates and the integrity of the committee, and may be grounds for dismissal
  • Lack of Active Participation. If a member is consistently unable to attend meetings, contribute to discussions, or fulfill responsibilities, they may need to step down so the work can continue effectively.
  • Spiritual or Moral Concerns.  If a member is experiencing personal or spiritual struggles that affect their ability to discern wisely or represent the church well, stepping down may be necessary for a season. 
  • Disruptive or Divisive Behavior. If a member consistently causes conflict, undermines unity, or refuses to work collaboratively, it may hinder the committee’s effectiveness and require removal.

  • Change in Personal Circumstances.  Life events such as health issues, family responsibilities, relocation, or work demands may make it difficult for a member to continue serving fully.

  • Inability to Support the Committee’s Direction.  If a member strongly disagrees with the committee’s agreed process or direction and cannot move forward in unity, it may be best for them to step aside.


What You Need to Know

  • This is a spiritual process, not just a hiring process.
    Selecting a pastor is about seeking God’s will for our church, not simply filling a position.
  • Your prayers are essential.
    The entire congregation is encouraged to pray regularly for the committee, the future pastor, and the direction of the church.
  • Unity is vital.
    This season calls for patience, grace, and unity as we trust God to lead us together.  Do not misconstrue unity with uniformity.  The call for unity is not asking for a unanimous consensus, but even with dissent, unity means the willingness to go along with the majority. 
  • The process may take time—and that’s okay.
    A careful and prayerful search is more important than a quick decision.
  • Every voice matters, but order is important.
    While input is valued, the Pastor Search Committee has been entrusted to lead and steward this process.
  • God already knows who our next pastor will be.
    Our role is to faithfully seek Him as He reveals His choice in His perfect timing.

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