The Pastoral Search Committee has been extremely busy for over a year. During the first year, we met regularly and worked on the materials that needed to be completed prior to our search for a new Pastor. Our Interim Pastor joined our church family in February 2008 and immediately began to assist us in our survey and strategic planning. By assimilating all the information gathered from members, we were able to complete our Church Profile and our invitation letter to prospective pastors. All of the completed documents were sent to the UCC office in Lansing where they were posted on their web-site. Prospective pastors check this site to review our invitation and decide if they would like to interview with us.
We are now receiving inquiries from interested clergy and have begun our internal review and interview process. The committee meets bi-weekly to examine candidate profiles, and review video or audio sermons from selected candidates. At the March 25, 2009, meeting, the committee finalized the interview questions to be used with selected candidates. These interviews began in April. Visits to neutral pulpits to hear selected candidates will follow.
The committee appreciates the support of the congregation and wants to assure everyone that we are engaged in prayerful and thoughtful deliberation. Our goal is to find the best permanent Pastor to help us continue to shape our vision, assist us in meeting the goals of our Strategic Plan, and lead us forward to accomplish the Lord’s work.