Pastoral Resident of Faith Formation

Pilgrim Congregational Church (United Church of Christ) is an active, vibrant, theologically generous, and racially diverse community of faithful people. We are a community of people who hear God asking us, “How will you put your faith into action?” Therefore, we are concerned with improving equity, promoting inclusion, and achieving social justice. We desire to create a safe space of welcome and belonging for everyone, a foundation from which we can love God and serve our neighbors in the Oak Park area and beyond.

Job Summary

This is a unique, two-year experience for a first-time pastor seeking a part-time opportunity. As a part-time opportunity, rather than focusing on all areas of pastoral work, the main emphasis of this role is on faith formation and worship leadership. Through faith formation, the church seeks to help people, young and old, to grow in their relationship with God, live as disciples of Jesus in the world through engagement in service and mission, develop an understanding of the Bible and our faith tradition, and participate in the life and ministries of our faith community. This position supports the Senior Pastor and lay leadership by organizing and implementing strategies and activities that align with their objectives.

Duties & Essential Job Functions 

● Provide program development and support to the Ministry of Adult Education, including leading initiatives for growth & teaching classes

● Develop and maintain a regular youth opportunity (education, service, community, etc.) for high school students

● Participate in planning and leading worship

● Preach occasionally, roughly ten times per year

● Participate in bi-weekly mentoring sessions with the Senior Pastor

The position is contracted for two years and 12 hours per week. We are looking for a candidate who has discerned a call to parish ministry and who has graduated or will graduate with an M.Div. degree by the end of the residency. Excellent candidates will have a passion for God’s justice, a heart for Jesus’ way of compassion, and an openness to the Holy Spirit.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to jobsearch@pilgrimoakpark.org