Candidate Profile

TELL ME MORE.

We design the profile to define who would be a good fit for this position based on seven broad criteria.

The profile assumes the qualifications for a pastor found in 1 Timothy and Titus. First Presbyterian Church of Siloam Springs is an egalitarian church, so both men and women are encouraged to apply. Because they are a multi-generational church of 200, the pastor is a generalist and will be required to perform a variety of tasks. Candidates should know that they are a traditional church and be comfortable with worshipping in that style.

We know, as does the search committee, that there might not be a pastor out there who could check all of the following boxes. If this call intrigues you and you feel that you are lacking in a few areas, then we strongly encourage you to have a conversation with David Zook. He is leading the search.

If there is a skill you lack, let us know. We offer courses for many of the skills listed. You will receive a certificate upon completing the course testifying that you have aquired the knowledge and developed the skill.

CHARACTER

• The candidate will possess the ability to see everyone in Siloam Springs in the image of God. They love people for who they are, not what they do, believe, or look like. They strive to honor everyone.  
• The candidate will love and care for his/her family.  
• The candidate will be marked with humility. Even though he/she is the Lead Pastor, he/she recognizes that he/she is the first among equals in relation to the Elders.  
• The candidate will exhibit compassion and mercy to the congregation and community.  
• The candidate will carry himself/herself with confidence in capabilities.

KNOWLEDGE

• The candidate will possess sound theological training in line with ordination requirements.  
• The candidate accepts that the life of the mind is integral to the life of faith.  
• The candidate is convicted of the centrality of Christ as revealed in Scripture. 

SKILL

• The candidate possesses the skill to effectively reach out to neighbors, the community, other churches, and people who are not like those attending Siloam Springs.  
• The candidate demonstrates the skill to preach, teach, and apply Scripture.  
• The candidate knows how to mobilize people based on their gifting, passion, and personality.  
• The candidate comfortably connects across generations.  
• The candidate brings people from different backgrounds together.  
• The candidate creates an environment where people can be real with each other.  
• The candidate creates an environment where people grow closer and more sensitive to God.  
• The candidate develops spiritual and missional leaders.  
• The candidate demonstrates competence to manage people.
• The candidate demonstrates ability to deal with conflict.
• The candidate understands and administers the budget well.

PASSION

• The candidate loves God and others.
• The candidate has a heart for the community and a care for loved ones.  
• The candidate has a passion for developing people.

PERSONALITY

The candidate is a relationship builder and

• Is warm, empathetic, responsive, and responsible.
• Can read the room and respond to the emotions, needs, and motivations of others.
• Sees potential in everyone, and wants to help others fulfill their God-given potential.
• Acts as catalyst for individual and group spiritual growth.
• Is loyal, and responsive to praise and criticism.
• Is sociable, can facilitate meetings, and provides inspiring leadership.

STORY

The candidate’s life will be marked by his/her love of God and others. He/she will have stories of trials endured as he/she built relationships, brought people together, and helped people grow closer and more sensitive to God. He/she will also have stories of when temptations got the best of them as he/she led God’s flock. He/she, ideally, will be a seasoned pastor who can be “heady” as needed and wise enough to “back off” when more heart or hands are necessary.