Senior Pastor – Lutheran

Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive, includes housing and full benefits

About Us:
St. John’s Lutheran Church is a welcoming and faithful congregation rooted in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) tradition. We’re located in the scenic and agricultural town of American Falls, Idaho, with many outdoor recreation and family opportunities.  Our church has a rich heritage of community engagement and spiritual growth. With a newly renewed spirit of hope, we are seeking a dynamic and compassionate Senior Pastor to guide us into a new chapter of ministry.

Who We’re Looking For:
We are searching for a Christ-centered leader who is passionate about preaching, pastoral care, and engaging with youth and families. The ideal candidate will be someone who feels called to be present in the life of the congregation and in the broader community. We seek a pastor who can lead with authenticity, build relationships across generations, and help us grow both spiritually and in number.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Sunday worship services and provide engaging, scripturally grounded preaching
  Provide pastoral care and visitation to members, including during times of illness, grief, and life transitions
  Develop and grow youth and family ministries, including Christian education
  Participate in and lead community outreach efforts, building bridges within the town and beyond
  Encourage spiritual growth and discipleship through teaching, small groups, and mission opportunities
  Work collaboratively with church leadership and volunteers to support congregational vitality

Our Congregation Offers:

• A warm, generous, and supportive church community
• A large parsonage and full benefits package
• A vibrant rural community with excellent schools and abundant outdoor recreation
• A wide range of active ministries, including preschool, youth groups, community meals, and more
• Opportunities for creativity and growth in ministry, with support for new ideas and directions

Qualifications:

• Ordained ELCA Minister of Word and Sacrament or within a Full Communion Partner
• Strong skills in preaching, pastoral care, and youth engagement
• Ability to build a sense of community and foster spiritual growth
• Willingness to engage with a diverse rural community
• Open to pastors with a wide range of experience (2–20 years)

Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary with parsonage
• Full ELCA benefits (medical, pension, vacation, etc.)
• $7,500 annual professional expenses
• Sabbatical and parental leave policies
• Supportive call committee and transition team

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to:
📧 https://www.elca.org/call-process/current-openings
📍 St. John’s Lutheran Church
PO Box 55, 656 Tyhee Ave., American Falls, ID 83211

Learn more about us at www.stjohnsaf.com/about

Tagged as: episcopal, lutheran, moravian, presbyterian, reformed church in america, united church of christ, united methodist