Never trust those early morning thoughts, but I had one this morning. I wonder how many of the churches that rejected my application are still searching for a pastor.
So, I characterized them, as best I could, according to how long they have been without a pastor.
1 year or less: 6
1-2 years: 4
2+ years: 1
So, 5 churches think it’s better to not have a pastor than to have me (and the other 50 applicants) as their pastor. Interesting.
Having served on several PNCs and chair of one, I have a few observations:
1. These churches have interim pastors, who may be very good. So being “without a pastor” may not be quite as “without” as it seems. In fact, they may really like their interim and want to keep him or her. On the other hand, they may be having some issues among the people on their search committee, limiting their effectiveness.
2. One old expression is it’s better to have a good match than a good catch. Lots of good candidates are not right for a particular congregation.
3. I got to this posting by a Presbyterian link, so I am supposing you are Presbyterian. If so, you understand PIF. (If not, that’s your application.) I have seen many PIFs that do not do a very good job of presenting the applicant favorably. When printed materials are your main introduction, you need to make sure they are absolutely perfect and that you have something unique to offer. Get some input on yours. And don’t limit yourself too much on where you are willing to move.
4. Trust the process! Trust the Lord’s leading. And keep praying for that perfect match.
Thanks Sarah.
Not all of those churches have interim pastors. But I understand completely about ‘fit’ & providence. It was just a weird thought I had one morning.
Sometimes churches go extended periods w/out a pastor because they have unrealistic expectations and/or worship cultural idols like success, or prizing “selling oneself” over humility.
I keep updating/improving my materials, and have added some new things I send along to help them get to know me.