Calls For Expressions of Interest

by Oct 9, 2022

This job description is published on behalf of St. John’s German Lutheran Parish in Springvale (Victoria). The parish provides Germans living in Melbourne (either temporarily or permanently) an opportunity to access German church traditions in a bi-lingual setting. Female applicants will receive equal consideration and are encouraged to apply.

Position: Pastor

Challenge: We are friendly and warm-hearted. Are you dynamic and passionate to spread the Good News? Then come and join us in Melbourne, Australia! We are looking for a Pastor to lead us into a revitalised phase of ministry for the next five years.

In addition to traditional forms of worship, we see our future increasingly in modern and creative forms. For this we need an open-minded personality with appropriate experience, talents and ideas.

Current: We are a small (approximately 300) predominantly German-speaking congregation founded in 1960 to provide a spiritual and cultural home away from home for the large wave of German migration at that time.  We have a German heritage but are now well established in our multi-cultural community.  Our congregation has a strong connection to their Lutheran heritage.

We are also very involved with the Martin Luther Homes, an aged care facility: www.martinlutherhomes.com.au. Our new meeting facilities opened in March 2022 and we are re-activating our groups post-COVID. St. John’s is fully committed to sustainability and to being good custodians of God’s creation

Workload: Full-Time

Term: 5 years initially, thereafter negotiable; a 6-month probationary period will apply.

Commencement date: Flexible – as soon as practicable.

Qualifications: Accredited qualification in theology and be eligible for ordination within the Lutheran church (mandatory).

Specific skills: Fluent in spoken and written German language with an ability to preach in German (highly desirable).

Desirable attributes: Musical accomplishments (vocal or instrumental) will be considered favourably.

Regard for equality: As a Lutheran parish under the auspices of the Lutheran Church of Germany, female applicants will receive equal consideration and are encouraged to apply.

Brief Description: The congregation is calling for a Pastor who:

  • possesses a genuine joy in preaching the Word of God
  • has an effective and inspirational worship leadership style
  • is willing to implement a vision that advances discipleship in the current generation, including new forms of worship, programs and initiatives
  • has an approachable, open and friendly disposition
  • displays a particular desire to develop a ministry program that connects with younger people
  • has a proven ability to administratively manage a church applying good governance principles

Remuneration: Salary package will take into consideration qualifications, experience and be in accordance with LCA guidelines.

Further Information: Detailed Job Description and Key Selection Criteria are available on request

Please contact: Chrissy Kelly recruitment1@stjohnsgerman.com

Closing Date: 17th October 2022

If this story has raised difficult things for you and you are seeking support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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