Announcing our new Interim Pastor
As you all know, the Board, through an Interim Search Committee, has been looking for an Interim Pastor to help us through this transition time. The role of an Interim is very specific: they are to not only provide us with preaching, pastoral care, and management, but also help us as a congregation to learn who we are, and where we are going, and help us find the right permanent Senior Pastor to call. In addition, we have looked for someone who can help us find ways toward financial sustainability. For FCCO, an interim is likely to serve from 12 to 18 months.
Because of the specific nature of this position, and the short duration, the hiring decision for this was made by the Board. There was congregational input at varied points along the way - input at congregational meetings into what qualities we were looking for in an interim, 2 at-large congregational members on the search committee, as well as congregational members at the board meeting when the recommendation of the search committee was brought to the board. This is distinctly different than the process for the permanent Senior Pastor, which will be a longer, more drawn out process, with a final vote by the congregation.
The search committee interviewed two candidates. The board is pleased and excited to announce that we have chosen to hire Sara Jean Loveless (she goes as Jeanne) as our new Interim Pastor. Here are some things that the search committee found in its selection process, from her profile, interview and references:
Jeanne:
Because of the specific nature of this position, and the short duration, the hiring decision for this was made by the Board. There was congregational input at varied points along the way - input at congregational meetings into what qualities we were looking for in an interim, 2 at-large congregational members on the search committee, as well as congregational members at the board meeting when the recommendation of the search committee was brought to the board. This is distinctly different than the process for the permanent Senior Pastor, which will be a longer, more drawn out process, with a final vote by the congregation.
The search committee interviewed two candidates. The board is pleased and excited to announce that we have chosen to hire Sara Jean Loveless (she goes as Jeanne) as our new Interim Pastor. Here are some things that the search committee found in its selection process, from her profile, interview and references:
Jeanne:
· Is authentic and spirit-led
· Has a warm, calm, grounded presence
· Laughs easily and gracefully
· Is articulate and candid
Jeanne is called to the special ministry that is being an Interim Pastor, and she has had special training for Interim Pastors. She is a strong, animated preacher, articulate and skillful. She is a strategic thinker who can help us implement effective systems. She has had experience in cultivating wise financial decisions that lead to a balanced budget. She will work collaboratively with lay leaders to promote a healthy church with effective boundaries, clear communication, minimal drama and manageable conflicts.
She is familiar with, and comfortable in intercultural settings. She understands issues of white privilege, and she actively engaged her communities (congregation, denomination) on Proposition 8, at some personal cost.
We are thankful that God has led her to us - the search committee felt that Jeanne was a great fit for First Congo, and the Board agreed. Her exact start date with us is still being determined.
Jeanne will worship with us on Sunday June 6th, and be present to meet the congregation after the service and at the potluck.
Peace,
Michelle Murrain, FCCO Moderator
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