We are seeking an enthusiastic individual who has developed multicultural sensitivities (Asian and/or Hispanic) to lead the “replanting” of the English congregation of Living Grace Alliance Church (LGAC). We are currently a predominantly Cantonese church in Baldwin Park, CA that aims to pursue a unique church development opportunity. The goal is to establish a new congregation around the current English congregation that more closely reflects the local community and will participate in a common church life with the Cantonese congregation. The position will begin as a one year part-time contract at 20 hours per week. Co-leading Sunday services for the English congregation (with another staff member) at Living Grace Alliance Church is required, as well as preaching twice a month. Regular staff meetings and monthly meetings with the governing board are also required. Dependent upon congregational growth, the position can become full-time after the one-year contract period.

We welcome applications from seminary interns who can commit to the timeframe and seek to make the job into a full-time position. Bi-vocational pastors who can also manage the time commitment to LGAC are also welcome to apply.

Primary responsibilities:

The individual will take creative initiative in exploring Baldwin Park to seek opportunities of ministerial collaboration or establishment with the English-speaking population of the neighborhood.
The individual is encouraged to think laterally about what it means to do outreach in the community and explore how God is providing opportunities in various spaces beyond traditional areas such as Bible study or VBS.
The individual will be expected to get to know and understand the rhythm of life in Baldwin Park--for example, the ways that the school year impacts the lives of families and how that affects outreach.
The individual must have a solid ability to develop and run programs. Some previous experience is preferred, but not required. This position will also build experience through a close working relationship with the current pastoral staff.
An additional goal of the position will be to aid in facilitating the collaboration of new congregants with the existing members in LGAC.
This may include cultural arbitration and education to build bridges of understanding.
While the ministries operate on their own, the candidate is also expected to learn how to navigate ministry alongside a Cantonese cultural context.

Continuing responsibilities:

If the initiative’s goals are particularly successful, the position may be extended to a full-time position, in which case the position’s specifics will be open to reevaluation to include the following:

Responsibility for raising the necessary funding to be able to accomplish the purpose of the position.
Willingness to undergo licensing by the Christian & Missionary Alliance.

Qualifications:

Master’s Degree or working towards Master’s Degree in a ministry related field
A commitment to a missional church outlook.
A strong desire to grow through leadership.
Equally comfortable working as a self-starter and as a partnered co-worker.
Sensitivity to multicultural environments and a willingness to engage others “where they are.”
Willing to commit to the minimum of a full year to the project.
0-2 years of ministry experience minimum.
Bilingual Spanish speaker is a plus.

Website

lgac.us