Senior Pastor

Pastoral Vacancy Announcement

About Mount Zion Baptist Church

Situated in Arlington, VA, Mount Zion Baptist Church stands as a steadfast "Kingdom Focused Church" and a vital anchor within the local community. With roots traced back to the Freedman’s Village in the 1860s, the church has been a beacon of faith and community resilience. As the church embark on a new chapter of growth and ministry, guided by the indomitable spirit of Joshua, Mount Zion Baptist Church is fervently seeking a revitalizing leader to join the church in shaping the next phase of the church's spiritual journey.

Mount Zion is an active member of the National Baptist Convention, The Progressive National Convention, the Virginia Baptist State Convention, and the Northern Virginia Baptist Association. Mount Zion believes in living and leading in accordance with Biblical qualifications as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1: 5-9, placing the conveyance of the Word of God as a high priority.

Qualities We Seek

The ideal candidate will have experience in meeting the spiritual needs of a historical African American congregation, possess strong preaching and teaching skills, and exhibit administrative and leadership skills.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead Deacon ordinances and ministerial events, including monthly communions, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and baby dedications.

- Ensure that relevant, high-quality training in discipleship and leadership skills is made available to ministerial staff, designated ministry leads and office staff.

- Partner with and lead efforts in developing ministry leaders and providing wise counsel to members and Clergy designates.

- Clearly and persuasively communicate in both written and oral formats as well as exhibit proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

- In partnership with the Official Board, ensure that the Constitution and By-Laws are consistently adhered to.

Qualifications Required

- Licensed and ordained in the Baptist faith.

- Master's degree, earned from an accredited college, university, or seminary with a concentration in religious studies, theology, or divinity.

- Pastoral experience of 5 years or more.

Preferred Degree

- DMin or PhD in religious studies, theology, or divinity.

Characteristics We Value

Mount Zion is seeking an enthusiastic and innovative leader, to guide the church as we move forward. In the words of Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Mount Zion Baptist Church is dedicated to continuing to be a beacon in the community, strengthening relationships with youth and young people, addressing the concerns of the congregation, and embracing innovation in leadership. If the candidate is a progressive revitalizing leader, inspired by the spirit of Joshua, Mount Zion invites the candidate to unite with the church on this journey of faith and growth.

Compensation and Benefits

Mount Zion Baptist Church is committed to ensuring that the Senior Pastor is well-supported as the Senior Pastor leads us into this new chapter of growth and ministry. A competitive salary commensurate with experience is negotiable, reflecting the church's commitment to recognize and value the expertise and dedication of the Senior Pastor. In addition to a competitive salary, Mount Zion Baptist Church may offer a comprehensive benefits package, to include, but not limited to: health insurance, retirement contributions, a housing allowance and other benefits.

TO APPLY: Please submit a resume, cover letter, ordination certificate, license and other requested materials.

Please upload all requested materials. The Application Deadline is April 30, 2024. Candidates that previously applied have been evaluated and need not reapply.