Reminder: The PNC Process
Dear Christ Pres Family,
During announcement time on Sunday, someone asked about what to expect in the remainder of the PNC process. While we shared this information when the committee was first formed, it has been over a year, and most of us could use a refresher.
Here’s a brief look at our journey so far:
PNC Formation & Church Profile: After the congregation elected the PNC, we prayerfully developed and finalized our church profile.
Posting, Receiving and Screening Applications: The profile was posted on various job boards and shared through ECO channels. We have received and screened 22 applications to date. With the review of two sermons per applicant, that's a lot of sermons we've all listened to!
Initial Interviews: About half of the candidates we screened progressed to initial interviews with two PNC members.
Reference Checks & Full Committee Interviews: Roughly half of those who had an initial interview moved forward to reference checks and full committee interviews. Of those, a few have since been called to other positions, while others we felt were quality candidates but ultimately discerned that they were not the right fit for the needs of our congregation at this time.
Next Steps in the Process: Once we have a strong sense that God has led us to a top candidate—and the candidate feels equally called to be at Christ Pres—here is what you can expect:
ECO Review: If the candidate is not already ordained in ECO, they will need to be interviewed and approved by our presbytery Ministry Partnership Team (MPT).
Introduction to the Congregation: Once we receive ECO’s approval, the PNC will prepare a detailed letter sharing our discernment process and highlighting the qualities that led us to put forth the candidate.
Meeting the Candidate: We will schedule a weekend for the candidate and their family to be with us. This will include preaching in worship and opportunities for fellowship and interaction with the congregation.
Congregational Meeting & Vote: Either immediately following that weekend or shortly thereafter, we will hold a congregational meeting. This will include time for questions directed to the PNC, followed by a vote to accept or reject both the candidate and the proposed pastor's salary package.
Throughout this journey, we have been mindful of God’s timing and direction. We ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers—asking the Lord for wisdom, unity, and clarity as we discern together whom God is calling to shepherd our church.