Associate Pastor - Sharptown Church

Associate Pastor - Sharptown Church

Sharptown Church – Associate Pastor (Succession Track to Senior Pastor)

Sharptown Church is a dynamic multi-generational faith family committed to Biblical authority, shaped by grace, and actively engaged in serving one another and our community. Our weekly gatherings maintain a welcoming culture of encouragement with a practical commitment to making an eternal difference.

The leadership team is seeking an applicant called by God to serve as Associate Pastor alongside the Senior Pastor with a clear path toward succession. This role begins as part of a small, close-knit staff team responsible for day-to-day operations, while also providing input and perspective on direction. Designed as a succession pathway, the position includes mentoring and shared leadership responsibilities that intend to lead to the role of Senior Pastor.

About Sharptown Church

We are located in rural Salem County, NJ, where shared values and vibrant community shape daily life. Surrounded by the Jersey Shore and metropolitan Philadelphia, the region offers small-town charm with access to urban conveniences—a wonderful place to grow, serve, and live with purpose.

Sharptown has a courageous and faithful history. Rooted in the Wesleyan Holiness tradition, our church recently discerned a unanimous decision to leave the United Methodist Church and align with the Church of Christ in Christian Union. This step reflects our commitment to God’s Word and to a holiness-centered witness in our community.

Today, Sharptown hosts three Sunday services with a growing online presence. Each gathering features Spirit-led worship, relevant biblical messages, and strong age-level ministries. Compelled by the transforming message of Jesus, we are committed to a gospel movement that transforms lives, deepens relationships, and reflects God’s love.

Candidate Profile

The search committee is prayerfully seeking an inspiring communicator who will guide our congregation into its next season of ministry. The ideal candidate is eager to invest in people, develop leaders, and collaborate with staff and volunteers. This person should combine pastoral gifts with vision and leadership capacity to step into the Senior Pastor role.

Education and Experience

• M.Div. or M.A. in Ministry (or equivalent experience) preferred
• Minimum 5 years of service in a local church
• Staff Ministry experience highly preferred

Personal Characteristics and Qualifications

• A personal, growing relationship with Jesus Christ and adherence to biblical authority
• Ability to teach Scripture effectively to a diverse congregation
• Servant-hearted, self-aware, and self-motivated
• Team-oriented with strong interpersonal and organizational skills along with good communications in written, oral, and electronic media
• A strong understanding of and regard for the local church including a desire to develop strategies of growth among children, youth, and adults.

Key Responsibilities

Worship & Teaching

• Assist with or lead worship services
• Preach regularly as a platform speaker
• Lead Bible studies and faith formation programs

Pastoral Care

• Provide spiritual guidance and counseling
• Visit the sick and homebound
• Offer support to those in need

Outreach & Community Engagement

• Develop programs to reach and serve the community including Discipleship Ministries and Missions
• Build relationships with external organizations
• Represent Sharptown at community gatherings

Application Information

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Final candidates will be asked to provide references and consent to standard background checks. All information will be handled confidentially.

This is a unique opportunity to join a vibrant church family, serve in partnership with our current Senior Pastor, and prayerfully prepare to lead Sharptown Church into its next chapter of ministry.