Pastor King’s Church Penwortham near Preston

This role serves King’s Church Penwortham (near Preston) which is a local church of 50 members within the Free Methodist Church in the UK and Ireland, a movement rooted in Wesleyan-Arminian theology. The Free Methodist Church is committed to being Bible-inspired, Spirit-led, and mission-driven. It places a high priority on discipleship, evangelism, and serving communities with the transformative message of the gospel. This position provides an exciting opportunity for a pastor to lead and support the local congregation in fulfilling its mission “To Know God and make Him known”. The pastor will work collaboratively with church leadership to advance God’s Kingdom locally, regionally, and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Vision and Collaboration: Work with the leadership team to discern and implement God’s vision for the church and its community. Support the leadership in aligning church ministries with its mission and values. Contribute to strategic planning and initiatives for church growth and outreach.
• Preaching and Teaching: Preach and teach biblically sound, Spirit-led messages that inspire spiritual growth. Support the development and delivery of discipleship courses and small group content. Foster theological depth and practical application in teaching.
• Discipleship and Evangelism: Equip and disciple the congregation to live out their faith and reach others with the gospel. Lead and initiate ministries that engage youth, young adults, and families. Develop and participate in outreach initiatives, e.g., Alpha and community events.
• Pastoral Care: Provide pastoral care to individuals and families, addressing spiritual, emotional, and relational needs, including those at home or in hospital. Collaborate with pastoral care teams to ensure consistent support across the congregation.
• Community Engagement and Mission: Build relationships with schools, churches, and community organisations to serve the local area. Represent the church in the community, working to expand the church’s outreach.
• Charity Governance and Policy Implementation: Collaborate with the trustees to ensure good charity governance is maintained, adhering to legal and denominational requirements. Work together to develop, review, and implement policies that align with the church’s mission and legal obligations, ensuring safeguarding, financial stewardship, and operational practices meet the highest standards of accountability and care. Promote a culture where these policies are understood, embraced, and integrated into the church’s daily life, embedding them into the values and practices of the church through collaboration with leadership and the congregation.
• Leadership Development: Mentor and support volunteers and ministry leaders, empowering them to serve effectively. Collaborate with the leadership team to ensure all aspects of the church’s ministry are covered.
• Administrative Support: Involvement in church administration, including planning meetings, reporting, and ministry oversight. Work closely with leadership teams to ensure effective communication and coordination across the church.

Person Specification

• Qualities: Has a vibrant and growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ, demonstrated by a prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit. With a heart for people and community transformation, is passionate about God’s Word, discipleship, and evangelism. They model shepherd leadership with integrity, humility, and spiritual maturity in both church leadership and personal life.
• Qualifications: Theologically trained with a commitment to Wesleyan-Arminian theology. A record of experience in church leadership or ministry, preferably in a team-oriented context.
• Skills and Competencies: An effective communicator who can preach and teach in a way that inspires and equips others. Relationally skilled, with the ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds. Organised and capable of balancing multiple responsibilities. Knowledgeable about charity governance and skilled in promoting a culture of accountability and compliance. Creative and adaptable in using technology and social media for ministry.

Work Environment and Opportunities: Serve in a supportive, prayerful church community with opportunities for growth. Engage in exciting outreach opportunities e.g., connecting with new housing developments or expanding ministries for youth and families. Work within the framework of the Free Methodist Church UK, benefiting from national support.

What We Offer: A welcoming, prayerful church family committed to spiritual growth and mission. A competitive salary of £32,000–£38,330 per annum, depending on time and experience. Note the church has a three bedroomed manse that can be rented to the Pastor if they choose that option. Opportunities for professional development and service within the Free Methodist Church UK & I at a national level.

Application Process: To apply, please send your CV (maximum two pages) and a covering letter to (mark@kingschurchfm.org.uk) explaining why you feel called to this role and how you meet the Person Specification and Key Responsibilities. Application Deadline: 28th February. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and church visits.

Closing Note: We are prayerfully seeking a pastor who will work collaboratively with the church leadership, serve with compassion, and inspire others with vision and passion for God’s Kingdom while promoting good governance and operational excellence within the church. In 2026 King’s Church will be celebrating 40 years since being planted from Fulwood Free Methodist Church. Our current Pastor retires on 1st March 2026. Further details about the church can be found on our website and Facebook site www.kingschurchfm.org.uk.