Highland Baptist Church

A Search Committee for an “Associate Pastor for Ridgewood” began its work on November 4, with members from both Highland and Ridgewood making up the search group.  They hope to move quickly in filling this new position.

The job description is posted on both churches’ websites and resumes may be sent to <jphelps@hbclouky.org>.

The minister who is called will serve full-time at Highland’s partner congregation: Ridgewood Baptist Church, about a 20-25 minute drive southwest of Highland.  Joe Phelps, HBC Pastor, will continue to be the primary preacher at Ridgewood’s 1:00 p.m. Sunday worship service, with the Associate filling in once a month.  Joe will also serve as the staff supervisor for the Associate for Ridgewood.

We are looking for a minister who is passionate about growing a progressive voice of faith in a large section of our city that does not have this kind of faith voice.  The minister called to this work will need to be an extrovert, creative in finding ways to reach people, a self-starter, organized and able to lead a church in forming itself for mission and growth, and gifted in pastoral care.

The salary and housing for the position is $35,000, plus $300/month for medical coverage.  Retirement benefits are not offered in the first year.

Job Description is shown here.

Last week, I was fortunate enough to accompany more than thirty youth to Passport camp in Macon, GA.  We participated in group devotions, worship, individual devotions, and lots of fun activities. A central part of the camp was mission work.  We divided into groups of youth from various churches. Some went to a day center for kids, and the rest of us worked on houses and sites around Macon.

My group went to the home of Ms. Spivey.  Her home was in serious need of repair.  Other groups before us had already been there, but there was still so much to do.  Many of the homes in the area had already fallen in on themselves. Ms. Spivey’s home appeared to be structurally sound, but in significant need of help.  We scraped, and painted, and painted, and painted. It was hard (and sometimes tedious) work in the July heat of Macon, GA.

God is present on Friday night  . . .

                When an alcoholic reads scripture and is applauded for her efforts

                During the extended, joyous time of passing the peace

                In Joe’s reassuring message of love and empathy for people hungering for both