Finding the Right Pastor

      This book is a personal account of my experiences with African American churches that were in search of a pastor.  I am in no way trying to give an exhaustive look at all Black churches and their process of calling a pastor. I am sure that there are many well-established and organized pastor search committees, which function properly with the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit.  However, since I am a Baptist preacher, who happens to be an African American, I speak from my own experiences within this denomination. This book has been written so others can give some serious thought about the role of the pastor’s search committee within their church.

       The characteristic of a shepherd is signified when the term “pastor” is used. The pastor emulates a nurturing and caring relationship with the church. The pastor is to lead, feed, guide and guard the flock given to him/her by God. He / she is one who serves and ministers to others. The pastor must maintain a balance between time preaching, teaching, and the overall life of the church. The pastor has the responsibility to oversee all interests of the church. He / she is a standing member of each ministry, auxiliary, committee, board and organization within the body he / she leads. The pastor is highly revered not because he /she  is much better than the congregation, but because they are is the representative of God with a word from God. The pastor makes sure that all things done in the church glorifies God and edifies the body of Christ.