A Religious Leader or Professional leads religious services and provides spiritual guidance or counseling. Presents knowledge and interpretation of theological texts. May work in a non-denominational setting like a prison or hospital, or work for specific faith-based congregation or denomination and follow the practices of that faith.
Meet Westmont Presbyterian Church Established in 1926, Westmont Presbyterian Church (WPC) is a traditional congregation known throughout the Johnstown community for its rich history of service and welcoming environment-earning it the local reputation as the warm church . Worship serves as the foundation of WPC s ministry, characterized by conservative theology and an exceptional music program that regularly draws in the broader public through classical and sacred concerts. Beyond Sunday morning services, the congregation actively lives out its faith through robust education programs, dedicated fellowship, and extensive community outreach. As a Christ-centered, biblically based, and servant-led body, WPC remains committed to reaching others with selfless love and divine grace. About the Senior Pastor The Senior Pastor at Westmont Presbyterian Church will serve as the primary spiritual and organizational leader, reporting directly to the Session Elders and the Presbytery while overseeing a dedicated staff of four direct reports. At the core of this role, the pastor is expected to glorify God, adhere to the Presbyterian Book of Order, and deliver engaging, biblically grounded sermons from the heart that offer practical applications for everyday life. Beyond Sunday morning worship, the ideal candidate will provide compassionate pastoral care-including hospital and homebound visitation-and serve as the primary spiritual counselor for those navigating grief, trauma, or questioning their faith. This high-energy, relational leader must also be capable of administering the sacraments, mediating disputes with transparent communication, and actively engaging with the children and youth programs that represent the future of the church. Ultimately, WPC seeks an adaptable, experienced minister who can smoothly manage church departments without micromanaging, effectively moderate Session and congregational meetings, and inspire the congregation to further God s kingdom. The Senior Pastor s responsibilities include: Glorify God and enjoy God forever, while following the Presbyterian Book of Order. Prepare and deliver weekly biblically based sermons from the heart, offering practical applications to daily life. Provide and oversee pastoral care, including visiting hospital patients, the sick, and shut-ins. Act as the primary spiritual counselor (providing pre-marital counseling, grief and trauma support, and guidance for questioning believers). Administer communion, baptisms, weddings, and funerals. Lead Session meetings and moderate regular congregational meetings to provide spiritual leadership. Manage church departments and supervise staff effectively, without micro-managing. Mediate disputes with transparent communication and promote unity within the church body. Engage with Children and Youth Programs, recognizing them as the future of the church. What you bring The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the
Senior Pastor:
Education and Experience An undergraduate degree and a Master of Divinity (M.Div). Ordained (or ordainable) within the PCUSA or adjacent denominations. Ideally possesses 7 to 10 years of ministry experience (must have at least 2 to 5 years minimum). Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities A compelling, conversational preaching style that utilizes storytelling and humor to relate the Bible to everyday life, rather than reading from a script. Strong pastoral empathy and active presence. An ability to cast vision and teach others to do the work of ministry. A proven ability to relate to and connect with young families. Personal Characteristics and Qualifications A high-energy people person who is relational, approachable, and outgoing. Open, adaptable to change, and willing to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. All qualified candidates are welcome regardless of gender, race, or marital status. What it s like to live in Johnstown, PA Centrally located in Pennsylvania s beautiful Laurel Highlands, the Greater Johnstown Metro Area has a population of around 130,000 and is about 60 miles from downtown Pittsburgh. The area was voted #8 on the U.S. News & World Report list of Best Places to Live in Pennsylvania and boasts an exceptional Livability Score of 77/100. Residents enjoy a friendly atmosphere, affordable median home values, and a cost of living 19% lower than the state average. Johnstown is highly regarded for its rich arts culture, featuring a Community Arts Center, Shakespeare in the Park, and a wonderful symphony. It is an evolving, safe community (with crime rates well below the national average) and an incredible place to raise a family. The community offers world-class healthcare, including a Level 1 Trauma Center, and extensive outdoor recreation including biking trails, lakes, kayaking, and four world-class ski resorts within an hour s drive.
