Small Church Working Group
As we serve congregations all over the State of Utah, some of our churches are located in rural places and/or are smaller, yet filled with faithful followers of Christ who spread the love and grace of God in their community. Some of our small and rural churches have difficulties finding pastors to preach and care for their congregations. The Small Church Working Group (SCWG) understands its mission is to find creative and innovative solutions to help those congregations fill the pulpit and receive pastoral care. Located in some of the most beautiful places in our state, these congregations have a lot to offer. Using their location and their eagerness to embark upon new ways of ministry, the SCWG identified three different ways to serve our small and rural churches.
Preach B&B
Preach B&B
This is a short-term (1 to 2 weeks) commitment for Pastors, CLPs, and anybody who is endorsed by their Presbytery to preach the Word and serve Holy Communion. The churches would offer housing, access to National and State Parks, gift baskets, invitations to dinners, and more (see B&B flyer) as incentives for people to come and spend one or two weeks at their location. In return the pastor will lead worship services and serve Holy Communion as needed during their stay. It is a great opportunity for pastors, CLPs and anybody who loves to preach and vacation (with [or without] their family and friends) in some of Utah's most beautiful places.
R&R
Recharge & Rejuvenate
This is a midterm (1 to 6 months) commitment for pastors, retired or active, as well as CLPs who need some time to recharge and rejuvenate. Anybody who would like to take a break, write, play, read, or would like to spend their Sabbatical time in the midst of God’s beautiful creation, is invited to come and spend time in our small and rural churches. The church would offer housing, a stipend, access to National and State Parks, gift baskets, dinner invitations, and more (see sample flyer) as incentives for people to come and spend 1 to 6 months at their location. In return the pastor will lead worship services, serve Holy Communion as needed, and provide a bible study or other activity during their stay. It is a great opportunity for pastors, CLPs, or anybody who loves to recharge and rejuvenate (with [or without] their family and friends) in some of Utah's most beautiful places.
Pastoral Residency
Pastoral Residency
This program is for first call Pastors or seminary students close to receiving a call, and is a long-term commitment of 1 to 2 years. This is ideal for those who would like to explore if God calls them into congregational ministry and would like to come and “play” in one of our churches who are open to being a playground for ministerial development and growth. Congregations would offer housing, salary, access to National and State Parks, gift cards, invitations for dinner and/or recreational time with members, and more (see Residency flyer). In return the congregation receives ministerial care.
The new pastor/seminary student would have time to continue their studies during their stay. Additionally, COM will provide oversight and mentorship as well as work closely with all involved to guarantee a good and inspiring playground experience.
Get Involved
The Small Church Working Group meets as needed via Zoom.
To become involved in the Small Church Working Group, please contact them at
Resources
Congregational Asset Inventory
Pastoral residency application