The church is seeking applicants for a half-time (50%) Stated Supply, Temporary Supply Pastor or Commissioned Lay Pastor, approximately 23 hours per week, for a term of one year, renewable annually. Several nearby Presbyterian churches are also seeking pastors and we would welcome proposals for pastor-sharing. We would also welcome inquiries from pastors certified by “Formula of Agreement” denominations.

 

Overview

The First Presbyterian Church is in the heart of Holley, an historic village of 1700 people established in the 19th Century when the Erie Canal opened up the entire region to unprecedented commerce and prosperity. While centered in a commercial village, we are primarily a rural, agricultural area. The village is within easy driving distance of Rochester and the larger towns of Brockport, Albion and Batavia. The church was established in 1819 as a Congregational Church, and became Presbyterian in 1831. Our present building dates from 1907, with an addition added in 1959 to house classrooms and offices. In 2015 the church was placed on the Historical Society Registry and works with the Landmark Society.

The church is relatively small in numbers, a membership of 46 and attendance on Sundays of 15-20. The membership is 100% Caucasian. Most members live within a five-mile radius of the church building. Yes, we are a small congregation, but we have a big heart for mission in the community and beyond!

Here are the ways we engage in mission (1) Active and engaged sponsorship of Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops that use our building, (2) Support for the programs and participants of the Eastern Orleans Community Center located a few doors down the street. (3) Support for construction of two school buildings and a medical clinic in Kayaskita, Nicaragua; with several visits to Nicaragua.  (4) On-going budget support for the mission causes of the Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly.

In a situation exacerbated by the restrictions of the Covid Pandemic, the Sunday School is currently inactive, but the congregation is eager to make a better connection with families in the Village of Holley and the surrounding Town of Murray.

Sunday worship is the most important time for our faith family each week. Music is an essential part of the experience. We have a Steinway piano and a pipe organ and a choir. We especially enjoy coffee hours and meals that follow worship. Complementing our Sunday gatherings are extraordinary stained-glass windows and a beautiful Sanctuary.  We love our building, but it is the people–ourselves and those we meet beyond our walls–that is the heart of our ministry!

 

What we are seeking in a pastor:

  • Someone present, visible, active and inviting in our community.
  • Someone insightful about mission strategies in our community and beyond.
  • Will work with our unicameral Session and Board of Deacons in setting our course.
  • Will prepare topical and meaningful Sunday sermons.
  • Will officiate at Communion once per month; baptisms, weddings and funerals as needed.
  • Coordinate with deacons and the congregation in visiting sick, elderly and home-bound members.
  • Oversee part-time staff.
  • Participate in the work of the Presbytery of Genesee Valley.

 

Compensation:

At 50% of the Minimum Terms of Call established by the Presbytery of Genesee Valley, the 2022 total Non-Installed Pastor compensation, including pension and major medical, is approximately $30,000; for Commissioned Lay Pastors approximately $22,000. The pastor will negotiate terms of call annually with the church’s Administrative/Personnel Committee. This will also include an annual Personnel Review.

Contact:

  • Church Office: 585-638-6770
  • Carole Lane, Clerk: 585-638-6863
  • Committee on Ministry Contact: Rev. James Renfrew, Session Moderator, 585-813-2934, jim.renfrew@gmail.com

 

First Presbyterian Church of Holley, 34 East Albion Street (PO Box 282), Holley, NY  14470

 

Posted 11/19/22

 

Position Description PDF