Cantonese Pastor
Reports To: Elders Board
Employment Type: Full-time
Language Requirement: Must be fluent in Cantonese and proficient in English; Mandarin communication skills are an advantage.
Theological Tradition: must affirm the Reformed theological tradition (e.g., adherence to Westminster Standards)
Church Overview:
We are a multi-congregational ethnic church grounded in the Reformed tradition, consisting of Cantonese, Mandarin, and English congregations. Though distinct in language and ministry style, all three congregations are united under one theological framework, one Elders Board, and a shared mission to glorify God and make Disciples of Christ across cultures and generations.
Position Summary:
Provide pastoral leadership, biblical teaching, and caring support for the Cantonese congregation. Responsibilities include preaching; teaching, discipleship training, and evangelistic outreach, helping the congregation grow spiritually and serve God. The pastor must affirm the Reformed theological tradition and work collaboratively with pastors and church leaders to pursue church unity and the expansion of God’s kingdom.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Preaching and Teaching
- Preach expository, Christ-centered sermons in Cantonese during Sunday worship
- Teach adult Sunday School and lead or oversee Bible studies in Cantonese
- Ensure all teaching is rooted in the Reformed theological tradition and confessions
- Promote biblical literacy and theological depth within the congregation
2. Pastoral Care and Discipleship
- Provide spiritual care and counseling to individuals and families
- Conduct visitations (home, hospital, elderly) and provide prayer support
- Officiate weddings, funerals, baptisms, and other sacraments according to Reformed practice
- Mentor and disciple members to grow in faith and service
3. Ministry Oversight and Leadership Development
- Oversee and support various Cantonese ministries (e.g., fellowship groups, seniors, outreach, small groups)
- Equip and develop lay leaders and ministry volunteers
- Encourage intergenerational discipleship and leadership continuity
4. Administrative and Collaborative Responsibilities
- Participate in leadership meetings (e.g., Elders Board, pastoral staff)
- Collaborate with Mandarin and English pastors to maintain theological and mission unity
- Contribute to church-wide initiatives, joint services, and events
- Work closely with the church office for ministry coordination and communication
5. Evangelism and Community Engagement
- Develop outreach strategies to reach Cantonese-speaking individuals and families
- Engage with local ethnic communities and support newcomers and immigrants
- Encourage personal evangelism and missions within the congregation
Qualifications:
- A personal and growing relationship with Jesus Christ
- Fluency in Cantonese; ability to communicate in English (written and verbal); Mandarin communication skills are an advantage.
- A Master of Divinity (M.Div) or equivalent from an accredited Reformed or evangelical seminary
- Strong commitment to Reformed theology and confessions (e.g., Westminster Standards)
- Minimum 3 years of pastoral experience preferred (especially in a Chinese or multicultural church context), North American pastoral experience is preferred
- A humble, collaborative, and servant-hearted leadership style
Preferred Attributes:
- Cultural understanding of Chinese immigrant and diaspora communities
- Experience serving in a multi-congregational or multi-generational church
- Able to navigate cultural and generational differences with wisdom and grace
- Passion for shepherding, biblical teaching, and spiritual formation
How to Apply:
Please submit to [email protected]
- Cover Letter
- Resume / CV
- Personal Testimony and Statement of Faith
- Philosophy of Ministry (including views on Reformed theology and multicultural ministry)