Disciples of Christ

WEEKLY ATTENDANCE: 120

Meet First Christian Church

First Christian Church of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, is a vibrant and deeply rooted Disciples of Christ congregation, a welcoming presence in the community since 1832. Known for its non-judgmental spirit, FCC embraces diverse individuals and perspectives, guided by a mission of making Disciples through relationship, reflection, and response. The church is united in its desire for growth and actively seeks to connect with younger families.

A hallmark of First Christian Church is its profound emphasis on love and relationships, beautifully expressed through its open communion table, where all are welcome. This creates a warm and accepting atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of belonging and care within the congregation and extending into significant community support. FCC proudly has a history of women in leadership and offers engaging programs for all ages, alongside an active outreach ministry.

Valuing authentic faith journeys, First Christian Church actively engages in weekly worship and communion. With a helpful online presence extending its reach, FCC is situated in the appealing Hopkinsville community, offering a low cost of living, recreational opportunities near lakes and state parks, and a family-friendly environment, conveniently located about an hour from Nashville.

About the Senior Minister

First Christian Church of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, a vibrant and welcoming Disciples of Christ congregation, seeks an experienced Senior Minister for a crucial leadership role. This compassionate and effective leader will deliver engaging preaching, shepherd the congregation, and actively manage staff, balancing strategic vision with practical execution. The role involves collaborating with the Leadership Council to oversee staff, connect with members, maintain community presence, and lead inspiring worship. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive growth in a non-judgmental church known for its open communion and focus on relationships, attracting families and developing key ministries.

What you bring

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Senior Minister:

Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree required
• Seminary degree is required
• 3-5 years of ministry experience

Responsibilities, Skills, and Abilities

• Lead and preach engaging sermons and worship services, including administering sacraments like communion and baptism.
• Provide compassionate pastoral care, including visiting members in hospitals, homes, and facilities, and responding to emergencies.
• Oversee and manage church staff (full-time and part-time).
• Maintain a visible and accessible presence in the church office and community.
• Actively participate in the Hopkinsville community and engage with denominational and interdenominational programs.
• Develop and grow key programs, particularly Sunday school and small groups, and work with the Children and Youth Director.
• Identify, train, and raise up a new generation of leaders within the congregation.
• Manage church administration effectively, including maintaining records, and delegate responsibilities.
• Work actively to grow church membership, re-engage existing members, and connect with prospective members.
• Handle conflicts, implement new ideas with decisiveness, and ensure follow-through

Personal Characteristics and Qualifications

• Passion for people and connecting people to the church and within the church.
• A heart for empowering the ministry potential of the core members and developing new leaders.
• Servant-leadership exemplifies the humility and attitude of Christ. 
• Consistent personal habits of prayer and Bible study/meditation
• Demonstrates the qualities of integrity, responsibility, and teachability as a gracious and loving pastor.
• High relational skills and a love for people inside and outside the church.

What it’s like to live in Hopkinsville, KY

Hopkinsville offers a genuinely welcoming atmosphere where you can easily feel connected. Imagine knowing the folks at your local coffee shop by name and running into friendly faces during community events downtown. The town has a comfortable, unhurried rhythm that allows you to breathe and appreciate the simple things. It’s the kind of place where neighbors look out for each other, creating a supportive environment that feels like an extended family. This strong sense of community is a real draw for those seeking more than just a place to live; it’s about finding a place to belong.

Beyond the neighborly feel, Hopkinsville also presents a practical advantage with its attractive cost of living. Your budget can stretch further here, particularly when it comes to housing, which is significantly more affordable than in many other areas, including nearby Clarksville and Nashville. This financial ease allows you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the constant pressure of high expenses. From everyday necessities to local dining and entertainment, your money simply goes further, providing a solid foundation for a less stressful and more secure life.

Living in Hopkinsville provides a convenient blend of peaceful small-town life and accessibility to urban amenities. While you can enjoy the tranquility of a close-knit community and the beauty of the surrounding Kentucky landscape, you’re also within a reasonable drive of larger cities like Fort Campbell, Clarksville, and Nashville. This means you can easily access a wider range of job opportunities, shopping, and entertainment when desired, while still returning to the more relaxed pace of Hopkinsville. It’s a sweet spot that offers both the calm of a smaller town and the convenience of nearby urban centers.