CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH

WEEKLY ATTENDANCE: 250

Meet Sunnyside Christian Reformed Church

Founded in 1932, Sunnyside Christian Reformed Church is a vibrant, multi-generational congregation located in the heavily agricultural community of Sunnyside, Washington. Rooted deeply in the Bible, the Gospel, and the Reformed tradition, the church blends a strong Dutch heritage with a welcoming, small-town atmosphere and a growing commitment to reflect the rich ethnic diversity of its surrounding valley.  

About the Associate Pastor

Focused on the core vision of "connecting the valley with Christ," the Associate Pastor serves as a key leader in mobilizing the congregation for outreach and spiritual formation. This involves fostering spiritual growth through preaching, teaching, discipleship programs, and pastoral care.

The Associate Pastor's responsibilities include:

• Community Outreach: Provide tangible support for the church's vision to reach the Sunnyside community.
• Discipleship & Volunteer Development: Develop and oversee a small group discipleship ministry, and strategically match volunteer opportunities with individual gifts.
• Preaching & Worship: Preach approximately 10-25% as giftedness allows, share in sacraments, and coordinate various worship teams.
• Pastoral Care & Administration: Support the senior pastor by sharing in pastoral care, teaching, counseling, and church administration. Serve as an elder and the senior pastor's alternate to the classis.

What you bring

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Associate Pastor:

Education and Experience

• A Master of Divinity degree is required.
• Must be ordained or eligible for ordination in the Christian Reformed Church (CRC).
• 5-10 years of ministry experience is strongly desired.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• A self-starter with a high level of initiative who can operate and create daily plans without constant supervision.
• Gifted in Outreach/Mobilization and Discipleship/Small Groups.
• Bonus: Musical ability to read music and assist with worship planning.
• Bonus: Bilingual (Spanish) capabilities and cultural competency with the Hispanic/Latino community.
• Bonus: Technology experience to provide behind-the-scenes support for programs.

Personal Characteristics and Qualifications

• Mature walk with God through a relationship with Jesus Christ.
• An entrepreneurial spirit, yet humble enough to listen and learn.
• Able to navigate complex church cultures and bridge demographic gaps (multi-generational and multicultural).

What it's like to live in Sunnyside, WA

Sunnyside is a primarily agricultural community heavily invested in dairy, apples, hops, grapes, and wine production. Located on the east side (dry side) of the Cascade mountain range, the region experiences four distinct seasons and provides incredible access to outdoor activities. Residents enjoy great gardens, elk hunting to the north, and proximity to the Columbia River (sturgeon fishing) and ski resorts just an hour away. The church is conveniently located next door to Sierra Vista and Sun Valley schools.