In an early announcement to the congregation it was stated that, “conventional wisdom says that the person who sends us a resume is not generally the person we are looking for.”  Does that mean we are not going to consider anyone who sends an unsolicited resume? 

No, it does not.  We were trying to make the point that the process will likely take months to complete and one reason for the extensive time frame is that “generally” unsolicited applications come from individuals who are not the final selection of a committee.  That requires that the committee then go on a search which requires time to make contacts, solicit names, research available information and conduct interviews.  We would really like for the Lord to send the right man early in this process and He may do that but history has shown that it is not often done that way.  We are planning on the long process, hoping for a short one and praying for God’s will in any case.

Where will the committee get candidates?

We have a wide variety of sources. Since Bible Center does not belong to a denomination and therefore does not have access to a large pool of men who subscribe to our stated doctrinal positions, we must rely on people, organizations and ministries that are closely aligned to our beliefs. For example, the mission boards and agencies we support, other churches and their pastors, theological and educational institutions, individuals with a wide range of contacts in ministry and some self directed referrals are all sources of applicants. We encourage anyone who believes they know someone who would match our ministry in philosophy, doctrine and style to submit their name. The simplest way is through this section of our website.

What role does the current pastoral staff play in the search process?

The Search Committee values the experience and knowledge of our Pastoral Team.  Therefore we invite their input and involvement at key points in the selection process. 

I recall that the search committee members were identified in our service but I have forgotten their names.  Can you tell me again who they are?

Yes, they are:

Elders

o   Steve Bupp

o   Charlie McClung

o   Rich Harper

o   Nick Munoz

o   Mike John

o   Joe Pack

o   Wayne Pugh

o   Richard Riffe

Deacon

o   Stan Backus

Members at large

o    Dave Tolley

o    Josh Hanks

o    Rachael Kinder

o    Leigh Legg

o    Beth Vencill

o    Karen Williams

What are the primary qualifications you look for in an applicant?
 
We believe the successful applicant should have the following attributes:

     - An outstanding preacher who utilizes an expository method of delivering the word
     - Experienced in developing, casting and achieving vision
     - Experienced in effectively managing a multi-level staffing structure
     - Flexible approach to the style of worship, able to embrace both a contemporary and traditional format
     - History of managing internal and external ministries in order to further enhance
       BCC’s unique opportunity to  reach all segments of our community
     - Graduate level education
     - Unblemished reputation
     - In agreement with BCC’s constitution regarding our eleven doctrinal positions
 
All of this said, we will seek to know God’s will for our church which may mean we weigh some of the above items in different degrees. God’s choice is seldom what man would have picked without His help.

How many applicants will you consider?

There is no target number. We have already considered 30 applicants and the frequency of new names coming to us is increasing.

Will you consider more than one candidate at a time?

We will consider applicants as they are identified. But the committee will only present one candidate at a time to the congregation. Our prayer is that the work of the search committee will be so directed and blessed by God that only a very highly qualified and recommended candidate will ever be presented for a vote.

How long will the search process take?

There is no way to know. The committee intends to be very deliberate and thorough. We would rather get it right than get it fast, but there is an understanding that sooner would be better than later as long as the right person is found.

Is the search local, regional, or national in nature?

Applicants from throughout the United States have already been considered. We don’t believe the current geographic location of the applicants should be a limiting factor.


Have members of the congregation suggested applicants?
 
Yes and we continue to encourage members of the Bible Center family to submit names. The easiest way is to use this section of the web site.