The Bethel Brethren Church is searching for our next pastor to lead our congregation as we seek to grow and serve God in Berne, Indiana. We are searching for a leader who is Genuine (who is open about the personal struggles of living for Jesus), Relational (who reaches out to engage people where they are), and is a gifted preacher (who effectively communicates how to apply God’s Word to our lives in a way that is relevant in today’s culture). Berne is a wonderful rural place to live, worship and serve that has a strong heritage in Biblical and conservative values. We hope that through these materials, you can get a picture of who we are and the growth and ministry potential we have. We invite you to read through this introduction to our church and community as you prayerfully consider the Bethel Brethren Church in Berne, Indiana.
Our History in Brief
The Bethel Brethren Church was organized on December 14th,1889. The church began with sixteen charter members. It was the outgrowth of a series of revival meetings held by Rev. J.H. Swihart. The church started out meeting in the Hisey schoolhouse. In 1892 a church building was constructed on donated farmland near the Indiana / Ohio state line about 6.5 miles east of Berne. In 1912, 1939, 1941 and 1963 additions to the original building were constructed.
In the 1960’s and 70’s, the nature of farming was undergoing a significant change. With the consolidation of farms there were fewer people on larger farms in our rural area. More and more families were moving to town for jobs. In 1973 after a lot of research and careful planning, the church was moved to a new facility in Berne proper. From 1971 to 1996 we have had three senior pastors, three associate pastors and one interim pastor. Joseph Nass began his ministry as our twenty-sixth pastor in 1996 and has served us for twenty-eight years. He is the church’s longest serving pastor and recently announced his desire to retire.
Our Church Facilities
Our church facilities are on a single level and handicap accessible. The original building was constructed in 1973. Our Sanctuary seats 275 people. The Fellowship Hall is divided by folding partitions for five classes. We also have a Nursery, a Toddler Room and two offices between Auditorium and Fellowship Hall. A gymnasium is attached to the church which includes a nice kitchen. This addition was completed in 2007. The entire church facilities are air conditioned and are kept in good repair.
Position Summary
The Senior Pastor shall be the spiritual leader of the church in all of its ministries and activities. He shall preach the Word of God faithfully and shall be in charge of the public worship of the church. He shall administer the Communion with the assistance of the deacons. The pastor shall oversee and shepherd the congregate on and the spiritual welfare of the church and organize and develop the churches strengths.
See the full job description here.