Ministry Opportunity
Lead Pastor
Acme Open Bible Church
The Church
Acme Open Bible Church has a rich history, beginning in 1957 in a one-room schoolhouse. It has since grown into a beautifully updated facility of approximately 15,000 square feet, located at 725 Bear Rocks Rd, Acme, PA. (See the pictures provided.) The church features a stunning sanctuary, numerous classrooms, offices, conference spaces, and small meeting rooms. Additionally, there is a dedicated area for children's church, a fellowship hall, and a 3,750 square foot gymnasium. The ministry's potential and community involvement are boundless. The church is debt-free and financially stable, with all maintenance up to date. The facility is fully prepared to support impactful ministry.
A few years ago, the church was vibrant and thriving. However, like many churches, the Covid pandemic and other challenges have led to a decline in attendance over the past few years. Currently, about 25 adults regularly attend services, with a diverse membership that includes children, young adults, young families, and seasoned saints. The congregation is enthusiastic about welcoming a new lead pastor who can refresh the church’s vision, foster community within the church, and strengthen ties with the outside community.
The church boasts a strong leadership team that wholeheartedly supports the lead pastor’s vision and direction. Recognizing that change is essential, the church members are eager to be actively involved in the transformation process. Historically, the church has hosted a well-attended community rummage sale each year, has a robust women’s ministry that meets mid-week, and offers a children’s ministry during services. Additionally, the church places a high value on missions and has been a strong supporter of missionaries.
The potential for this church to impact the community is significant, requiring minimal effort to realize that potential. With the long-term pastor having retired at the end of last year, Acme Open Bible Church is ready to enter a new season under the guidance of a new pastor who can lead the congregation toward renewed fruitfulness.
*Acme Open Bible Church is affiliated with Open Bible Churches and operates under the leadership of Open Bible East Churches. The church follows a governance style that is managed by both the pastor and the board, with membership ratification in the selection of pastors, approval of large expenditures, and participation in an annual business meeting to review finances and update the congregation.
More on Open Bible Churches as a whole- (Link)
More Information on Open Bible East Churches- (Link)
The Lead Pastor
The Acme Open Bible leadership search team is looking for a pastor who possesses a strong personal and spiritual life. This individual should have a deep belief in the Word of God, connect well with people, and demonstrate humble confidence when speaking the truth in love. Additionally, the ideal candidate's life should reflect integrity and inner strength of character.
The search team emphasizes the importance of being skilled in leading change and and a commitment to engaging with the community. They do not have a predetermined age range for their next pastor and recognize this will be a bi-vocational position. However, they hope it can evolve into a full-time role as the church grows. The next pastor will need to either secure part-time employment or have another source of income to supplement the church's compensation for the time being, but the church wants to help their new pastor relocate and integrate within the community.
The church is also open to the pastor's spouse being employed, understanding that this is a reality for many families today. They have no expectations regarding the spouse's involvement in ministry, allowing them the freedom to embrace their individual calling.
For context, the former pastor was a strong teacher and led worship within the church. The congregation is aware that not all pastors are equipped to lead worship, and they recognize the need to build a worship team for the future.
The Community
Acme, Pennsylvania, is an unincorporated community situated in the Laurel Highlands region of southwestern Pennsylvania about 45 minutes southeast of Pittsburgh. Located in Westmoreland County, Acme encompasses parts of Donegal and Mount Pleasant townships, as well as a portion of Bullskin Township in Fayette County. The area is renowned for its scenic beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions.
Population and Demographics
As of the latest available data, Acme has a population of approximately 3,738 residents, resulting in a population density of about 67 people per square mile. The median household income is around $71,290, which is slightly above the state average of $66,082. Acme Open Bible Church is located right outside of Mt Pleasant Pa. Link to Mount Pleasant website. (Link)
Attractions and Activities
Acme offers a variety of attractions and recreational activities:
Polymath Park Resort: This 130-acre resort features four architectural landmarks, including two Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes and two by his apprentice, Peter Berndtson. Visitors can tour these homes and even stay overnight.
Silver Horse Coffee: We feed the hunger, quench the thirst, and get you the energy you'll need to enjoy the beautiful mountains, forests, and streams that kiss our patchworked skies. We provide the finest coffees, burritos, pastries, and local goods to guarantee that you experience and remember your time in the Laurel Highlands.
Seven Springs Mountain: Seven Springs Mountain Resort is the perfect place for family vacations that create lifelong memories. So much more than exceptional snowsports, Seven Springs' legendary service provides guests with relaxing escapes. Take the entire family skiing in the morning, take a shot at sporting clays or enjoy the thrills of snow tubing in the afternoon, enjoy a luxurious spa treatment in the evening before a great dinner and then do it all again the next day after a relaxing overnight stay.
Hidden Valley Resort: Hidden Valley is a scenic year-round family resort located in Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands. In the winter, Hidden Valley opens up to 29 slopes and trails for skiing and snowboarding. Guests can also enjoy a snowtubing park. The resort also offers a Mountain Spa and Sports Club with indoor pool. Overnight lodging is available in the Four Seasons Lodges and in private resort rental properties. In the summer, guests enjoy a championship mountaintop 18-hole golf course complimented by hiking, biking, mountain boarding and more!
Chestnut Ridge Park: Features a 25-acre recreational lake with a boat launch and walking trails, ideal for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Donegal Highlands Golf Course: An 18-hole public golf course catering to golfers of all skill levels.
Acme Speedway: Hosts kart racing events every Saturday night from mid-April through late September.
Acme, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and other recreational pursuits. Here are some local options:
Fishing:
Acme Dam: Located in Acme, the dam provides opportunities for fishing. Anglers can target species such as bass, trout, and panfish.
Chestnut Ridge Park: Situated atop Chestnut Ridge, this park features a 25-acre recreational pool that expands during flood periods and includes a boat launch area. Boating and fishing are popular activities here.
Laurel Hill State Park: Located in nearby Somerset County, this park offers a 63-acre lake stocked with various fish species. The park also provides amenities such as picnic pavilions, hiking trails, and camping facilities.
Hunting:
Chestnut Ridge Park: In addition to fishing, the park offers hunting opportunities. Hunters can pursue species like deer, turkey, and small game.
Forbes State Forest: Located in nearby Fayette County, Forbes State Forest encompasses nearly 60,000 acres and offers hunting opportunities for various game species. The forest also features hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic vistas.
Other Outdoor Activities:
Indian Creek Valley Sportsman Association: Based in Acme, this community organization promotes outdoor sports and recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and other pursuits. Membership may be required for certain activities.
Laurel Highlands: This region offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting. The Youghiogheny River Gorge, for example, is known for its whitewater boating opportunities.
Industry and Employment
The economy of Acme is primarily driven by agriculture, tourism, and local businesses. The presence of attractions like Polymath Park and Stone Villa Wine Cellars contributes to the local tourism industry. Additionally, the community's proximity to larger towns and cities provides residents with access to a broader range of employment opportunities.
Community Highlights
Acme is known for its tight-knit community and scenic views. The area offers a range of year-round outdoor activities suitable for all ages, including hiking, fishing, and exploring local parks. The town's rural character is maintained through community efforts, and it serves as a gateway to the Laurel Highlands, attracting visitors to its natural beauty and cultural sites.
For more information about Acme and its offerings, you can visit the official website of the Laurel Highlands region: (Link)
“This opportunity is ideal for someone who loves the outdoors, has a passion for ministry with outreach to the local community, and enjoys building personal connections.”
Interested Applicants
Should submit the following attachments to Pastor Josh Grimes, the Regional Executive Director for Open Bible East, at pastorjosh@openbibleeast.org.
Cover Letter: Write a heartfelt cover letter explaining why you are applying. Aim to convey your passion and sincerity.
Resume: Include your education, work experience, and personal background. Feel free to share insights about your family history.
Philosophy of Ministry: Describe how you envision ministry operating within the local church context.
Pastoral Applicant Questionnaire: Complete the provided questionnaire to share more about your qualifications.
Reference Letters: Obtain three letters of reference from individuals who are familiar with your ministry work.
Recent Family Photo: Include a recent photograph of your family.
Recent Sermons: Provide links to three recent sermons (video or audio format preferred). Aim for a variety of preaching styles, such as a topical sermon, a vision-based sermon, or a teaching-style sermon, but the choice is yours.
If you have any questions, need the Pastoral Applicant Questionnaire or would like some examples, you can contact Pastor Josh at pastorjosh@openbibleeast.org or 937-898-2864