An Update on the search for a new pastor – 11 July 2021

The journey of searching for a new Pastor of Living Church has been one we’ve been on for nearly 2 years.

Earlier in the year, we entered the Private Phase of the search with a candidate, who met with the Board, Selection Committee and Staff Team for initial discussions. The Board then underwent a 5 week process of prayer and discernment, with input from the committee and staff.

At the May Board Meeting, it was agreed the candidate would be invited to preach for a call.

It’s exciting to announce James Snare and his family will be visiting Living Church, and James will be preaching at both services at Carina in our Sermon on the Mount series. We had hoped this visit would take place the weekend of 25th July, but with the current lockdown in greater Sydney and Central Coast, it is anticipated the visit will be postponed to a later date to be advised.

When the Snares visit, we hope to have an all church picnic between the AM and PM services, to which the whole Living Church Family is invited. This will be an opportunity to show James and his family a little of the Living Church community.

This morning James informed his current congregation at Gosford Presbyterian – where he has been serving as assistant minister – of his intentions to preach for a call at Living Church. 

At a Congregational Meeting at a later date, we will be voting on whether or not to call James to be the Pastor of Living Church. In order to vote from the most informed position as possible, it is hoped you will make a special effort to come and meet James, listen to his preaching, and engage with him and his family.

A little bit about James Snare

Husband to Fiona, and father to Lily (10), Daniel (8), Matthew (7), and Asher (5)

Currently serving as Assistant to the Minister at Gosford Presbyterian Church.

Education

2012-2015
Bachelor of Divinity, Hons. 1st Class
Moore Theological College

2016-2017
Master of Arts (Theology)
Christ College

2018-to be completed 2023
Doctor of Philosophy (Theology)
Christ College