Associate Pastor

Overview:

The Evangelical Free Church of the Palouse (EFCP) is prayerfully seeking an Associate Pastor of young adults, small groups and adult discipleship to partner with our lead pastor, elders and staff in shepherding the body of Christ and reaching the Palouse with the gospel. We are a gospel-centered, biblically rooted congregation located between two major universities (Washington State University and the University of Idaho), with a strong emphasis on discipleship, mission and Spirit-formed community.

As we enter a season of renewed vision and leadership transition, we seek a pastor who will cultivate vibrant spiritual formation among young adults, guide a multiplying ministry of small groups and strengthen adult discipleship across the church. This role reflects our mission to raise worshipful, caring, disciple-making servants of Jesus Christ as we reach our community and the world.

Church Context:

EFCP is a multi-generational church in the Palouse region. Our congregation of 200–250 includes university students, young families and long-time residents who desire to grow in Christ and serve the region together.

Strategically located between Washington State University and the University of Idaho, EFCP has, for 56 years, invested in shaping the next generation. This unique placement provides us with an unparalleled opportunity for gospel impact among students, faculty and young professionals whose influence extends globally, while also deepening the discipleship of those who call the Palouse home.

We affirm the EFCA Statement of Faith and seek to embody a Trinitarian vision of worship, discipleship and mission, rooted in the love of the Father, the grace of the Son and the fellowship of the Spirit.

Key Responsibilities:

Young Adult Ministry
• Build and lead a team to reach and disciple young adults (college-age through 30s).
• Pursue relational evangelism with a consistent presence on local campuses and in community spaces.
• Cultivate spiritual formation, belonging and mission through gatherings, mentoring and shared life.

Small Groups & Adult Discipleship
• Lead the development, care and multiplication of small groups across EFCP.
• Train and support co-leaders to shepherd groups with biblical, relational and missional depth.
• Foster a culture where every adult is invited into discipleship environments—small groups, mentoring and teaching settings—that shape mature followers of Jesus.
• Equip the church to live out John 13:35 & 17:23, hospitality and multiplication as normal patterns of life together.

Shared Pastoral Ministry
• Share in preaching, teaching and shepherding responsibilities with the pastoral team.
• Collaborate with the elder board in spiritual oversight and vision implementation.
• Provide pastoral care, counsel and encouragement to individuals and families.