We are hiring an Associate Pastor of Mission, Justice, and Outreach to collaboratively deepen our understanding and reimagine our participation in what God is doing in the world around us and the neighborhood we are in. Our ideal candidate has experience as a pastor in the church but a desire to explore new ways of doing ministry and living out the Gospel. They must have a passion for justice, outreach, and evangelism.

Click here for the Ministry Information Form.

Reach out to the search committee at [email protected] to start a conversation.

Group photo of the First Pres Berkeley staff as of 2021.

About First Pres Berkeley

First Pres is a vibrant, welcoming community of people of all ages, ethnicities, backgrounds, and circumstances. We are a member congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and located next to a world-class university in Berkeley. Fortified by Gospel-centered preaching and worship, we strive to live boldly and serve humbly. We believe the Spirit is leading us to reimagine mission and engagement to bear hope in a hurting world. Read about our history here.

Hear more about the position

  • A question, followed by staff quotes answering that question. What are we looking for? “Someone with an entrepreneurial mindset who will move us into the future, not maintain the past.” Mary Ellen Azada, Former Associate Pastor for Missions “Someone who will walk outside our front doors—both literally and figuratively—to listen, counsel, guide, and love all people.” Beth Thomsen, Director for Outreach
  • A question, followed by staff quotes answering that question. What kind of experience should this person have? “Experience both inside and outside the church, an individual who knows how to work within existing systems and yet has the courage and wisdom to change the systems that are broken. Through that lens, this pastor will expand our understanding of who our neighbor is and how we can minister to them whether they are a college student or an individual experiencing homelessness. We believe the good news of the Gospel is for everyone, everywhere, in every situation.” Charlene Han Powell, Senior Pastor “Connecting the unconnected congregant, especially College and Young Adult, to Outreach.” David Wagner, Missions Coordinator
  • A question, followed by staff quotes answering that question. How will this pastor lead among a team of pastors: “Someone who will listen and reflect well to current staff and be not only a leader but a partner in ministry. Someone who can work with and appreciate a vibrant and strong congregation who will support and challenge one’s ideas and plans.” Tom Elson, Temporary Supply Associate Pastor for Missional Engagement
  • A question, followed by staff quotes answering that question. How will this position connect with university students and young adults? “The need I see with University students is that the church should try to make the world a better place. The changing dynamic of University Ministry is to practically connect Christ’s love to seeing those in need and doing something about it.” Kathy Timpte, Director of University & Young Adult Ministries

Sound like you or someone you know? Reach out to the search committee at [email protected] to start a conversation.

Our Mission

We are called by God
Transformed by grace
Strengthened in community
Confident that Christ is making all things new.

Now go:
Love concretely, even when it’s risky
Serve generously, whoever has need
And pursue God’s restoring justice.