In May 2022, ELPC members were nominated to form the Interim Pastor Nominating Committee (IPNC). They include: Hollen Barmer, Damon Bethea, Douglas Cooper, Becky Gloninger, Polly Mattila (chairperson), Andrew Simpson, and Cami Teacoach. Our first meeting was led by the Rev. Brian Wallace (Presbytery Staff) and the Rev. Dr. Vincent Kolb (Committee on Ministry Transition Liaison) with the purpose of orienting the IPNC to the interim pastor search process.
Our work started by describing ELPC to potential candidates using the Ministry Information Form (MIF) from PC(USA). After completing the MIF, we presented it to Session in July for approval and it was posted on PC(USA).org. Potential candidates were either matched based on their Personal Information Form (PIF) or were self-nominated. Top candidates were chosen based on prayer, thoughtful reading and discussion of their PIFs, and viewing of their sermons. At this time, we have narrowed the search to four potential candidates, with the intention of inviting no more than three pastors for an in-person interview.
We have approached selecting an interim pastor with humility and openness to guidance from the Holy Spirit. The IPNC is blessed to be filled with members who come with diverse backgrounds and input, but who also come with respect, thoughtfulness, and the best intentions when we meet. We ask for your prayers and patience during this search.
Thank you and blessings,
Interim Pastor Nominating Committee