
Handsboro Baptist Church
Pastor Position Description
Handsboro Baptist Church is a small Southern Baptist church with almost 150 years of history and multiple church plants in the local community. We are seeking a pastor with strong Bible teaching skills emphasizing a literal interpretation of the Scriptures and a genuine loving spirit for the Church.
Service Relationships
The pastor serves under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. He gives and receives counsel from the deacon body, the church council, and heads of the church committees. He serves as chairman of the administrative team and is moderator of church business sessions.
Core Responsibilities
Plan and conduct worship services with the Music Minister or Music Director, develop and deliver sermons and lead in observing church ordinances
Maintain a regular program of study to enable planning and presenting edifying Bible teaching
Actively participate in visitation, outreach and mission activities
Attend to the spiritual well-being of the church
Oversee church staff and administrative activities to ensure effective church operation
Prayerfully shape the long-term mission of the church in coordination with the deacons and ministry teams
Set an example of personal behavior using the standards given in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and 1 Peter 5:1-4.
Ideal Candidate Profile
A person committed to interpreting the scripture through a consistent, historical, grammatical, literal hermeneutic used in primarily expository teaching
An MDiv or equivalent degree from seminary is preferred, but not required
Does not hold to a reformed, replacement, or Calvinist theology
Has a passion for both teaching and shepherding a church
Spends significant time in prayer and bible study
Compensation Package: $50,000 to $70,000, commensurate with experience, education, and talent
Applications should be emailed to: pastorsearchcommittee@handsborobaptist.org
Application Requirements:
Cover letter
Resume
Links to recent video sample sermon
Established in 1874, Handsboro Baptist Church in Gulfport, MS, is a historic yet vibrant spiritual community dedicated to “Reaching the Coast for Christ.” For generations, the church has been a cornerstone of faith, fellowship, and support for individuals and families throughout the Gulfport area.
At the heart of Handsboro Baptist Church is a deep dedication to worship and ministry. Our Sunday Worship Service brings the congregation together for praise, reflection, and learning. We also offer a Wednesday night prayer meeting and a Thursday morning Bible study, providing multiple opportunities each week for spiritual growth and connection.
Handsboro Baptist Church is committed to nurturing faith across all ages. We provide nursery care during services, giving parents the freedom to worship with peace of mind. Our Children’s Ministry offers a welcoming and engaging environment for children to discover God’s love through stories, activities, and fellowship. The Youth Ministry inspires teenagers to grow in faith, build meaningful friendships, and face life’s challenges with a strong spiritual foundation. The Young Adult Ministry supports college students and young professionals, guiding them through faith-filled journeys in an ever-changing world.
For adults, the church offers enriching programs through the Women’s Ministry and Men’s Ministry, which provide opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service. Additionally, Sunday school classes for all ages ensure a deeper understanding of biblical teachings in a supportive group setting. The church’s Christian library is a valuable resource for further faith exploration.
Beyond spiritual services, Handsboro Baptist Church is deeply committed to community outreach. The Food Pantry helps meet the needs of families and individuals in Gulfport and beyond. Each year, we host luncheons honoring firefighters and police officers, expressing our gratitude for their dedication and service to the community. The church also engages in mission trips, school ministry programs, and summer Bible clubs, spreading God’s love both locally and globally.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, Handsboro Baptist Church warmly invites you to experience a community rooted in love, faith, and service. Join us for worship, fellowship, and outreach as we work together to “Reach the Coast for Christ.”