Pastor Search

The Mission Study Committee was appointed by the Session to take the initial steps in the process of selecting new pastoral leadership. The task of these first steps was to determine characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, potential directions for mission and worship, and goals of First Presbyterian Church. The ultimate question facing the MSC has been “What is God’s plan for this congregation?”

The MSC has met at least twice monthly starting in March, 2006. In good Presbyterian fashion, the committee has attempted to be guided by prayer, scripture reading, candid discussion, and analysis of data.

Our committee was asked by the Presbytery of Northern Kansas to use a process written by the Presbytery of Pittsburg, PA in our work.  It was a daunting task as the manual prepared for us consisted of over seventy pages.  While lengthy and requiring more time, we believe using this process enabled us to develop a much clearer picture of our congregation and community.

The MSC has studied several sources of information in preparing this report. A demographic profile of Topeka and Shawnee County Kansas, provided by the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce, has been considered. An interview with a representative from the Topeka City Council was conducted regarding community needs and trends.   A ten year statistical analysis of First Presbyterian Church, prepared by the Presbytery of Northern Kansas, was reviewed.

A telephone survey was conducted among randomly selected members of our congregation seeking answers to the following questions:
What do you think is going especially well at FPC?
What do you think is the most important mission of our congregation?
What areas of our congregation’s life can be improved?

Finally, a written congregational survey, consisting of 21 questions regarding our mission, worship, activities, and facilities was conducted and analyzed.  This report is to be shared with the congregation and is to serve as a guide to the Pastor Nominating Committee in its task of calling a new permanent installed leadership.

The MSC would like to thank all of the members of our congregation who have provided input as we strive “to share God’s love from the heart of Topeka.” 

Faithfully,

The Mission Study Committee:
Dean Carlson
Pam Schauer      
Jamie Corkhill      
Dr. Jim Owen
Gary Koeppen    
Ellen Townsend     
Dr. Gregg Van Sickle    
Rev. Michael Kuner

 Read the entire Mission Study Report

 Link to the Church Information Form

 View a video about our church

 VIDA - Eastboro Life Together Ministry website