EFCA

WEEKLY ATTENDANCE: 400

Meet Christ Evangelical Free Church

Christ Evangelical Free Church in Bethel, PA, is a rural, Christ-centered church made up of everyday people from many walks of life, worshiping side by side. What we share is a desire to walk through life together, taking our next step closer to Jesus. We are conservative in our beliefs, grounded in the Bible, and relaxed in our style. You don’t need to dress a certain way or have life figured out to belong here. You’re welcome, whether you’ve been in church your whole life or are just starting to ask questions.

Our worship is contemporary, our teaching is rooted in Scripture, and our culture is welcoming and down-to-earth. We place a strong emphasis on teaching God’s Word and living out our faith in everyday life. We are committed to walking with one another in faith, truth, and grace, and we have a heart to serve our community and care for one another well. If you’re looking for a church that feels like family and points you to Jesus, we invite you to join us at CEFC.

About the Lead Pastor

The Lead Pastor is responsible for:

• Developing and leading the overall ministry vision of CEFC.
• Equipping and shepherding the church with God’s word for maturity in Christ and unity in the body. (Eph 4)
• Helping to prepare believers for works of service so that the church may be built up, growing together in faith, love, and spiritual maturity. (Eph 4)
• Assisting the elder leadership team in overseeing the life and direction of the church.
• Carrying out pastoral leadership of the congregation alongside the team of vocational and lay ministers.

The Lead Pastor's responsibilities include:

General

• Lead and direct staff.
• Work in conjunction with the elders to ensure that all ministries and activities align with the vision of the church.
• Oversee the doctrines and teachings of the church.
• Serve as an Elder of the church by virtue of his office.

Staff Supervision and Administration

• Support staff members as they continue to grow spiritually and professionally.
• Collaborate with the elders to implement a periodic performance review of the staff.
• Oversee and ensure that the pastoral care needs of the congregation are met.

What you bring

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Lead Pastor:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited Bible school or seminary, required.
• 8 + years of pastoral ministry.
• Experience leading a staff team.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Have the heart of a Shepherd for the congregation and the community.
• Clear communicator of God’s Word.
• Able to effectively communicate with the congregation.
• Biblically sound.
• Someone understands and is willing to minister within our culture.

Personal Characteristics and Qualifications

• The Lead Pastor serves on the Elder Board, so his life should reflect the qualifications of an elder as described in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-9 & 1 Peter 5:1-4.
• Candidate must affirm and be in agreement with the doctrinal statements of the Evangelical Church of America and CEFC.
• Spiritually and emotionally mature leader.
• Lifelong Learner.
• Shepherd’s heart.
• Servant leader.
• Trustworthy.
• Approachable.
• Strong moral character, leadership skills, and relational skills.

What it's like to live in Berks County, PA

Life in Berks County is practical, rooted, and relationship-driven. The county is made up of farmland, established neighborhoods, and small boroughs, with many families having deep roots in the area. Overall, Berks feels distinctly rural and small-town in character—a place where people recognize last names and often ask who your family is before they ask what you do.

The surrounding landscape is part of everyday life. Rolling hills, farms, and forests frame much of the county, and residents regularly enjoy simple outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, biking, gardening, and spending time at familiar local places like Blue Marsh Lake, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Reading Public Museum, or Grings Mill Recreation Area—not as special destinations, but as parts of normal life. Seasonal changes are clearly felt and enjoyed here, from hot summers and colorful falls to cold winters and busy springs. 

Berks County has deep historical roots, shaped by generations of agriculture, manufacturing, and hard work, along with strong ties to faith, family, and community life. While Reading, the county seat, provides cultural and historical landmarks, much of daily life centers on local schools, churches, sports programs, and community events rather than large attractions. 

Culturally, Berks County tends to be traditional and modest. There is a strong Pennsylvania Dutch influence in values marked by hard work, thrift, consistency, and loyalty to community. People are generally friendly but reserved; trust is built over time, but once established, it is genuine and lasting.

The city of Reading offers access to healthcare, education, and community resources, while also presenting real ministry needs and challenges that affect the surrounding region. As a result, much of ministry in Berks County involves walking with people through everyday joys and hardships. Housing is generally more affordable than surrounding metropolitan areas, allowing families the space to settle, put down roots, and live at a manageable pace. Many families appreciate the ability to live near extended family, attend local schools, and stay involved in youth sports, music programs, and church activities.

Churches continue to play an important role in community life—serving not only as places of worship, but also as centers for support, service, and long-term relationships. Overall, Berks County is a setting where life and ministry can grow together, with space to build meaningful relationships, raise a family, and serve faithfully within a close-knit community.