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VERMONT CONFERENCE UCC, FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF ESSEX JUNCTION

"According to UCC Constitution and Bylaws 150-151, vacancies within the Conference are reported to the administrative offices of the denomination. An authorized minister may confer with the Conference concerning a pastoral vacancy. At the request of any UCC Ordained Minister or Ordained Ministerial Partner, the conference shall submit a current and validated profile to the Local Church."

Name FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF ESSEX JUNCTION 
 
Share Post http://oppsearch.ucc.org/id/7187
 
City Essex Junction 
 
State VT 
 
Website 1 https://www.fccej.org/v5/ 
 
Website 2 https://www.facebook.com/firstcongregationalej 
 
Website 3 https://www.youtube.com/@FCCEJ 
 
Church Size 400
 
Part Time / Full Time FT
 
Duration Settled
 
Type of Position Senior Pastor
 
Salary Basis https://vermontucc.org/ministerial-compensation/
 
Benefits Salary Plus Benefits
 
Housing Either Housing Allowance or Parsonage Provided
 
Language
 
Ministry Description We seek an experienced, compassionate, highly capable minister to join our caring and vibrant family of faith, and intentionally lead us in our ongoing vision to accept and serve all people in the spirit of Christ. Located in the heart of beautiful Essex Junction, First Congregational Church of Essex Junction (FCCEJ) is a welcoming, joyful, service-driven, active church filled with the Holy Spirit. We strive to live out the words that open every service: “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome in this place.” Through our Cottage Meetings, we heard again and again that these aren’t just words, but a true reflection of who we are and our deeply rooted identity as an Open and Affirming church. Grounded in extravagant welcome, meaningful connection, compassionate service, and spiritual growth, we seek a minister who will partner with us in nurturing a diverse and growing community of faith. Our ideal candidate has experience guiding a large and dynamic congregation, and the ability to inspire, support, and harness the energy and talents of dedicated staff and volunteers to carry out our mission. We are looking for a compassionate leader who connects authentically with people of all ages and fosters meaningful relationships across the congregation. FCCEJ is our home, and we are a family. Together, we are committed to making a positive impact both within and beyond our walls. Our members say they experience God through meaningful and relevant worship, through beautiful music in the sanctuary, through ministries like our food pantry and thrift shop, through children and youth programs, and through moments of deep care and personal connection during times of joy, challenge, and loss. We also value the opportunity to grow in faith, ask questions, and share our gifts. We are excited to welcome new leadership through the UCC Succession Transition Model and step forward into the next chapter of our shared ministry.
 
Date Posted 07/21/2026
 
Status: Active
Who To Contact
Name: REV. JACKIE LINGELBACH
Title: Ministries Coordinator
Phone: 802-505-0186
Email: jlingelbach@vermontucc.org
What to Know
Conference: VERMONT CONFERENCE UCC
Association: Champlain
Typical Search Process in our Conference: Profiles are downloadable. Ministerial Profile is sent at candidates request.

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