Pastor Acceptance Letter

In many denominations, a committee is responsible for choosing the pastor of a particular congregation. It is customary for the individual who is chosen to write a pastor acceptance letter to that group confirming this nomination.

Format and Content

Unlike other job acceptance letters, apastor acceptance letter format is religious in nature. It may spell out certain tenants of faith that the new pastor agrees to adhere to as a condition of holding this sacred position. This letter could even mention certain scripture verses or talk about the pastor’s calling to the ministry by a higher power. The closing could also be a reflection of faith, and contain phrases such as “yours in Christ”, or “in His ministry.”

Sample

Reverend William Knight is writing this pastor acceptance letter sample to Steve Drake, the head of the nominating committee of Christ the Lord Church in San Diego, CA. Reverend Knight was chosen by this committee to be the congregation’s new pastor, and he is humbly accepting their offer. In writing this letter, Reverend Knight would like to let the members of the team know a little bit more about him, so a brief testimony of his faith is also included.

Dear Mr. Drake,

I am honored to accept your committee’s nomination to the role of pastor for Christ the Lord Church. After much prayer and consideration, I believe this decision is one that the Lord has ordained for me, and I am humbled to be chosen to serve your congregation in this manner.

Before I take on this role as your pastor, I think it is important that you know a little bit about my personal relationship with Jesus. I began my walk with Christ back in 2004 after suffering from a serious automobile accident that left me severely injured. At that time, I did not know if I would ever be able to walk again, and was desperate for physical and emotional healing. I asked Jesus into my heart, and my life has truly never been the same.

I married my wife Rebecca in June 2007, and she shares the same love of Christ that I do. We are expecting our first child in April, and plan to raise him according to Proverbs 22:6, which says we are to train up a child in the way he is to go so that when he is old, he will not depart from it. As such, Rebecca looks forward to helping other young mothers who are struggling to train their children in the way of the Lord as well, and plans to become heavily involved in children’s ministry here at the church.

Our first Sunday with you will be on November 3, 2013. At that time, I will begin a six-week sermon series from the book of Revelation concerning the end times. I am looking forward to meeting lots of new people, and also look forward to serving the Lord together for many years to come.

In His Service,

William Knight

Reverend William Knight