Pastor Search Timeline Generator
Searching for a new pastor is one of the most important processes your church will ever undertake. This free tool helps you create a realistic timeline for your search, from forming the committee to extending the call.
Tell Us About Your Situation
How to Use This Timeline
This timeline is a general guide. Every search is different. Some churches find a pastor quickly. Others take longer. The key is to be thorough, prayerful, and patient.
Key Principles
- Pray first. Before you do anything else, commit the process to prayer.
- Be honest about your church. Present an accurate picture to candidates. Do not oversell or undersell.
- Be honest about your budget. Do not promise a salary you cannot deliver.
- Check references. Always call at least three references for your top candidate.
- Take your time. A bad hire is worse than a long search.
More Pastor Search Resources
- Pastor Search Committee Guide — Complete step-by-step guide
- Pastor Search Committee Toolkit — All templates and checklists
- Interim Pastor Handbook — For the transition season
- Church Bylaws Template — Ensure your governance is in order
This tool is provided free by MinistryPlace.net. Share it with your search committee.