Who we’re looking for
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Batesville is seeking a full-time rector who is holistically present, engaging, and welcoming to all. We desire a leader who will guide us in deepening our faith, supporting our members, invigorating our outreach ministries, and maintaining our commitment to being faithful stewards of our resources. The ideal candidate will inspire and energize our liturgical practices, attract new members, foster a sense of community, and be actively involved in both the church and the wider community.
About us
St. Paul’s is a vibrant and welcoming community dedicated to living out the teachings of Jesus Christ.
We are deeply involved in community outreach, offering a weekly community meal, and active Episcopal Church Women and Churchmen’s groups supporting community programs and hosting member meals and celebrations. St. Paul’s Care Team supports us as individuals and families, providing personal visitation, and meeting tangible and spiritual needs. Teams support community events such as Batesville Pride, festive events such as the Halloween parade downtown, and new member events. We are known for our strong lay leadership and our commitment to inclusivity and service. We offer a variety of worship services, including daily Morning Prayer, midweek and Sunday Holy Eucharists, and Christian Education for all ages.
Where we are
St Paul’s was consecrated in 1873 and is located downtown in Batesville, Arkansas. The church is a prominent feature of Main Street, offering a place of worship and community gatherings. Our historic building, designed by renowned Arkansas architect Charles L. Thompson, has been a cornerstone of the community since its construction in 1916. Main Street offers an eclectic mix of historic charm and modern attractions including restaurants, an art gallery, a community theater and easy access to Poke Bayou that winds through Batesville and flows into the White River.
About Batesville and Independence County
Batesville is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant community spirit. As the county seat of Independence County, Batesville serves as a regional medical, manufacturing, legal and distribution hub. The city offers a variety of recreational activities, from outdoor adventures in the Ozark Mountains and rock climbing at Jamestown Crag, to fishing and boating on the White River. Batesville and Independence County boast strong public schools and are committed to technology integration, and a well-rounded education. Batesville is home to esteemed educational institutions like Lyon College and the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB). The community hosts several annual events, including the Arkansas Scottish Festival hosted by Lyon on the college campus, and the White River Wonderland winter festival where the 35-acre Riverside Park glows with millions of dazzling lights. White River Health provides advanced healthcare in North Central Arkansas through inpatient and outpatient services as well as community outreach ensuring a high quality of life for its residents.
In Summary
We warmly invite you to consider St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Batesville. Our vibrant and welcoming community is eager to embrace a leader who embodies presence, engagement, and a welcoming spirit.
If you are passionate about deepening faith, inspiring worship, and fostering meaningful outreach, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our mission to serve and grow together.
Application Process
Applications will be accepted until November 25, 2024. For more information and to apply, please contact the Rev. Canon Jason Alexander at the diocesan office via email at jalexander@episcopalarkansas.org or by phone at 501-372-2168.
