You’re reading this because you want to spread God’s Word throughout Nebraska. And your peers will listen. A whopping 75 percent of Nebraskans identify as Christians – a healthy mix of Protestants, Catholics, and other nondenominational believers.
It’s encouraging to see that so many people see value in what the church delivers. Unfortunately, many Nebraskans still stray from a righteous life. In 2019, the FBI reported 5,821 violent crimes in the Cornhusker State. That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Methamphetamines have razed Nebraskans for the past decade. A report from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln found methamphetamine treatment admissions increased more than 200 percent between 2008 and 2018.
Maybe you see it in your own community: The subdued anger, frantic addiction, and pervasive feeling of loss. And that’s what’s drawn you to the church. You recognize that it can be a beacon of salvation for those suffering in any capacity. There’s an opportunity to make a significant positive impact on your community.
Explore a Christian Ministry Degree – Request More Info Today!
Becoming a pastor in Nebraska isn’t going to happen overnight, and that’s a good thing. Your journey will take you from academia to possibly faraway lands, using the Bible as your source of salvation for those in need of it. What’s the first step on that journey?
The steps in this simple guide will show you exactly how to become a pastor in Nebraska.
Steps to Become a Pastor in Nebraska
Step 1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministry, Pastoral Studies or Other Similar Major in Nebraska
Think of a degree as the foundation of your career as a pastor or minister. You’re likely an avid worshipper, but does that mean you know the Bible inside and out? Can you read a lesson within its text and relate it to one of life’s many challenges? Furthermore, do you know how to run a church?
A degree will endow you with this knowledge. There’s an array of Christian-focused bachelor’s degrees you can pursue:
- Christian Leadership: This degree is very pertinent to those looking to lead Nebraskans out of violence and addiction. These programs combine in-depth theological study with training in business management, accounting, and (of course) leadership. That leadership manifests as you personally grow with the Christian faith, solidifying your mission to help others.
- Christian Studies: A bachelor’s in Christian studies is sort of an “everything-Christian” degree. It not only includes courses analyzing the teachings of the Bible, but also how Christianity has evolved over time. What’s the role of Christianity today on a national and global level? How can students better communicate the word of God to connect with a community in need?
- Pastoral Ministries: This degree is designed for the student who intends to become a minister. They set you up to become a church leader. You’ll study the Bible, missiology (the practice of conducting Christian missions), Evangelism, and providing pastoral care to your flock. It’s a program that’s well suited for the leaders and communicators of the world.
- Biblical Studies: Want to know everything there is to know about the Bible and its teachings? If this is where your passion lies, look no further. A degree in Biblical studies will empower you to analyze and teach the Bible, grasp key biblical concepts, and apply the Scripture to your ministry and life.
One thing you also want to keep in mind is the religious make-up of Nebraskans. According to a survey from Pew Research, 24 percent of adults in the state identify as Mainline Protestant – Methodists and Lutherans being the most popular of the bunch. In addition, 23 percent subscribe to the Catholic faith.
Given these affiliations, degrees which focus on general, rather than specialized Christian studies are preferable. A B.S. in pastoral ministries, Christian ministry, and religious studies are solid choices as well. A degree in Biblical studies wouldn’t hurt, but it’s not as essential as it is for those pursuing an Evangelical route.
Step 2. Look for Ministry Jobs and Gain Experience Serving the People and Churches of Nebraska
Like we mentioned earlier, you won’t become a pastor overnight. As is the case in other careers, you’ll have to start in an entry-level or mid-level position. Some may be focused exclusively on religious services, while others will center on the day-to-day operations of the church.
But what religious-focused jobs are there?
- Youth Pastor: If you’ve always worked well with kids, then this is a good place to stop. You’ll educate teenagers and children on the tenants of Christianity. Youth pastors connect them with volunteer work and community outreach initiatives, as well as provide lessons in the Bible.
- Worship Pastor: This is more of a part-time gig, usually occurring during times of active worship. You’ll work with the lead pastor to develop worship programs that are relevant to the community at large. What challenges are the community facing? What lessons could be gleaned from the Bible to navigate those trials?
- Charity Officer: These positions aren’t always found in a church, though some larger congregations may have them. Charity officers are in charge of raising money for religious non-profits. It’s a great option for those with a distinct desire to help others. It will also familiarize yourself with accounting and financial management principles every pastor needs to understand.
Explore Ministry Jobs with One of Nebraska's Many Churches
The megachurches across Nebraska are likely to have more job openings than the smaller congregations across the state. In addition to positions focused on spreading the Good Word, there are administrative and operations-focused jobs that can help you get your foot in the door. The megachurches in Nebraska include:
- Bellevue Christian Center
- Christ Community Church
- College View Church of Seventh-day Adventists
- King of Kings Lutheran Church
- Lifegate Church
- Lincoln Berean Church
- Westside Church
Salary Expectations for Church Ministry Jobs in Nebraska
While data specific to Nebraska isn’t available, religious workers make an average $40,070 per year nationwide. Those in the top 25 percent report earning upwards of $48,430 annually, and individuals in the top 10 percent earn at least $65,830 per year.
Keep in mind that what you actually make will depend on your experience and education. If you have your degree, you’ll have a leg up over religious workers who only have a high school education. Pastors looking to hire will also account for any volunteer or mission work you’ve done in the past, so be sure to include that in your resume.
Step 3. Earn a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Similar Graduate Degree in Nebraska and Establish Your Role in Christian Leadership
After working in an entry- or mid-level role, you may have designs to take more responsibility as a pastor. When you decide to take this leap is up to you, but when you do it, you should consider pursuing a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or similar graduate degree.
An MDiv is often a prerequisite to obtaining ordination as a Christian minister. Such programs are comprehensive, and includes mission work as part of the curriculum. The programs may be completed in as little as three years, or as many as six. The course of study will include:
- Classes which challenge your ability to interpret the New and Old Testaments, as well as your ability to evangelize its lessons.
- A residency with a church. The length of the residency depends on the university’s requirements. Residencies typically take one to three years to complete.
- Language courses on Biblical Hebrew and Greek.
- General theological studies as they pertain to the Christian faith.
An MDiv isn't your only option if you're looking to get ordained. A Master of Theology degree is well suited to those pursuing careers in the ministry. Most programs are broken up into two stages:
- Biblical Studies: This phase provides in-depth analysis of the Bible. It isn't dissimilar to the approach of an MDiv program. You'll examine prophetic literature, the letters within the New Testament, and their applications in today's congregations.
- Pastoral Leadership: Spreading the Good Word and connecting with your congregation is the foundation of pastoral leadership. You'll learn the tenants of worship, the practice of evangelism, and, most importantly, how to provide pastoral care to your congregants.
Salary Expectations for Pastor Jobs in Nebraska
After obtaining your ordination, what can you expect to make as a pastor within the Nebraska? On average, a member of the clergy in Nebraska makes $48,270 annually. A respectable living even in Omaha or Lincoln. Stick with your congregation, and you’ll make more over time. The top 25 percent reported earning $56,850 or more annually, while the top 10 percent pulled in upwards of $66,320.
Depending on your position within the church, you may identify as a “Director of Religious Services.” These folks make an average $59,550 annually. The cream of the crop in this state edge toward six figures, grossing upwards of $92,070 per year.
Step 4. Consider Forming a Christian Ministry of Your Own in Nebraska
Whilst working as a pastor, you will find an array of communities. Some have a strong foundation in faith, capable of pulling themselves out of the hardest times. Others are completely devoid of faithful beacon. You may decide to become that beacon.
Opening up your own church is an exciting, but resource-intensive process. You’ll quickly realize that hiring a lawyer and a tax advisor will get the process moving. It’s not as simple as buying a building and opening the doors to the public. Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your church off the ground.
Form Your Nebraska Non-Profit Corporation
First, file your church with the Nebraska Secretary of State as a non-profit. Doing so requires you to form a board of directors and file articles of incorporation.
When you establish a board of directors, you’re setting the structure of your church as a charitable organization. The board ensures that the church is using its funds for charitable work, protecting its tax treatment down the road. Think of the directors as a check against any dishonest activity.
In the process of selecting directors, your church will set rules, missions, and policies. These can be as varied as:
- Setting the mission: How will you serve the community through charitable donations?
- Forming committees for increasing membership.
- Protections of church members from any liabilities in the event of litigious or financial problems.
This step usually necessitates advice from a corporate attorney. Sure, you’re not forming a for-profit business, but these counselors have a lot of experience developing boards and filing articles of incorporation.
Speaking of which, filing your articles of incorporation is relatively easy. The articles must be submitted to the Secretary of State online. The articles of incorporation are a set of documents providing your church’s name, address, and other such details.
One thing to note with Nebraska: You must confirm that the name of your church is not similar to another congregation. You can check that the name of your church is available by submitting it in writing to the Secretary of State’s Office by mail, email, or fax. The office will respond with a written confirmation of the name’s availability.
Obtain a Nebraska Exempt Organization Certificate of Exemption
A Nebraska Exempt Organization Certificate of Exemption releases your church from any obligation to pay Nebraska’s sales or use tax. You can obtain this certificate through the Nebraska Department of Revenue. The key is meeting the criteria of an organization created “exclusively for religious purposes.” Here’s what they are:
- You must demonstrate that the church is organized and operated exclusively for religious purposes.
- The church cannot use its net earnings for private gain or benefit unless that use fulfills a religious or charitable purpose.
- You must describe “in sufficient detail” how your church’s operations are using its funds exclusively for charitable work and for religious purposes.
Specific features of the church are important to disclose in this case. The Department of Revenue will look at your formal code of doctrine, the history of your religion, the pastors ministering to your congregation, and other such details.
Obtain a 501(c)(3) Status from the Internal Revenue Service
The next step is to obtain a 501(c)(3) status from the IRS. Before you do so, you need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The EIN allows you to submit tax forms and open up a post office box.
Once you have the EIN, you’ll need to fill out Form 1023. Form 1023 is a complicated document. It’d serve you well to have a tax advisor assist you through the process. Keep in mind that you need to file the form with the IRS within 27 months of submitting your articles of incorporation to Nebraska’s Secretary of State Office.
Insure the Church and Its Property
You’ll have a building, and possibly vehicles. You’ll acquire whatever assets you need to spread the Good Word. Obtain insurance to protect all of that. This will include property insurance, worker’s compensation, employer liability coverage, and general liability coverage.
This may seem like a petty step, but it’s an important one. If someone’s injured on your property, they may use it to pursue action in civil court. That’s where the liability coverage will come into play. It will ensure your church won’t go bankrupt while conducting charitable work.
From there, what you do with your church is your decision alone. Nebraska needs you. Tackling the methamphetamine crisis and violent crime is no easy task, but with God on your side, anything is possible.
2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job market trends for Religious Workers, Church Directors, and Clergy based on state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2022.
Christian Colleges in Nebraska
Creighton University College of Arts and Sciences, Theology Department
BA in Theology (campus)
- Biblical Studies Specialization
- Doctrinal, Historical or Liturgical Theology Specialization
- Christian Life Studies Specialization
Midland University Luther College of Arts and Sciences
Major in Religion Philosophy (campus)
Major in Youth and Family Ministry (campus)
York College
BA in Biblical Studies (campus)
- Biblical Studies
- Religious Studies
- Youth Ministry and Religious Education
