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Sundays for adults and ethical education for children from preschool through high school. Our programs are non-theistic and involve no prayer or traditional religious rituals. Our membership of over 300 adults
includes people of varied backgrounds, faiths and beliefs, many of whom self-identify as agnostic or atheist. We are united in our belief in the capacity of human beings to work together to create a better world, committed to social justice, environmental stewardship, and democratic ideals. We are an intergenerational community, providing education, inspiration, social and social action opportunities, support and friendship for people of all ages.
What is a Leader:
A Leader of an Ethical Society, comparable to a minister or a rabbi, serves as the public face, philosophical voice and ethical guide of the congregation. The Leader provides inspiration and education
via regular addresses to the membership (Platforms, 9:45 Forums) on topics of ethical and philosophical import. The Leader provides pastoral care on both a community level (nurturing a welcoming, inclusive and relational culture) and an individual level (assisting in life passages, counseling and crisis support). The Leader works in partnership with a professional staff team, the Board of Trustees, and an engaged membership, to uphold and advance the Ethical Society’s mission and values, while fostering belonging, growth and ethical action.
Opportunity:
• Full-time settled contractual position, start date negotiable, June to September 2026
• Salary range from $90,000 to $115,000 (includes housing allowance), based on relevant experience and education
• Generous benefits, including medical and other insurance, self-employment offset tax, retirement contribution
Core Responsibilities Include:
Inspirational and Philosophical Leadership
● Regularly deliver original and inspirational Sunday addresses (Platform) and community discussions (9:45 Forum) rooted in ethics, humanism, philosophy and other topics relevant to Ethical Culture
● Model the core values of the Ethical Society by holding oneself to high standards of ethical conduct
● Be sincerely and enthusiastically involved in the life of the Ethical Society Pastoral Presence and Care
● Nurture a welcoming, inclusive and relational community culture
● Help to build and grow the community, fostering belonging and encouraging participation
● Provide conflict mediation and resolution, when appropriate
● Provide pastoral care and counseling to members across the life cycle (illnesses, transitions, crises)
● Officiate at weddings, memorials, special life passages, seasonal celebrations and other rituals Organizational Collaboration
● Serve as a Ministry Team Leader, partnering with professional staff to ensure integrity with mission and effective and responsible Society operations
● Be engaged in and supportive of efforts to grow the membership and to promote fiscal health and responsibility
● Collaborate with the Board of Trustees and member stakeholders to uphold good governance and strategic planning
Outreach
● Represent the Ethical Society of St. Louis in local and national forums, in the media, and in
interfaith collaborations and advocacy work
● Develop and engage in outreach strategies, including social action, for involvement and exposure in the wider local, national and international community
Qualifications:
• Humanist worldview (must be willing to be certified by the AEU or other appropriate body)
• Excellent communication skills, including public speaking and writing
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
• Passion for leading in community, with three years of congregational leadership experience strongly preferred
• Training and/or experience in providing pastoral care
• Emotional integrity
• Welcoming and accessible presence
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should send the following to leadersearch@ethicalstl.org:
• Letter of interest
• Resume
• Writing sample (essay) that could be developed into a Sunday platform address
• Links to video presentations (if available)
• Contact information for three to five references
Must agree to a background check. Applications will be evaluated as they are received. To be guaranteed consideration, please apply no later than February 28, 2026. The search will remain open until the position is filled or the need changes.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or age.
For more information about the job, the Society, and the St. Louis region, go to www.ethicalstl.org/leader-search-2026/

To learn more, tcuuc.org, 772-223-5020, info@tcuuc.org

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