There was a time—not that long ago—when sending a resume meant printing it on fine paper, sliding it into a crisp envelope, and praying over it at the post office before it made its way into the hands of a search committee. In those days, a good resume was accompanied by a handwritten note or a recording of a recent sermon.
Today, things have changed. Most churches review resumes digitally, scroll through mobile devices, and want clickable links to sermons and social media. But while the tools have evolved, the goal remains the same: connecting Spirit-called leaders with biblically faithful churches. At the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association, we count it a joy to serve churches of all shapes and sizes—urban, suburban, rural, and exurban—across central Alabama. Some of our congregations worship in English, others in Spanish or Korean. Some are modern, others traditional. But all have this in common: they desire faithful, godly leadership rooted in Scripture and shaped by the Great Commission.
When someone sends us a resume, we do our best to help them. But we always encourage churches to take seriously their responsibility to do their own due diligence. That means checking references, conducting background checks, and seeking the Lord’s discernment every step of the way. A resume may open the door, but wise evaluation keeps both the church and the candidate safe and effective.
If you’re preparing to submit a ministry resume, here are some simple ways to help us help you—and the churches we serve across our region.
Present Your Calling with Clarity
1. Send Your Resume as a PDF
PDF files preserve formatting, ensuring that your resume appears just as you intended on any device. A .docx file may look different on a phone than it does on a laptop. In today’s mobile world, a clean, consistent format makes a strong first impression.
2. Include a Thoughtful Photo
While not required, a professional, ministry-appropriate photo (of yourself or with your family) personalizes your resume. Churches often feel more connected when they can see the person behind the paperwork. A clear headshot fosters that connection.
3. Share Your Ministry Objectives
Tell us more than just your education and work history. What kind of ministry are you pursuing? What theological convictions guide you? What kind of church setting fits your gifts and sense of call? We serve a wide variety of churches in central Alabama—sharing your ministry vision helps us discern where your calling and a congregation’s needs might align.
4. Include Preaching or Teaching Samples
Churches often want to hear your voice—literally. Whether it's a sermon video, a Bible study lesson, or a worship set you led, share direct links that allow search teams to see and hear you in action. Even a smartphone video from a recent Sunday can be valuable.
5. Name Your File Clearly
It may seem like a small thing, but naming your file JohnSmith_2025.pdf (instead of resume.pdf) helps us quickly locate and share your information with church leaders. With dozens of résumés coming in, organization is a quiet but powerful gift. Be careful with naming your files with specific ministry roles or church names because you may send the wrong resume file to a church or create confusion.
Reflect God’s Work in Your Life
More than anything, we want your resume to reflect not just what you’ve done, but what God has done in and through you. As Paul told Timothy, “What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). Your resume is part of that gospel chain—connecting your story with the story God is writing in a local church.
To that end, we encourage you to attach a one-paragraph testimony about how you came to Christ and how you sensed your call to ministry. This provides crucial context that many churches appreciate.
Also, be honest and specific. Avoid vague statements like “Led youth ministry.” Instead, say something like “Mentored 12 students weekly and led a Gospel of Mark series that resulted in three baptisms.” Don’t exaggerate—but do tell the truth about God’s work in your life and leadership.
Triple-check for spelling, grammar, and formatting issues. Your resume may be the first (and sometimes only) introduction a church has to your ministry. Make sure it reflects the excellence and integrity of the One who called you.
Churches Should Treat Resumes with Care
From Ensley to Leeds, from downtown Birmingham to the hills of Blount County, our congregations reflect the beautiful diversity of our region. As you receive resumes and prayerfully evaluate candidates, we encourage you to go beyond what’s on the page. Ask for references. Run a background check. Speak with former colleagues. Invite the candidate to visit, teach, and spend time with your people. Look not just for a resume, but for character, calling, and chemistry.
A resume can only tell part of the story—but with prayer, wisdom, and care, you can find the shepherd God has prepared for your congregation.
We’re Here to Serve
At the BMBA, we are honored to serve both those who sense God’s call and the churches longing for faithful leadership. Whether your church seats 20 or 1,500, we believe you deserve a leader who teaches the Word, loves the flock, and lives a life shaped by the gospel.
If you’re ready to send a resume, or if your church is beginning a search and would like help with candidates or consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to encourage, equip, and engage our churches in the work of the Great Commission.
With sincere gratitude,
Christopher (Chris) W. Crain, MBA, M.Div., D.Min.
Executive Director