Dear Journey Family –
It’s been eight weeks since our former lead pastor stepped down, and we want to thank you for walking with faith and grace through this season. We know change can be hard, but we’ve seen God’s hand of peace, strength, and unity in our church.
Journey Christian Church remains the solid spiritual institution it has been for decades. We are still the church where everyone is welcome, nobody is perfect, and through Jesus Christ, anything is possible.
As we read in Matthew 9:36, “When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them.” We believe Jesus still sees us and He is still leading this church with compassion and purpose.
We are deeply thankful for Pastor Harvey and the leadership he is providing as our lead pastor in this season. His wisdom, humility, and heart for God’s people have been evident. We believe in him and are grateful for his leadership.
It’s been eight weeks since our former lead pastor stepped down, and we want to thank you for walking with faith and grace through this season. We know change can be hard, but we’ve seen God’s hand of peace, strength, and unity in our church.
Journey Christian Church remains the solid spiritual institution it has been for decades. We are still the church where everyone is welcome, nobody is perfect, and through Jesus Christ, anything is possible.
As we read in Matthew 9:36, “When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them.” We believe Jesus still sees us and He is still leading this church with compassion and purpose.
We are deeply thankful for Pastor Harvey and the leadership he is providing as our lead pastor in this season. His wisdom, humility, and heart for God’s people have been evident. We believe in him and are grateful for his leadership.
At the same time, we want you to know that we are walking through a thoughtful and prayerful pastoral search. We’re doing this with care and accountability, and Pastor Harvey is a valued and trusted candidate in that process.
We are not standing still. The staff is strong, ministry is growing, and people are meeting Jesus. We are moving forward in faith, asking God for wisdom and trusting Him to provide exactly what we need.
So stay encouraged. Stay involved. Stay expectant. This is a good season for our church. The same God who has been faithful in the past is still faithful today.
Thank you for being part of this church family. We love you, and we are excited for all God has ahead.
-Journey Elder Leadership
We are not standing still. The staff is strong, ministry is growing, and people are meeting Jesus. We are moving forward in faith, asking God for wisdom and trusting Him to provide exactly what we need.
So stay encouraged. Stay involved. Stay expectant. This is a good season for our church. The same God who has been faithful in the past is still faithful today.
Thank you for being part of this church family. We love you, and we are excited for all God has ahead.
-Journey Elder Leadership
FAQs
Thank you for praying for our church during this season of transition. As elders, we want to keep you informed, invite your input, and ask for your continued prayer. Our desire is to move with wisdom, patience, and unity as we prepare for the next lead pastor God has for Journey Christian Church.
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions that we believe will provide some clarity on this season of transition.
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions that we believe will provide some clarity on this season of transition.
What happens with the Church during this time of transition?
During this time of transition, the mission and ministry of Journey continue. Our elders provide spiritual oversight, and our staff and volunteers lead day-to-day ministry with focus and faith. We are a healthy church, and God is moving. Lives are being changed, people are being baptized, and the Gospel is being shared. Journey is still Journey. We will keep gathering for worship, preaching God’s Word, serving our community, and making disciples.
Why does this take time?
We are asking God for the right pastor, not the fastest solution. Careful prayer, interviews, and references protect both the church and the candidate. Our initial focus was on ensuring that Pastor Harvey as our Interim Lead Pastor and Pastor Kevin as our Executive Pastor were supported to lead the staff and church through this season. We have great belief in Pastor Harvey and Pastor Kevin’s leadership for this season.
What are the key qualifications?
The elders have been praying and seeking the Lord’s wisdom regarding the qualifications for Journey’s next lead pastor, and while not exhaustive, the following represents key qualities we believe are necessary.
A clear call from God to serve the local church. A life that aligns with 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Solid doctrine. Proven leadership and preaching that is faithful to Scripture and helpful in building a person’s walk with Christ. Emotional maturity. A shepherd heart for people of all ages and backgrounds. A unifying leader who looks to empower and lead through Staff and the Pastors. A generous pastor with a heart for the local and global church (Missions).
A clear call from God to serve the local church. A life that aligns with 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Solid doctrine. Proven leadership and preaching that is faithful to Scripture and helpful in building a person’s walk with Christ. Emotional maturity. A shepherd heart for people of all ages and backgrounds. A unifying leader who looks to empower and lead through Staff and the Pastors. A generous pastor with a heart for the local and global church (Missions).
Is Pastor Harvey being considered?
Yes, Pastor Harvey possesses the qualities of a strong lead pastor. He comes with great experience as a gifted communicator and leader. He has a deep love for Journey and will be considered for this position.
How will the church family be involved?
We will provide updates as available, invite focused prayer, and share opportunities to meet a finalist at the right time.
What if I have concerns or feedback?
Please share them with the elders at elders@journeychristian.com. Your voice matters and will be received with care.
Who leads the church during the search?
Our elders provide spiritual oversight and our staff team leads day-to-day ministry. Ministry continues with focus and faith.