Dear Journey Family –
As Journey is in the midst of a season of transition, we wanted to take a few moments to bring you up-to-date on the latest on our search for the next Lead Pastor here at Journey, and more importantly, speak encouragement into this season.
As Journey is in the midst of a season of transition, we wanted to take a few moments to bring you up-to-date on the latest on our search for the next Lead Pastor here at Journey, and more importantly, speak encouragement into this season.
First, we want to thank you for how you have responded with grace, faith, and love during this season. We are greatly encouraged by how you have leaned into God’s Word, been actively serving through the church, and been so generous in contributing to our church’s mission. Each week, we continue to see lives being transformed in the name of Jesus.
As we continue to move forward as a church, we are so grateful for our staff and pastors who have been so committed to discipling, loving, and equipping each ministry area into their next step with Jesus. Journey continues to be a strong and unified church with Jesus being, at the center of it all.
Now for the update: we have formed a Search Committee to help us navigate the task of selecting our next leader here at Journey. This committee consists of 3 staff members, 5 congregants, and elders Keith Collier and Robin McCart. They will help us interview the candidates via virtual meetings. We value their questions and input about each candidate who gets to this interview stage.
At this point, we have several strong candidates who have taken the time to send their information to us. Our objective is to review the resumes and pre-Interview questionnaires as they come in. All members of our Elder Board are participating in this stage. Once we narrow down the candidates, they will move to the interview stage.
You might be wondering: "what is the timeline for finding a new Lead Pastor?" We don’t have a specific timeline, as we feel this decision is of the upmost importance to our church here at Journey. We will do our due diligence, and continue to inform you, the members of our church, throughout this process.
As shared in our last update, Pastor Harvey remains a strong candidate for the permanent Lead Pastor position and will be interviewed as a part of the search process. We thank him so much for guiding us during this time of transition as our “Acting Lead Pastor”. Beyond preaching on Sundays and leading our staff, he is also planning for 2026 during this time to make sure Journey’s ministry continues to grow and thrive.
We are greatly seeking God’s guidance and plan for our church, it’s leadership, it’s vision, and the people who will lead us into the future. So, we thank you, Church Family, for continuing to pray for the Lord to lead and guide us during this time.
May God continue to bless Journey Christian Church. Thank you.
-Journey Elder Leadership
elders@journeychristian.com
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 Acting 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.