Dear Grace Chapel Family,
We want to update you on our progress toward beginning the search process for our next Senior Pastor.
Search Committee Formation A few weeks ago, we opened nominations from our congregation and staff for potential Senior Pastor Search Committee members. We were overwhelmed by the response—over 150 nominations from across all campuses! Each nominee demonstrates a heart for the Lord and Grace Chapel, bringing valuable skills, experience, and representing our diverse congregation.
The Board is currently reviewing these nominations and will finalize the committee for Board approval in the coming weeks. Once we decide to begin the search, we'll have a strong team ready to serve. Formal invitations will be sent to selected committee members at that time.
Search Timing and VitalChurch Ministries Recommendations Many have asked about the timing of our search in relation to the VitalChurch Ministries (VCM) recommendations. VCM provided seven recommendations and we've formed seven teams of congregants, staff, and elders to address each one.
Should we wait for progress on all seven recommendations before starting the search? Given that a Senior Pastor search typically takes six to twelve months, the Board believes we can pursue both efforts simultaneously. We expect most VCM committee work to be completed by the time we name our next Senior Pastor.
Next Steps Pending the Board's decision to begin the search, we hope to have the final search committee formed in October—perfectly timed with our church-wide Season of Prayer.
Prayer Requests Please continue praying for:
- The formation of our Senior Pastor search committee
- God's guidance in assembling His chosen team
- Unity and collaboration as the committee begins this important work
Thank you for your continued prayers and support as we move forward together!
On behalf of the Board of Elders,
Victor Gerdes
Board Chair
