(To read/open a link to a page while keeping this page open to come back to, right click on the link and chose "Open in a new tab")

Who will be our next Pastor?

We don’t know yet; but we’re actively starting the process to discover who God is calling here.  While we don’t have a name yet, we do know he will (1) be called by God to East Hills, (2) fit the culture of East Hills and who we are, and (3) be able to lead the church and it’s leadership.

What do you mean by the culture of East Hills?

The culture of East Hills is simply who we are.  When you describe East Hills to other people, you are probably talking about its culture, even though you may never have thought of it that way.  Every church is called to make disciples; but each church has its own personality, if you will.  To learn who East Hills is, take time to look over the links under the “About Us” section on our web to discover Who We Are, What We Believe, and our Value Statements.

Isn't Pastor John going to take over?

Pastor John will continue to serve as our Associate Pastor.  After he and the Elder team prayed, discussed and prayed some more, it was decided that God was not calling Pastor John to be the Senior Pastor at this time.

What will we do until a new pastor is called?

We will continue to do what East Hills does best.  We will worship, fellowship, and study the Word.  We will have life groups and family events and Sunday services, just as we have always done.  Pastor John will be our pastor through the transition, doing both the job of Senior Pastor and Associate Pastor.  The elders, deacons, and staff will also continue to play a critical role in keeping East Hills strong and healthy.  Things will continue to function pretty much the same as they have been.

How long will it take to get a new pastor?

We don’t know, but we’re trusting in God’s timing.  The average search for a new pastor is six months to a year.  We want a pastor soon; but we want to make sure we do it right (“due diligence” is one of our mantras).  It’s nice that we have already started the process and our pastor hasn’t left yet so in some ways we are ahead.

Can my friend/relative apply for the position?

Anyone can apply for the position, but they must meet all or most of the qualifications in order to move forward in the process.  We recommend that anyone interested in the position go to our page on Applying and read things over before praying and deciding whether to apply.

What are the qualifications?

Please visit our page on Applying.

Why is Pastor Craig leaving?

Pastor Craig is answering God’s call to begin a new ministry in Colorado called Shiloh Ranch “serving those who serve.”  The ministry is designed to support pastors, missionaries, and their families who need encouragement, may be feeling  burned out, tired, or are in need of restoration.

When is Pastor Craig leaving?

November 13th is his last Sunday at East Hills, giving him and his family time to get settled into his new home for the holidays.

Who is on the Pastoral Search Team?

Alphabetically listed they are:  Christine Castro, Diane Dieckmeyer, Elva Johnson, Jeff Kurtz, Chai Pungaew, and, Pastor John Stewart.  A picture of the team (to be posted on 9/20/11) and more complete information can be found on our page Team Members.

Will we know everything the Pastoral Search Team is doing?

Yes and no.  In a broad way you will know everything the Search Team is doing through monthly reports in church (Sunday mornings) and through the web site (specifically through our page Process.  However, specific details will be held confidential by the Search Team.  This means no one will be told who has applied, who is at what stage in the process, or what information has been collected / discovered.  This is done to protect the process and the individuals who are in the process.

How can I track the progress of the Search Team?

Please visit our page on Process.

What can the East Hills body do to help with the search process?

Please pray for us. Pray for our church unity through the search and securing of a Lead Pastor and pray for the Pastoral Search Team for continued wisdom and discernment from God to lead the way to finding the candidate that He has chosen to lead the East Hills Church family. For more information please visit our page Prayer Requests.