Church of the Highlands Announces New Leadership to Enhance Community Impact

Church of the Highlands Announces Leadership Transition

The Church of the Highlands, a vibrant community church based in Birmingham, Alabama, is entering an exciting phase with a leadership change that aims to broaden its impact. Mark Pettus has been appointed as the new lead pastor, while Chris Hodges, the founding pastor, will shift his focus to leadership development and overseeing Highlands College. This transition is poised not only to enhance the church's mission but also to cultivate the next generation of leaders, ensuring the continuation of its core values and vision.

During a Sunday service, Chris Hodges shared his excitement for the changes, stating, "Mark is my spiritual son and a product of Highlands. I'm thrilled about where we're headed. I’m not retiring or stepping back; instead, I have more energy and vision than ever. This transition will let me work even harder to grow Highlands College and empower others for ministry." Currently, Highlands College, which Pettus has led since its inception in 2011, provides a solid education for those pursuing careers in ministry, offering seven accredited bachelor's degrees.

Mark Pettus, who joined the Highlands community over 20 years ago, expressed deep humility and gratitude for the opportunity to lead the church. His relationship with Chris Hodges has been foundational in his spiritual journey, having been mentored by Hodges since he started volunteering at the church. "Highlands is our home, and the core of our passion is the work of God taking place here," Pettus remarked. "Following in the footsteps of my mentor and pastor is a humbling experience, and I cannot wait to see how Chris's impact multiplies as he pours into more leaders at Highlands and across the globe. Together, we believe the best is yet to come."

The church plans to continue its efforts in community engagement and service. Pettus encouraged everyone, especially those who are without a church home, to get involved in the numerous opportunities available at Highlands, including Sunday services, small groups, and various activities designed for children and students.

This leadership transition comes at a time when the church's mission—to lead people to know God, find freedom, discover their purpose, and make a difference—is more pertinent than ever. With 26 campuses across Alabama and Georgia, the Church of the Highlands remains committed to fostering a welcoming environment that nurtures faith, community, and personal growth.

The Church of the Highlands aims not only to serve its congregation but also to inspire wider community involvement, illustrating its dedication to societal improvement. With Hodges's new role focusing on leadership development, the expectation is high for innovation and outreach initiatives that will further cement the church’s legacy in promoting spiritual growth and community service.

This change marks a significant moment for the Church of the Highlands community, illustrating both continuity and renewal as it progresses into its next chapter. As Mark Pettus steps into this pivotal role, the church looks forward to empowering a new generation of leaders, ensuring the ongoing success of their mission. Stay tuned for more information on upcoming events and programs that will further engage the community.

For more details about the Church of the Highlands and its initiatives, visit their official website.