Transition Plan
Dear Christ Church Family,
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been greatly encouraged by your response to the Colson’s announcement that they will be transitioning to Atlanta, GA. What could have been a time of discord and division in our congregation has been a time of thanksgiving and gratitude. God has looked on Christ Church with favor, and we pray he will continue to do so into the future.
Thank you for your patience as we’ve worked to establish a transition plan for Christ Church. Our Session convened last night to finalize plans in three important areas: (1) celebrating the Colson’s as they depart, (2) securing interim pastoral support, and (3) defining the pastoral search process.
Colson Celebration
Chuck will conclude his time as our Senior Pastor on November 16 with his final sermon. Following the service, we invite our entire congregation to gather for lunch to celebrate the Colson’s and to give thanks for their ministry among us. If you would like to express your gratitude in writing, there will be a basket to collect notes. Please join us in giving thanks for Chuck and Melissa’s ministry to Christ Church for the last eleven and a half years.
Interim Pastoral Support
During the transition, Rev. Mike Malone has graciously agreed to provide interim pastoral support to our congregation. Many of you are familiar with Mike as he has preached at Christ Church in the past and mentored Chuck for many years. Mike is a retired PCA minister, having served multiple churches in Tennessee and Florida. He brings a wealth of experience and wisdom. Mike will preach twice per month and be available to the congregation for pastoral care throughout the week. We look forward to his ministry among us!
Pastoral Search Process
In order to navigate the pastoral search process, we have contracted with McGowan Global Institute (MGI) to assist our Session and future Pastoral Search Committee (PSC). MGI is a nationally recognized nonprofit that assists churches in pastoral transitions. Through their four-phase process, MGI provides customized support via a designated consultant. Many churches in our denomination have utilized MGI with great success, significantly reducing the average time of transition.
On November 23, 2025, we will hold a congregational meeting at 9.30a to dissolve Chuck’s pastoral call, discuss the search process, and open nominations for a pastoral search committee. We anticipate a peaceful and fruitful process in consultation with MGI throughout this next season.
Please be in prayer for Christ Church, asking God to make his face to shine upon us as we entrust ourselves to his gracious promises, which are yes and amen in Jesus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to speak to our Associate Pastor, John Lawler, or to a member of the Session.
Grace and Peace,
The Session of Christ Church Presbyterian