When former Campus Pastor Tamara Shelton resigned last November, the search for someone to fill the position began quickly. This semester, the search has been put on pause by the President’s Cabinet.
“The Cabinet and I decided to put the search on hold until we have a better understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on in-person gatherings,” said President John Pistole. “Since we decided to suspend all large in-person chapels this semester, it seemed to make sense.”
Pistole added that if the pandemic continues into the near future without a vaccination, the search will reopen to look for someone specifically equipped in the areas of leading virtual worship and small group gatherings.
Dean of Students Chris Luekenga said that the general responsibilities of a campus pastor are being taken care of by himself and Director of Spiritual Formation Becca Palmer.
“I am handling chapel programming, speaker scheduling and operations,” Luekenga said. “Becca Palmer is handling the student leader and worship side, all of which would normally be managed by the campus pastor, along with other responsibilities.”