We are in a season for our church that we have not experienced in the past 35 years. It’s important to recognize how blessed we have been to have stable and godly leadership under Pastor Jeff for so many years. Even in the difficult season following his unexpected passing, I am deeply grateful for what God is doing in and through our church family. I am thankful to have been—and to continue to be—a part of the work God is doing to advance His Kingdom through our church.

I truly believe the promise found in Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” The good work God has begun in us—both individually and as a church—will continue until He completes it.

As you’ve likely heard in our weekend services, we are following the process outlined in our constitution to appoint a new Lead Pastor. Our Overseers—a group of four lead pastors who have provided spiritual oversight to Pastor Jeff and our church for many years—have recommended Pastor Josh Leake as a candidate. They completed a thorough interview process in accordance with our constitution.

That recommendation was then passed to our Transition Team, which consists of myself, two of our campus pastors, and three board members. After completing our own interview process, we are recommending Pastor Josh to the members of the church.

The final step in this process is a business meeting, where church members will vote on Pastor Josh to become our Lead Pastor. This meeting will be held on Sunday, May 17th at 6:00 PM, with in-person gatherings at all three campus locations. Childcare will be provided at the Hampton location only.

‍Because this is such a significant moment in the life of our church, I encourage you to attend if you are able. Anyone who attends Allison Park Church is welcome to be present, and we will also provide an option to stream the meeting online.

Voting, however, will take place in person and is limited to those who are recognized members, having completed the membership process as outlined in our constitution.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THIS VIDEO, which explains our membership process and how voting will take place.

We understand that some of you may be unsure of your membership status. Please use this link to confirm your status in our database prior to the meeting. If you have any questions after reviewing your status, feel free to contact us via form request HERE or call 724-826-6225 by

Applications for remote ballots have closed.  Those approved to vote remotely received communication with directions this week.  If you did not receive yours, please email memebrship@allisonparkchurch.com.   

Thank you for your continued commitment to Allison Park Church and to the Kingdom of God. I am grateful for our church family and believe God will continue to work through us and bring to completion all that He has begun.

Pastor Joe Schafer
Interim Lead Pastor