In a move defying conventional norms, Chuck Swindoll, the venerable 89-year-old pastor of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, has declared he won’t be stepping down from the pulpit anytime soon, even as the church ushers in his successor.
The news broke this week as Stonebriar Church unveiled its transition plan: Swindoll will assume the role of founding pastor, continuing to deliver sermons on Sundays, while Jonathan Murphy, a dynamic preacher hailing from Belfast, steps into the position of senior pastor starting May 1.
“This is a very unique way of expanding, of ‘moving into another chapter,’ as we often call it here,” remarked Swindoll in a video shared alongside Murphy, who currently chairs pastoral ministries at Dallas Theological Seminary.
With a ministerial tenure spanning over six decades, Swindoll holds the title of the oldest megachurch pastor in the nation and stands as one of the most influential figures in evangelical circles. Firm in his commitment to remain active in ministry until his final breath, Swindoll once quipped at the age of 75, “What a way to die,” expressing his desire to preach until his last moment.
In his new capacity, Swindoll will continue as Stonebriar’s primary preacher, while Murphy assumes the day-to-day responsibilities of overseeing ministries and stepping in to preach as needed.
The transition has been years in the making, with Swindoll personally mentoring Murphy and the church’s elder board carefully considering him as a successor. Swindoll will retain his role as an elder, while Murphy will join the elder board and, in due course, become the church’s primary preacher.
The move echoes a growing trend in pastoral succession planning, as highlighted by megachurch researcher Warren Bird. Bird emphasizes the importance of intentional overlap between outgoing and incoming pastors, providing a safety net for the congregation and facilitating a smooth transition.
Despite health challenges in recent years, including a fall and medical procedures, Swindoll remains resolute in his dedication to ministry. As he approaches his 90th birthday, his passion for preaching and serving the congregation remains undiminished.
Chuck Swindoll’s legacy at Stonebriar Community Church, from its humble beginnings to its status as a thriving megachurch, stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to proclaiming the gospel. And as he continues to inspire both pastors and congregants alike, Swindoll’s words ring true: retirement from earthly labor may come, but the call to live for God never ceases.