Transition at Church of the Highlands as Chris Hodges Steps Down

News Summary

Chris Hodges, founding pastor of the Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, has announced his transition to focus on Highlands College after over 20 years of leadership. Mark Pettus will step in as the new lead pastor, continuing Hodges’s legacy of empowering future leaders. This change comes amid the church’s significant growth, now reaching approximately 60,000 members across multiple campuses. As Hodges dedicates more of his time to the college, he assures the congregation he will remain involved in church activities, fostering a sense of community amid challenges.

Birmingham, Alabama – A New Chapter Begins at Church of the Highlands

Big news is sweeping through Birmingham as Chris Hodges, the founding pastor of the renowned Church of the Highlands, revealed on February 2, 2025, that he is stepping down from his role as the lead pastor. This is a significant moment for the church community, especially since Hodges started the church with just 400 attendees on February 4, 2001. Fast forward to now, and the congregation has exploded to around 60,000 members across 25 campuses in Alabama and Georgia!

A Long-Thought-Out Transition

The news may come as a surprise to some, but it has been in the works for over two years. This thoughtful transition will see Mark Pettus, who has dedicated over 20 years of his life to the church, stepping into the role of new lead pastor. It’s clear that this transition has the full support of the church’s staff elders and leadership, highlighting the seamless nature of this shift.

What’s the reason behind this major life change? Well, Hodges is redirecting his focus toward Highlands College, a thriving institution he founded back in 2011. As Chancellor, he’ll be dedicating more of his time—a whopping 80% of it—to the college, leaving 20% for church-related matters. While some might think stepping back means retirement, nothing could be further from the truth. Hodges has emphasized that he feels more energetic and visionary than ever!

Chris Hodges: Not Going Anywhere

25th Easter celebration. The congregation can take comfort in knowing their beloved founder will remain present, just not in the same capacity as before.

Empowering Future Leaders

Both Hodges and Pettus share a strong vision of empowering future church leaders, making this transition even more significant. Under Pettus’s guidance, Highlands College has grown and flourished, making him a fitting successor to carry on Hodges’s legacy. This marks a new phase not just for the church, but for how leaders are nurtured in the community.

Church Growth and Community Impact

Over the years, Church of the Highlands has become a pillar of the Birmingham community, offering not just spiritual guidance but practical services. Their commitment to reaching beyond just Sundays is evident with live-streamed church services to state prisons, ensuring that their message is accessible to everyone.

Facing Challenges Together

The Future Looks Bright

As the church community prepares for this new chapter, one thing is certain: Birmingham’s beloved church is not going anywhere; just evolving into something wonderfully new.

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Additional Resources

• AL.com: Why Church of the Highlands Pastor Chris Hodges Left the Top Job
• Christian Post: Church of the Highlands Pastor Chris Hodges Steps Down
• Julie Roys: Founding Pastor Chris Hodges Abruptly Steps Down
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Megachurch
• Google Search: Chris Hodges Church of the Highlands