News Summary
The Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, Alabama, announced a leadership transition as founding pastor Chris Hodges steps down after a remarkable 24 years. Mark Pettus will take over as senior pastor, while Hodges continues as chancellor of Highlands College. This change aligns with the church’s 24th anniversary, emphasizing the importance of leadership development in the coming generation.
Exciting Leadership Transition at Church of the Highlands!
Birmingham, Alabama – Big news is on the horizon for the Church of the Highlands as its founding pastor, Chris Hodges, announced on February 2, 2025, that he is stepping down from his role as senior pastor after an incredible 24-year journey at the helm of one of the largest religious congregations in the nation. Hodges isn’t going anywhere, though! He will continue to serve as chancellor of Highlands College, a school he also founded, essentially reshaping the future of church leadership.
From Humble Beginnings to Mega-Church Dominance
The Church of the Highlands, which began its remarkable journey in 2001 meeting in the auditorium of Mountain Brook High School, has grown exceptionally. Now, with over 20 branch locations scattered throughout Alabama and two in Georgia, it proudly boasts a combined weekly attendance exceeding 50,000 at all campuses! It’s safe to say that this church has become a cornerstone of the community.
Welcome, Mark Pettus!
Taking over the mantle as the new senior pastor is Mark Pettus. Having joined the Church of the Highlands staff back in 2006, Pettus has a rich history with the church. He pioneered the MOTION Conference aimed at empowering students, and when Highlands College opened in 2011, he took on the role of president, leading the charge to gain accreditation. His prior experience assures many in the congregation that the church is in capable hands.
A Shift in Leadership and Vision
Hodges firmly believes that the church is ready for leadership from a younger generation, and he has complete faith in Pettus’s ability to take the helm. During his announcement, Hodges expressed joy and pride in the direction the church is headed under Pettus’s guidance. The decision to transition leadership has thoughtfully aligned with the approaching 24th anniversary of the Church of the Highlands, originally founded on February 4, 2001.
A Bright Future Ahead
Do not mistake this for retirement – Hodges simply plans to refocus his efforts, dedicating around 80% of his time to Highlands College and the remaining 20% to church matters. This shift demonstrates his commitment not just to the church but to the future leaders being cultivated at the college.
Pettus, with sincere gratitude, shared admiration for Hodges, acknowledging him as an amazing pastor and mentor. Their bond is not just professional but deeply personal, as Hodges has referred to Pettus as a “spiritual son.” That degree of connection indicates a seamless transition that may excite and reassure members of the congregation.
Emphasis on Leadership Development
The transition is not just a change in personnel but a potent reminder of the importance of leadership in today’s church landscape. With Hodges stepping back from the spotlight, the primary focus will be on fostering and empowering the next generation of leaders through Highlands College.
Conclusion
So, as the Church of the Highlands moves forward into this new era of leadership, the excitement is palpable. With Mark Pettus taking the reins and Chris Hodges continuing to guide from the sidelines, both the college and church stand poised for greatness. It’s a time for celebration, reflection, and a shared vision for a vibrant future, echoing the sentiment that faith continues to inspire growth, community, and opportunity!
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Founding pastor Chris Hodges steps down
- CBS 42: Church of the Highlands founder to switch focus
- Vestavia Voice: Church of the Highlands announces leadership change
- 1819 News: Chris Hodges steps down to oversee Highlands College
- Google Search: Church of the Highlands Chris Hodges news
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
