It is an end of an era for this church
Renowned Evangelical figure Chuck Swindoll is transitioning from his role as senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, a megachurch, to assume the title of founding pastor as of May 1. Despite this change, the 89-year-old pastor will continue to deliver sermons on Sundays. Jonathan Murphy, chair and professor of Pastoral Ministries at Dallas Theological Seminary, will succeed Swindoll as the church’s new senior pastor.
The church’s elders expressed that Swindoll will maintain his presence in the pulpit on Sundays, while Murphy will oversee the church’s daily operations and step in to preach when needed. Swindoll will also serve as a mentor and advisor to Murphy, eventually passing on primary preaching responsibilities to him in the future. This decision came after two years of careful consideration, with Swindoll believing Murphy to be an ideal fit for the role.
Stonebriar Community Church eagerly welcomed Murphy as the new Senior Pastor, expressing gratitude for his alignment with the church’s commitment to teaching biblical truth. Murphy, originally from Northern Ireland, has a background in pastoral ministry and has served as a guest preacher at Stonebriar alongside Swindoll.
Swindoll, a native of El Campo, Texas, boasts a long and distinguished career in ministry. He graduated magna cum laude from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1963 and has served as a pastor in various churches across the United States. In addition to his pastoral duties, Swindoll co-founded Insight for Living Ministries, a widely broadcasted Bible study radio program.
Murphy’s upbringing as the child of missionary parents in the Canary Islands and Spain, along with his experience as a pastor in Northern Ireland, has prepared him for his new role at Stonebriar. His longstanding friendship and mentorship with Swindoll underscore the smooth transition anticipated by the church leadership.
In a heartfelt exchange, Swindoll and Murphy reflected on the divine orchestration of their paths, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve together in ministry. Their shared commitment to faith and leadership highlights the continuity and strength of Stonebriar Community Church’s mission under new pastoral leadership.