Dear Christ Church,

In mid-July, Tonya and I received a call from a Global Methodist Church in New Albany, Mississippi, about candidating for their senior pastor position. We considered it, and after visiting and interviewing, we felt a holy stirring in our hearts. As we sat around the table with the wonderful people of New Albany, we realized this wasn’t so much an emotion but a true sense of calling.

We have accepted that call to become their pastor, and I’ll be transitioning in early September to First Methodist Church of New Albany, Mississippi. Much like Christ Church, it has a rich history, including being built in 1928. But most of all, what reminds me the most of my experience here at Christ Church is the people of the church. They’re hungry and thirsty for more of God and strong leadership. We consider it such a privilege to be taking this step of faith. But this is a difficult decision because we love you, and you are always on our hearts and minds. I’ve always believed that pastors help shape congregations, but I know from experience that congregations help shape the hearts and lives of their pastors. I’m a better pastor because I’ve had the opportunity to do life with you and serve the Lord at Christ Church Memphis. Thank you for helping shape my life.

I want to say a special thank you to Pastor Paul Lawler, who has genuinely been a yoke-fellow for me. The last two years have been a time when my spirit has been restored, my body rested, and I’m excited for this challenge. I’ve never met a leader with his capacities, and I’m thankful that I’m only 90 miles away so that I can continue to utilize his mentorship.

We love you, Christ Church, and are so grateful for you. We consider it one of the greatest gifts that my children were raised in Christ Church and that we were able to spend 12 and a half years, during their formative years, here at this church. Your dedication made it an exceptional and grace-filled experience that they have multiple sets of grandparents.

In closing, I want to say that I don’t think Christ Church has ever been as poised for revival as it is now. This is not only because of strong pastoral leadership but also because the core of leadership that Christ Church possesses is a true gift. My prayer is that Christ Church and New Albany experience revival together. I pray that we will be part of the local and global mission that is near and dear to the Lord’s heart.

We love you and are so grateful for you.

Pastor Chris Carter

Carter Family Celebration

Join us on Sunday, September 8, for a special gathering as we honor Bro. Chris Carter and his family as they embark on God’s calling to New Albany, MS. From 9:30 to 10:45 AM, drop by Holy Grounds to share your love, encouragement, and blessings with the Carter family before they begin this new chapter in their journey.

Additionally, we’re collecting notes for Bro. Chris and his family. If you’d like to contribute, please bring a letter to the Seabrook Lobby front desk or email it to info@christchurchmemphis.org. If you’d like to share a private note with Bro. Chris, please bring that to him at the Carter Family Celebration.