A Message From Pastor Chad – 2025

As you read in the letter from the board that went out yesterday, this decision was not made lightly. I’ve been telling people that it feels genuinely strange to leave something so good, beautiful, and life-giving for a vision we just can’t shake. Leaving a church isn’t like stepping away from any other job—pastoring is so much more than that.

Canyon Springs has been our home for almost 11 years. Megan and I got married here. We had our kids here, and many of you have played a part in helping raise them. I’ve walked alongside you in your faith journeys, shared in your joys and sorrows, and always rooted for you to experience the fullness of life with Jesus. 

This isn’t a decision to run from something. In fact, we LOVE what’s happening at our church. There’s no drama, no scandal—just a deep sense that God is calling our family on an adventure, leading us toward a vision we can’t ignore. For the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of working with an Executive Coaching firm, helping individuals and teams go Beyond High Performance. This work has captured my heart, and I believe God is leading me to step fully into this calling.

I have complete confidence in our board and denomination to find the next pastor for Canyon Springs. And let’s address the elephant in the room—this church has experienced a lot of change over the past three years. For a long time, we saw very little turnover, and recently, it’s felt like a whirlwind. That’s real. That’s hard. And if you’re feeling the weight of it, you’re not alone. I’ve been in the thick of these transitions, and leading through them has been equally challenging for our family and our staff. But here’s the truth: change is painful because church is personal. We bring all of ourselves into this space, and when people leave, it hurts. And honestly? I wouldn’t want it any other way. If we weren’t sad, it would mean we didn’t care.

Here’s what I do know—Canyon Springs is resilient. You have worshiped in multiple schools, gathered in a park for over a year, and navigated challenging seasons together. And you will do it again. I know you don’t show up every Sunday for me (though I like to think I’m pretty decent.) You show up for each other, for community, and ultimately for Jesus. And I have every confidence that our leadership will continue to keep Him as the center of it all.

So here’s my ask: Over the next 90(ish) days, let’s be together. Let’s grab coffee, lunch, a beer—whatever feels right. Let’s celebrate, grieve, laugh, and share stories. Whatever your heart needs, I’m in.

I love you, Canyon Springs.