Evangelical pastor, author, and radio personality Chuck Swindoll has announced his retirement as senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, after more than two decades of leadership.
According to The Christian Post, The 89-year-old pastor will deliver his final sermon in October, marking the end of an era for the church he helped establish in 1998.
In a heartfelt announcement posted by the church on Sunday, Swindoll shared his decision to step down, explaining: “The time has come for me to retire from Stonebriar — and embrace a new chapter in my life.”
He emphasised that this choice was made after careful reflection and with deep gratitude for his time at the church.
"Each moment spent with you has shaped me, taught me, and filled my heart with joy," Swindoll told the congregation. "Together, we have built a vibrant community grounded in faith, hope, and love. We have shared countless memories, celebrated milestones, and faced challenges hand in hand."
While Swindoll will retire from pastoral duties, he assured the congregation that he and his wife Cynthia would remain active members of Stonebriar. “This will always be our church family,” he said.
The outlet reported that Swindoll’s retirement from the pulpit will allow him to dedicate more time to his broadcast ministry, Insight for Living, which has been a major part of his life for more than 45 years.
The Bible study radio programme, founded by Swindoll and his wife in 1979, now reaches listeners worldwide through over 2,100 outlets.
"Insight for Living will be my singular focus moving forward," he said, adding that the ministry has been a “vibrant part” of his and Cynthia's lives for decades. He encouraged the congregation to continue living out the church’s mission, reminding them that “the church is not a building but a community of believers.”
As Swindoll transitions out of his pastoral role, Stonebriar Community Church will welcome Jonathan Murphy as its new senior pastor.
Murphy, originally from Northern Ireland and formerly the chair of Pastoral Ministries at Dallas Theological Seminary, will officially step into the role on 1st May 2024.
Swindoll will take on the title of founding pastor, continuing to provide spiritual guidance to the church in a new capacity.
Reflecting on his journey with the congregation, Swindoll expressed his hope for the future, saying: “I have faith that you will continue to shine brightly in this world.”