Disciple Heritage Fellowship — Organization Profile
Disciple Heritage Fellowship (DHF) is a Christian ministry network that supports local churches and pastors with a common heritage in the Stone-Campbell movement. Based in Decatur, Illinois, the organization describes its mission as helping churches and pastors thrive and fulfill the Great Commission. DHF traces its founding to 1985, when three congregations in Illinois and Texas helped launch the fellowship. Its current ministry base is connected to First Christian Church in Decatur, which provides staff support for the network’s work.
DHF’s core focus is empowering churches and pastors to thrive and fulfill the Great Commission. Its ministry is aimed especially at congregations seeking encouragement, practical ministry support, and a shared identity rooted in Restoration Movement convictions. The organization also provides a framework for connection among church leaders who want relationships with like-minded congregations while remaining centered on local church ministry. DHF presents itself as a fellowship that helps pastors and lay leaders remain both faithful and effective in their ministry settings.
The fellowship serves churches across the United States and Canada, with a church directory that highlights congregations from around the country. Its reach is broader than a single region, even though it is administratively based in Decatur, Illinois. DHF’s public materials emphasize support for pastors, elders, and congregational leaders who may need guidance, resources, or connections during seasons of ministry challenge, leadership development, or transition.
DHF operates through several identifiable channels. It offers resources and networking opportunities for pastors and church leaders, including its Pastor’s Network, which provides affirmation, relationship, accountability, and ministry support for those in pastoral leadership. It also promotes Interim Pastor Ministries, a missional network of interim pastors who serve churches in transition. In addition, DHF hosts Elder Forums and a national conference, creating spaces where church leaders can learn together, address ministry questions, and strengthen leadership teams. Video and other media resources extend that support beyond in-person events.
People can engage with Disciple Heritage Fellowship in several ways. Churches can connect with the network, pastors can inquire about joining the Pastor’s Network, and supporters can give online or by mail. Leaders can also attend events such as the DHF National Conference and Elder Forums, or make use of the organization’s videos and ministry resources. The fellowship invites churches and leaders to build relationships, receive encouragement, and participate in a network focused on helping congregations navigate ministry, transition, and renewal.
As of the organization’s current leadership transition plans, Rick Grace serves as church liaison, and DHF has announced Randy Roberts as its next executive director beginning in March 2026. Public leadership information also lists a board of directors and support staff connected with First Christian Church in Decatur. Together, those details show a ministry structured to encourage, strengthen, and lead churches while maintaining a practical focus on pastoral care, leadership development, and church health.
Key Links
- Website: https://www.discipleheritage.org/
- About: https://www.discipleheritage.org/about
- Contact: https://www.discipleheritage.org/contact
- Churches: https://www.discipleheritage.org/churches
- Pastor’s Network: https://www.discipleheritage.org/pastorsnetwork
- Resources: https://www.discipleheritage.org/resources
- Give: https://www.discipleheritage.org/give
- LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/discipleheritage
- 2026 DHF National Conference: https://www.discipleheritage.org/conference
Contact Information
- Email: dh*@**************ge.org
- Phone: 217-875-3350
- Mailing address: 3350 N MacArthur Rd, Decatur, IL 62526
Socials
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@discipleheritage
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/discipleheritage/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiscipleHeritageFellowship/
Leadership
- Rick Grace — Church Liaison
- Randy Roberts — Next Executive Director beginning March 2026
- Drew McClellan — DHF Board President
- Nathan Loewen — DHF Board Vice-Chair
