January 1, 2026
Leading Through the Hand-Off: Lessons in Pastoral Transition
With careful planning, clear communication, financial foresight, and sensitivity to personalities, churches can not only survive transitions, they can thrive through them.
Articles for tag: Mesa Arizona
December 5, 2018
Megachurch Helping Asylum-Seekers (Plus News Briefs)
Compiled by Chris Moon Central Christian Church in Mesa, Ariz., is one of several nearby churches that have helped house nearly 5,000 asylum-seekers who have crossed the Mexican border into the United States since October. According to the Arizona Mirror, the megachurch has received five large groups of migrants released by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The asylum-seekers are brought temporarily to the church’s worship center, where they are fed and clothed and connected with local families who can house them temporarily. Eventually, the migrants go to live with relatives across the United States until their asylum cases can be
6 Pointers for Leaders Getting Ready to Retire
By LeRoy Lawson While admitting there is no sure-fire formula for success in succession, I have learned a few things from retiring and watching others retire. Here”s my advice. “I wanted you to do well. I didn”t want you to do this well.” I had been away from my 20-year ministry with Central Christian Church in Mesa, Arizona, for more than a year when Cal Jernigan, my successor, invited me back to preach one weekend. It was already evident the church was prospering under his guidance. All I had hoped would happen in that first year after my departure had
Mike Baker’s Thought Leaders
We asked 35 Christian leaders, “Who is the influencer with the biggest impact on your life and ministry?” Most of these leaders listed several influential thinkers, writers, innovators, and leaders more of us should get to know. This response is from Mike Baker, senior pastor with Eastview Christian Church, Normal, Illinois. ________ Two men have helped me think both as a Christian and a pastor for nearly 25 years. Both Cal Jernigan, senior pastor at Central Christian Church of Mesa, Arizona, and J.K. Jones, pastor of spiritual formation at Eastview Christian Church, Normal, Illinois, have impacted my thinking in great ways. J.K.
July 15, 2014
A Conversation with Cal Jernigan
Cal Jernigan calls himself “a success story of the Christian church.” See why, and hear the pastor of Central Christian Church, Mesa, Arizona, explain why he believes church leadership is a lot harder than it looks. Enjoy his interview with CHRISTIAN STANDARD Editor Mark Taylor here.
May 13, 2011
Interview with Lisa Jernigan and Patty Wyatt
Patty Wyatt and Lisa Jernigan discuss Girlfriend It, a relational approach to women’s ministry that challenges women to serve, lead, build community, and reach others with purpose.
November 24, 2010
Teaching People to Pray One at a Time
Paul Covert shares practical lessons from Central Christian Church on building a vibrant prayer ministry through coaching, relationships, strategic prayer, and clear entry points for volunteers.
November 24, 2010
Increase Your Church”s Passion for Prayer
Paul Covert shares practical ways Central Christian Church of the East Valley helps people begin, grow, and deepen their prayer lives through training, intercession, accountability, and prayer-focused ministry.
October 28, 2007
Extraordinary Living
A birthday reflection and a memorial service lead Lisa Jernigan to consider what makes a life extraordinary. Through Vera’s example, she points to unconditional love, sacrificial living, and a giving heart shaped by Christ.
April 22, 2007
The Simplest of Things
A small act—like buying coffee for the car behind you—can spark a ripple of generosity. Lisa Jernigan urges readers to stop waiting, step into the arena, and let God multiply simple, faithful beginnings.
March 4, 2007
Seeing Your Team Through the Eyes of WE!
A practical reframing of “TEAM” for ministry and life: thick skin, humility, accountability, and managing yourself. Learn why a “we” mindset strengthens relationships, builds resilient teams, and reflects Christ’s love in community.
