Andy Stanley to Step Down as North Point Ministries Senior Pastor
The board has nominated Joel Thomas as successor, and about 50,000 eligible voters will decide whether to approve the leadership transition.
- On Sunday, October 18, 2026, Pastor Andy Stanley announced plans to step down from his leadership roles at North Point Ministries and North Point Community Church in 2027, marking a major transition for the Atlanta-area church network.
- Stanley, who founded the church 31 years ago, said he and his wife, Sandra, discussed the departure for four years to ensure organizational stability while allowing more time with his grandchildren.
- The board of elders nominated Executive Director Joel Thomas to succeed Stanley, pending a congregational vote open through Friday, October 30, 2026. Approximately 50,000 eligible congregants may participate, with results expected November 1, 2026.
- Stanley emphasized, "I'm retiring from my job, but I'm not retiring from ministry." He will remain on the Board of Elders and continue preaching in the church's rotation.
- If approved, Thomas will assume the senior pastor position January 1, 2027, while Stanley plans to vacate his role as lead pastor of North Point Community Church in June 2027.
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Andy Stanley Stepping Down From North Point After 31 Years - Charisma Magazine Online
After more than three decades at the helm of one of America’s most influential megachurch networks, Andy Stanley is preparing to step down. Stanley, 68, announced Sunday that he will step down from his leadership positions at North Point Ministries and North Point Community Church, marking a significant change of the guard for the ministry […]
ChurchLeaders
Christian News NowAndy Stanley Announces Plans To Step Down as Senior Pastor of North Point Ministries After 31 Years
Pastor Andy Stanley announced that he is transitioning out of his roles as senior pastor of North Point Ministries and lead pastor of North Point Community Church.
Andy Stanley to step down as North Point Ministries senior pastor
North Point Ministries senior pastor Andy Stanley announced Sunday that he plans to step down from his leadership roles in 2027, beginning a transition to new leadership for the Atlanta-area church network.
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