Ministry Update: Pastor Jacob
Hello Sonrise Family.
We want to share an important update with you regarding Pastor Jacob and his ministry journey at Sonrise.
As a young pastor in his 20s, Jacob is currently in a season of sharpening his pastoral calling. This is something many pastors experience at a similar age. Pastor Paul reflected on his own journey during that season, sharing that it became a time of discovery — one that helped him further develop his ministry philosophy and understand where his gifts could be most effective. He remembers exploring different ministry styles, wrestling with questions of calling, and considering which churches aligned best with his convictions. For him, this process eventually led to stepping away from a wonderful church filled with people he still loves to this day. Jacob now finds himself at a similar point of transition.
After much prayerful discussion over a long period, we all feel that God is calling us to different ministry spaces. Both Jacob and the Executive Team agree that he would flourish at a smaller church where he can connect more personally with each member. This setting aligns well with Jacob’s shepherding heart. At the same time, we sense that God is calling us to build a team of pastors at Sonrise who can equip and multiply leaders to serve a growing congregation. The best way to describe this difference is by comparing a doctor working at a family practice with a doctor working at a hospital. Each scale requires different skills, and both serve the community with great care. Clarity on this distinction was shared by the Executive Team with Jacob, and he agreed that he was better suited to serve in a different setting.
In his own words, Jacob describes it this way:
“There’s been a growing sense of mismatch between me and Sonrise over the past three years. The best way I can describe it is that I feel more suited to a small family practice doctor’s office, while Sonrise feels more like a hospital. Although both hospitals and doctors’ offices need doctors and nurses, the skills and personalities required for each are quite different. The pastors and I have worked hard to train and shape me for a hospital-like environment, but it just hasn’t clicked. The executive team has helped me realize that I likely won’t be able to build and lead the kind of ministry that Sonrise’s Ten Year Vision requires, and that my skills and passions might be better suited to a different ministry setting. So, I have decided to follow their wisdom and will complete my time at Sonrise at the end of 2025.”
With mutual respect and understanding, Pastor Jacob will transition out of his pastoral role in the month of October. This timeline will give Jacob enough time to consider and plan his next steps, which may include pursuing higher education.
We are excited to see how God will utilize Pastor Jacob’s unique talents and passions in the future, and we remain dedicated to supporting him during this transition. We trust that God has wonderful plans for both Pastor Jacob and Sonrise, and we look forward to seeing His plans come to life.
Thank you for taking a moment to read this ministry update.
Pastor Paul, Pastor Aaron, and Pastor Daniel
General Questions About the Transition
Why is Pastor Jacob leaving Sonrise? After much prayerful discussion and self-reflection, both Pastor Jacob and the Executive Team have come to recognize that his ministry style and passions are a better fit for a smaller church environment. It's not about a lack of faithfulness or ability, but about finding the setting where he can best use his gifts.
When will Pastor Jacob be leaving? Pastor Jacob will complete his time at Sonrise in the month of October. This allows him time to prayerfully consider his next steps.
Was there a conflict or incident that led to this decision? No, this decision was made with mutual respect and love over a lengthy period of time. It's about recognizing different callings and ministry styles. The Executive Team and Jacob agree that God is leading them to different spaces.
Where is Pastor Jacob going? Pastor Jacob is still discerning his next steps. He may pursue ministry in a smaller church setting or consider further education. We will be sure to share updates as we have them.
How was this decision reached? This decision was reached after much prayer, conversation, and consideration over a long period of time between Pastor Jacob and the Executive Team.
Questions About Pastor Jacob
Is Pastor Jacob being dismissed because of poor performance? Absolutely not. This is not a reflection on Pastor Jacob's faithfulness or abilities. The Executive Team has acknowledged his ministry faithfulness and his hard work. It’s simply a matter of finding the right fit for his skills and passions.
How can we support Pastor Jacob during this transition? Please keep Pastor Jacob in your prayers as he discerns his next steps. Offer him encouragement and support as he transitions out of his role.
Will there be an opportunity to say goodbye to Pastor Jacob? Yes, we will be planning opportunities to celebrate Pastor Jacob's ministry and offer our thanks and well wishes as his departure approaches. Stay tuned for details.
Questions About Sonrise
How will this affect the church? The Executive Team is committed to ensuring a smooth transition. They have a plan in place to cover Pastor Jacob's responsibilities and continue the ministry effectively.
Will Sonrise be searching for a replacement for Pastor Jacob? No. We are not actively seeking to fill the role of Young Adults Pastor at this time.
What is the "Ten-Year Vision"? The Ten-Year Vision is Sonrise's strategic plan for the church's future. It outlines the goals and direction the church will take in the coming years. A copy of the vision can be found on our website.
Questions About the Process
Why are you announcing this so far in advance? We believe in transparency and want to give everyone time to process this news and prepare for the transition. It also allows Pastor Jacob ample time to prayerfully consider his future plans.
Who was involved in making this decision? The decision was made jointly by Pastor Jacob and the Executive Team, with input from other members of the leadership team.