Transition Announced Amid Stability and Growth
David Dummitt, who became senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in 2020 during the pandemic, has announced his resignation. Shawn Williams, current campus pastor of the church’s South Barrington location, will step into the senior pastor role starting April 1. Dummitt will stay on staff through July to assist in a smooth leadership transition. Church elders praised Dummitt for leading during a pivotal time and fostering unity and stability.
Church Rebounds After Turbulent Years
Willow Creek faced significant setbacks after the 2018 resignation of founding pastor Bill Hybels amid misconduct allegations. The scandal led to the departure of Hybels’ successors and the elder board. Dummitt was hired in 2020 to rebuild trust and guide recovery. Under his leadership, the church ended 2024 with its first budget surplus since 2019 and saw a 16% rise in in-person attendance, reaching nearly 10,000 weekly attendees, plus 3,700 online viewers.
A Healthy Departure, Not a Crisis
At a Saturday meeting with congregants and donors, Dummitt emphasized that his resignation was not due to scandal or pressure. “No one has asked me to step down,” he stated, adding he initiated the decision last fall. Calling the move a “healthy, smooth momentum-building transition,” Dummitt said he was tired after 25 years as a senior pastor and looked forward to new ventures, including coaching and volunteering.
Mixed Reactions and High Hopes for New Leadership
Reactions among church members and staff included both gratitude for Dummitt’s leadership and optimism for Williams’ future. Executive Pastor Megan Bagnall and others supported Williams’ appointment. Elder board chair Harold Engelmann described the rigorous selection process, noting that Williams emerged as the clear choice. Longtime volunteer Ed Kanthack expressed sadness at the transition but shared hope for continued renewal.
Williams Sets Vision Ahead of Church’s 50th Anniversary
Williams, who joined Willow Creek in 2020, pledged to continue expanding outreach and discipleship ministries. The Wheaton College graduate previously served at churches in Las Vegas and the Chicago suburbs. Speaking to the congregation, he reaffirmed the church’s mission: “Lost people matter to God,” and committed to creating welcoming spaces for spiritual transformation.
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Willow Creek Pastor Dave Dummitt to Step Down, Shawn Williams Named Successor
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