A New Season for ERCF —And What It Means for You

This next season is about continuing to build a church where you can grow in your faith, experience real community, and step into what God has for your life.

Our heart is to become a church that not only gathers, but disciples—where people are known, supported, and equipped to live out their faith in everyday life.

This transition positions ERCF to move forward with clarity, unity, and a renewed focus on helping people grow in their relationship with Jesus.

The Transition

After many years of faithful leadership, Jim Gordon will be stepping out of his role as Lead Pastor and CEO and moving into a new role as Pastor Emeritus.

This transition comes from Jim’s heart and has been part of a thoughtful and prayerful process over time.

We are deeply grateful for Jim and Carrie’s leadership, their heart for people, and the lasting impact they have had on ERCF.

Looking Ahead

As part of this transition, Chris Long will be stepping into the role of Lead Pastor and CEO.

Chris has been serving as Executive Pastor and has been closely involved in the life, leadership, and future direction of ERCF. We are excited about this next season and the way God is leading our church forward.

Looking Forward Together

As we step into this next season, our focus is simple:

To become a church where people don’t just attend, but grow.

A church where discipleship is at the center—where people are known, supported, and encouraged in their walk with Jesus.

We believe this season will be marked by deeper community, stronger faith, and a renewed sense of purpose for every person who calls ERCF home.

Join Us in This Next Season

We believe God is leading ERCF into a meaningful new chapter, and we would love for you to be part of it.

Join us this Sunday as we step forward together as a church family.

And mark your calendar for June 28, as we take time to celebrate, pray, and commission this next season together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions & Contact

If you have any questions, we would love to hear from you.

succession@ercf.ca

  • This transition has been in process for some time and comes out of prayer, discernment, and ongoing conversations about the future of ERCF.

    Jim sensed this was the right time to step into a new season, and together with the Board and Pastoral Advisors, there has been a shared confidence that God is leading in this direction.

  • No. Jim is not leaving ERCF.

    He will be stepping into the role of Pastor Emeritus, which allows him to continue to be part of the life of the church in a meaningful way, while no longer carrying the day-to-day leadership responsibility.

  • Pastor Emeritus is an honorary and relational role that reflects Jim’s years of faithful leadership.

    In this role, Jim will continue to be part of the church community and may serve in supportive and pastoral ways, while the primary leadership responsibility shifts to the Lead Pastor.

  • This decision was made through a thorough and prayerful process involving the Board of Directors and Pastoral Advisors.

    Over time, Chris has been serving as Executive Pastor and has demonstrated strong leadership, alignment with the vision of ERCF, and a deep commitment to the mission of the church.

    This was not a quick decision, but one made with care, unity, and confidence.

  • he leadership transition is being communicated in this season, with a time of prayer, alignment, and preparation leading up to a formal commissioning and celebration on June 28.

  • Chris Long will serve as Lead Pastor & CEO, providing overall leadership, vision, and direction for the church.

    Jim Gordon will serve as Pastor Emeritus, continuing to be part of the church community and supporting in appropriate ways.

  • As ERCF continues to grow, we want to strengthen our leadership structure.

    An Executive Director will help oversee operations and organizational leadership, allowing the Lead Pastor to focus more fully on spiritual leadership, vision, and teaching.

  • Over time, we anticipate continuing to invest in key areas of ministry and administration

  • We want to walk through this together as a church family.

    If you have questions, you can reach out at:

    succession@ercf.ca

  • The best way to support this season is through:

    • Prayer

    • Unity

    • Encouragement for both Jim and Chris

    • Continued engagement in the life of the church

    We believe God is leading ERCF into a meaningful new season, and we’re grateful to walk into it together.