Rev. Brandon Gilvin
Two years ago, the search committee had its work cut out for them as they narrowed down applicants ready to serve as senior minister at First Christian Church. Led by Chairman Dan Summerlin, the committee provided frequent updates to the entire congregation and held cottage meetings that were attended by many members. These meetings confirmed the fact that First Christian Church was not only ready for change but also embraced it.
In late summer of 2015, Rev. Brandon Gilvin and his wife, Dr. Lisa Hale Gilvin visited the church to meet with members at a dinner in their honor. Shortly thereafter, the call to serve as pastor was extended; and the rest, as they say, is history.
Rev. Gilvin assumed his duties on October 15, 2015. This Sunday, one year and one day into his tenure, the Rev. Dr. Christal Williams, regional minister, Disciples of Christ, will install him as FCC’s 17th pastor.
Rev. Gilvin spent the first 12 years of his career developing a unique skill set, as his work took him all over the world, and gave him insight into some of the best ways communities--large and small--can make a difference in the world. He served as director of Operations at Week of Compassion for more than five years in the Indiana area. Besides duties as FCC senior minister, Rev. Gilvin works as a consultant, freelance writer, educator, and speaker. He is currently a member of the Introductory Field Education Seminar Teaching Team at Vanderbilt University, his alma mater, where he facilitates a small group of M.Div. students regarding their internship placements.
Blessed with an impressive array of leadership skills, Rev. Gilvin leads with a results-driven perspective on sustainable development, disaster and other humanitarian relief.
As a self-professed "glue guy for a team,” his compassion and professionalism help him tackle big problems, while developing more nimble, imaginative ideas in the process. “I will gladly handle the small stuff, too,” he chuckles.
Rev. Gilvin’s leadership style emphasizes trust, mutual engagement and empowerment. Members of FCC feel revitalized under his leadership and sense of community.
Located at 650 McCallie Ave., across from UTC, all are welcome at First Christian Church, a church of service, working for wholeness in a broken world. Visit http://firstchristian-chat.com for more information.
Rev. Brandon Gilvin