On Monday, August 28, Southeastern Seminary announced Chuck Lawless, vice president for spiritual formation and ministry centers at Southeastern, as the new director for its Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership (CPPL), starting this fall semester.
Lawless, who also serves as senior professor of evangelism and missions, dean of doctoral studies, and Richard and Gina Headrick chair of world missions at Southeastern, brings over a decade of pastoral experience to the role and is excited for the opportunity to further equip pastors to serve Jesus and finish well.
“I am a pastor at heart, having served as lead pastor for 14 years in Ohio before joining a seminary faculty,” shared Lawless. “I love pastors, and I’m amazed and humbled by their responsibility. So many of them, though, find themselves lonely and hurting. Others are simply overwhelmed. Even those whose ministries are strong need encouragement at times. As I and my team build on the work of the previous directors, I want this center to stand with and edify these pastors.”
The mission of CPPL is to equip and encourage pastors to lead healthy, disciple-making churches for the glory of God around the world. As an extension of the seminary’s partnership with the local church, the CPPL equips, connects, and resources local church pastors through annual events, mentorship opportunities, a growing support network, as well as podcasts and other online resources.
The CPPL recognizes that pastors often feel isolated or lack access to resources that are strategically tailored for their encouragement and support. Bridging that gap, the CPPL seeks to be an ongoing ministry resource to pastors. Committed to the ministry of these local church pastors, Lawless prays the center will continue to offer them the vital support and training they need to flourish in Great Commission ministry.
“Dr. Lawless is not only an outstanding scholar, professor, and administrator but also a godly leader with a shepherd’s heart,” commented President Danny Akin. “His pastoral experience and his heart for the Church and its mission make him an excellent fit for this role. I know he will be a profound blessing to hundreds of pastors and preachers as they seek to faithfully serve the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Lawless, who has taught at Southeastern since 2012, will continue his other teaching and administrative roles while serving as director of CPPL. Lawless’s appointment to the position follows Ronjour Locke’s announcement Monday that he will be transitioning out of the role to focus full time on research and teaching.
Locke, instructor of preaching and urban ministry at Southeastern, was instrumental in developing the resources and influence of CPPL to what they are today, contributing his extensive pastoral experience to the growth of CPPL. Returning to full-time teaching, Locke will continue investing in pastors and future church leaders as he equips students to serve the Church and fulfill the Great Commission.
“I am so very grateful for Professor Locke’s outstanding leadership over our Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership,” noted Akin. “He and his family are such a blessing to our school. I am delighted he will continue teaching full-time as one of our faculty members and will have more time to invest in research and academic development.”
For more information about CPPL resources, events, and mentorship opportunities or to learn how you or your pastor can be involved, visit pastorscenter.org.
