Dr. Christal Resigns

Elder Arnold Hayes, Moderator of the Christian Church in Tennessee, shared the following letter to inform the church of the resignation of Rev. Dr. Christal Williams.

September 6, 2023

To: Congregations and Members of the Christian Church in Tennessee

The Rev. Dr. Christal Williams Resigns as Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Tennessee's Regional Minister and President effective December 8th, 2023.

On behalf of our Regional Board, we are saddened that Dr. Williams is leaving us, but we are excited for her opportunity to serve our church in a new role as Regional Minister and President of Indiana. We are thankful for her seven years of faithful and effective service to our region, during a number of challenging times, including the Covid19 epidemic. Our region is better off because of Dr. Williams’ excellent leadership. 

This communication is being sent to notify our members and congregations of Dr. Williams’ resignation, to thank her for her service, to inform the body of the actions that have been taken so far, and to convey that our Regional Board and Dr. Williams will be doing everything possible to ensure a smooth transition. 

Please note the following actions that have taken place:

  • August 29th. A preliminary phone conversation between Dr. Williams and Regional Moderator Hayes.

  • September 2nd. Resignation letters, along with a Preliminary Exit Plan was submitted by Dr. Williams to Regional Moderator Hayes

  • September 3rd. In response to the resignation letter, an Urgent Virtual Regional Board meeting was conducted. After a passionate discussion, the Regional Board voted to accept Dr. Williams’ resignation.

  • September 5th. Regional Moderator Hayes had a phone conversation with the General Church’s Search Committee Chair.  

We ask for the Lord’s guidance as we enter into a new era of regional leadership.

Please read Dr. William's letter to the Tennessee Region here.

Please call the regional office or email me at arnold@tndisciples.org if you have questions.

Blessings,

Elder Arnold Hayes

Regional Moderator