Reaching Hearts Welcomes Nick Stephenson

Nick Stephenson was installed as the new associate pastor of the Reaching Hearts International church in Laurel, Md., during the Sabbath worship service on March 11. Jerry Lutz, Chesapeake Conference president, was on-hand on behalf of the conference to introduce Stephenson and pray for his ministry.

“As [Stephenson] began to share his testimony with us [during the interview process], it became very clear to us that the Lord has placed His hands on this man for ministry,” Lutz said during his remarks to the congregation. 

Stephenson brings with him over two decades of business experience, having worked at T-Mobile for more than 20 years. However, in 2021, Stephenson says he felt like God was telling him He wanted “more” of him. Over time, he became impressed that God was calling him to pastoral ministry which led him to leave the business world and become a lay pastor in the Oregon Conference. Looking back, Stephenson says he can see many ways that God was preparing him for ministry.

Now, as he takes on his new role at Reaching Hearts International, Stephenson says he sees a lot of potential for the congregation, which recently joined the Chesapeake Conference. “We have the venue and the people, now we need to create the programs and the opportunities to get people involved and bring new people in,” he said.

Among his new responsibilities, Stephenson will oversee the church’s young adult, youth, and children’s ministries. He says he’s already been motivated by the passion the young adults have expressed to get involved and he’s excited to help them put together strong programs.

Stephenson is married to his wife, Stephanie, and the couple has three children.