Central KY pastor gives last sermon as head of one of the state’s biggest churches
Jon Weece, head pastor of one of the largest church systems in Kentucky, preached his last sermon as Southland Christian Church’s “lead follower” Sunday.
The pastor is launching a new ministry, Boone Brothers, with a mission to feed hungry children across the state and “a vision that stretches to all 50 states,” the church’s website reads. Weece first announced he would step down in January 2025.
In his new ministry, rooted “in a state where 1 in 5 children goes to bed hungry, God is opening a door to love the most vulnerable in a tangible way,” the church’s website reads.
Jan. 4, before his final sermon, Weece hugged Scott Nickell, the church’s new lead pastor.
“I am a different man because of your love,” Weece told congregants.
“Scott’s been on staff since 2017. He’s not a stranger to the church. They know him and trust him. Scott’s born and raised in this church. So he loves this place,” Weece told the Herald-Leader last year.
Southland, which draws as many as 14,000 worshipers and has 120 staff to manage thousands of volunteers, has five locations across Central Kentucky, including a Lexington campus on Richmond Road. It ranks among the country’s larger evangelical churches.
“Today was especially meaningful as we had the privilege of hearing Jon Weece preach his final sermon as Southland’s Lead Follower,” a church Facebook post from Sunday reads. “Central Kentucky is different and better because of Jon’s faithful leadership, and we’re filled with gratitude for all God has done through him and anticipation for what God has ahead.”
The Herald-Leader has reached out for comment.
Weece has led the church since he was 26, the Herald-Leader reported last year.
Ryan Quarles, former Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner and president of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, was among those who acknowledged Weece’s departure on social media Sunday night.
“Thank you Jon for 28 years at Southland Christian Church,” Quarles wrote. “I’ve enjoyed his messages and leadership.”