Life

Cape Christian announces leadership transition; Jackson named lead pastor

Cape Christian has announced a pastoral leadership transition with Kyle Jackson appointed as lead pastor, as Pastor Cory Demmel concludes his tenure.

For more than eight years, Demmel has focused on building a strong team, developing a healthy culture, expanding the church's campus footprint and leading the church through significant growth. Demmel shared that, after a season of prayer and reflection, he and his family sensed clearly that it was time to transition the leadership to the next person.

His family will be relocating to Nebraska, where their daughter will complete high school, and Demmel will continue his work in leadership development, coaching and consulting.

Jackson brings more than 15 years of ministry experience, including serving as campus pastor and a member of the teaching team at Church of the Highlands, a multi-campus church based in Birmingham, Ala. His prior ministry work includes next steps leadership, pastoral coaching networks and multi-site campus development.

Jackson and his family also have longstanding ties to Southwest Florida, where his wife, Jennifer, and her family have lived for many years.

As lead pastor, Jackson's responsibilities will include preaching and teaching, providing pastoral and organizational leadership to church staff and volunteers, and working with the board and leadership team to advance Cape Christian's long-term vision. His role will also involve supporting community partnerships and outreach efforts throughout Southwest Florida.

"Our responsibility during this transition has been to identify a leader who can faithfully carry forward the mission and ministry of Cape Christian," said Michael Johnson, board vice president. "Following an extensive and prayerful search process, the Board, Executive Team, and our Overseers unanimously agreed that Kyle Jackson is the right person to lead us into the future. His proven experience, strong leadership track record, and deep connection to Southwest Florida were key factors in our decision."

A statement from Jackson expressed his anticipation for the transition.

"We are excited to come and serve Southwest Florida alongside the people of Cape Christian," Jackson said. "Our hope is to reach this region for Jesus and enjoy the work God has called us to do together. The best is yet to come. I am very thankful for Cory, who has made this transition easy throughout the process. The Board of Directors has been excellent and life-giving every step of the way."

Demmel expressed both gratitude and confidence in the transition.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to have served Cape Christian and the city of Cape Coral," he said. "After nearly eight years in this role, my family and I sensed clearly that it was time to hand off the baton. I fully support the Board's decision and believe Kyle is prepared to lead the church well into its next season."

Founding Pastor Dennis Gingerich acknowledged the transition.

"Cape Christian has experienced several seasons of leadership development and transition throughout its history," Gingerich said. "I deeply appreciate Pastor Cory's contributions, and I strongly support the Board's appointment of Kyle Jackson as the next lead pastor."

The church noted that all current programs, ministries and its ongoing building project will continue as planned. Transition activities will take place throughout winter and spring, with a formal handoff planned for June.

Details about opportunities for the congregation and community to meet Jackson and his family will be released in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit CapeChristian.com or call 239-772-5683.

About Cape Christian 

Cape Christian was founded in 1987 with a vision to create a contemporary, non-denominational church in Cape Coral, reaching those who were unchurched. Over the years, the church has grown to welcome over 5,500 people to its weekend worship services. The campus includes Fellowship Park, a family-focused community space, and Parkside Cafe, which serves as a hub for ministry and community engagement. Cape Christian remains committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of people in Cape Coral and beyond. For more information, visit CapeChristian.com or call 239-772-5683.