CHICAGO, IL (January 25, 2017) – Danny Martinez, pastor of Grace Covenant Church in Spring Valley, California, has been nominated by the Central Conference Executive Board to succeed Jerome Nelson as superintendent. Nelson is retiring at the end of this summer after serving three terms.
Martinez was nominated by the board through a process that began with more than 35 names submitted by constituents for consideration, said Dan Teefey, chair of the board, which also served as the search committee. After reviewing all the submissions, the board engaged seven of the candidates for further consideration and interviewed four final candidates. The interview pool reflected both gender and ethnic diversity, and included candidates both serving within and beyond the conference.
Teefey said the committee was impressed with Martinez’s experience. “Pastor Danny has led in nearly every capacity of the church,” he said. “His background includes lay ministry, youth pastor, worship leader, and senior pastor. He also serves as the president of the Ministry of Hispanic Covenant Churches in the United States (MHIPE).
Teefey added, “Pastor Danny loves God, loves the church, and loves the Covenant. We are excited for him to follow God’s call and serve the Central Conference.”
Martinez said, “It is with great humility and gratefulness that I accept the nomination for superintendent of the Central Conference. I am a child of the Covenant and the result of much personal investment by our denominational leaders, pastors, staff, friends, and family. I am very aware that I stand on the shoulders of the many incredible people who have built a place where we can work together for the kingdom of God. I ask for your prayers and support in this transition.”
