Brunson voted in as new pastor of Valleydale Church

Brunson voted in as new pastor of Valleydale Church

By Jennifer Davis Rash

The Alabama Baptist

Mac Brunson admits that moving from a megachurch pulpit where he was preaching to at least 6,000 people each Sunday to shepherding less than 1,000 people in a Birmingham, Alabama, suburb is a unique move. But it’s one he and his wife, Debbie, are embracing with enthusiasm.

It’s also a move the members of Valleydale Church, Birmingham, made official this morning with a vote to call him as pastor.

“This is a God move,” Brunson said. “Every church is critical and key in the kingdom of God. … I’m excited to be able to pour into the lives of others now that I’m in my 60s and have finally grown up,” he said with a chuckle May 17 prior to a reception with the church deacons and elders.

Debbie Brunson said she has heard Valleydale described as a sleeping giant, one with great potential that she and her husband hope to help do “incredible things for the Kingdom.”

The Brunsons commended the staff and lay leadership for their sophistication, thoughtfulness, organization and love for missions. “This church knows how to do community,” Mac Brunson said.

Jeff McGukin, executive pastor, looks forward to what is to come.

“Dr. Brunson is a great communicator and a humble leader,” McGukin said. “The people are excited and it’s almost unbelievable. We believe God’s in it.”

Brunson said his first order of business will be to sit in on a staff meeting to observe and learn what is being done now and get to know the people. There also are things to do such as find a house and make the move. The first Sunday in the pulpit for Brunson will be July 22.

Stay connected to The Alabama Baptist to learn about the transitional coach who brought the former megachurch pastor and Birmingham congregation together.

Editor’s Note — Photo is of Mac and Debbie Brunson at Valleydale Church, Birmingham, on May 17. (Photo by Jennifer Davis Rash)