We are entering a historic and joy-filled new chapter at Whittington Church!
After 48 incredible years of faithful leadership, Pastor Mark Minor is transitioning out of the Lead Pastor role at Whittington Church. Mark began as the pastor of Whittington Baptist Church, a small country church at the time, in 1978. Over the course of the following 47 years, God used Mark and Whittington Church to grow His Kingdom throughout the local community, Southern Illinois and the world. In addition to his pastoral role, Mark has served as a school board member for both Ewing Grade School and Benton Consolidated High School for over 30 years combined. He also serves as President of the Franklin Jefferson Special Education Board, and is an instructor for Rend Lake College.
We are profoundly grateful for Mark’s decades of ministry, vision, and love for our church family…and for the amazing work the Lord has done through Mark! He will remain on the Whittington Church pastoral staff as a part-time Associate Pastor with an emphasis in Pastoral Care & Counseling.
We are excited to announce that Pastor Bob Pankey, our longtime Associate Pastor, will step into the role of Lead Pastor beginning January 1, 2026. Bob has served in an associate pastor role at Whittington Church for 23 years. In addition to his leadership at Whittington, Bob also served as a high school football coach for ten years (2 years as the head football coach) at Benton Consolidated High School. He also served for almost 8 years as a Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, most recently serving in a Regional (5 states) Director role with FCA. His heart for people, commitment to God’s Word, and years of faithful service make him uniquely prepared for this moment.
“Bob and I have served together for years. I can think of no better man to carry the work, ministry and vision of Whittington Church into the next decade. I am confident in his leadership. The Lord has great things ahead for our church!” says Pastor Mark.
We are so very thankful for where the Lord has taken us and how He has blessed us over the past decades! And we are very excited about what the Lord has in store for us as a church moving forward! Join us in celebrating Mark’s leadership and continued service to Whittington Church, as well as Bob’s exciting new role!
Exalt God With Your Life
Encourage One Another
Equip the World Around You