Q: What happened?

A: There is no single event that led to this decision. Rather, it is the result of a cumulative process over the last two and a half years of working together—a process that has led to the realization that the time has come to part ways.

Q: Who made this decision?

A: Michael and the Governing Board came to an agreement that parting ways is the best path forward for both him and Summit.

Q: What’s the path forward? 

A: God has brought us through many difficult seasons in the past, and He has always proven faithful. While this transition may feel hard, our leadership and board do not see it as a crisis but as an agreed-upon parting of ways. We are confident that God will continue to build His Church in and through Summit for years to come.

Q: Who will lead Summit now?

A: Pastor Andy Simonds, one of Summit’s founders, will serve as the Lead Pastor in the interim. He will work with the Board and leadership teams to establish stability, regain momentum, and prayerfully discern the process for identifying the person God is calling to lead Summit in the years ahead. Andy has the full support of the Board, Executive Leadership Team, and his fellow pastors and ministers.

Q: Who will be the primary teacher in our Sunday services?

A: You will continue to hear from our team of teachers, with Kailey Newkirk as the primary communicator at Summit Orlando and OJ Aldrich as the primary communicator at Summit Lake Mary. Our team of teachers include Chris Timson, Katie Evans, Andy Simonds, and others. 

Q: How does the Governing Board reflect on Michael’s ministry at Summit?

A: We are profoundly grateful for his faithful leadership, teaching, and pastoral care to our congregation over the past two and a half years. Throughout his season at Summit, many have grown in their walk with Jesus, and lives have been impacted for the Kingdom.

We are committed to caring for Michael and his family well through this transition. Michael is a gifted communicator and we are confident he will continue to make an impact wherever God calls him next.

Q: How can I come alongside Summit during this season?

A: Please join us in praying for Michael and his family, for our leadership teams, and for our church family. Continue to show up, serve, and grow in faith—knowing Christ is building His Church and will continue to lead us forward.