Setting Sail Into A New Season

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5–6

As Kirk in the Hills continues its Charting the Course journey, the congregation is entering a new season of ministry with hearts full of gratitude and hope. Like a sailboat catching a fresh wind, the church is moving forward—guided by God’s faithful hand, strengthened by dedicated leaders who have served with excellence, and inspired by those whom God is calling to lead in the years ahead.

This season is marked by both joyful welcomes and heartfelt farewells. Together, these leadership transitions reflect not simply changes in personnel, but God’s ongoing work in shaping the life and ministry of the Kirk for generations to come.

Leading this new chapter is the arrival of Rev. Matthew Means, who joins Kirk in the Hills as Associate Pastor of Spiritual Formation & Discipleship.

A native Michigander with more than 20 years of pastoral leadership experience, Rev. Means returns home after serving nearly a decade as Pastor and Head of Staff at Old First Presbyterian Church in Huntington, New York. His ministry has also included leadership in Ohio and Metro Detroit, and he is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, where his research focuses on strengthening support for pastors and church leaders.

Throughout the search process, the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee was deeply impressed by Rev. Means’ spiritual maturity, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering trust in the Holy Spirit. Committee members described him as a pastor whose ministry is rooted in Scripture, prayer, authentic relationships, and a passion for helping people of every generation grow as disciples of Jesus Christ. Following months of prayer and discernment, the committee unanimously affirmed its belief that God was calling Rev. Means to the Kirk.

“Matthew is a gifted pastor whose passion for spiritual formation, biblical teaching, and authentic relationships makes him an exceptional addition to our pastoral staff,” said Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Edwin Estevez. “His heart for discipleship, collaborative spirit, and love for the Church will help us continue forming people who faithfully follow Jesus Christ in every season of life. We are grateful that God has called him to the Kirk for such a time as this.”

Rev. Means joins Rev. Rami Michael Almaqdasi, who began serving in June as Associate Pastor for Congregational Care & Evangelism. Additionally, Rev. Dr. Philip J. Reed returns this summer as a Parish Associate to round out the growing needs of the community and congregation. Together with Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Edwin Estevez, the Kirk’s three-pastor model reflects the church’s commitment to preaching the Gospel, nurturing disciples, providing compassionate pastoral care, and sharing Christ’s love beyond the walls of the church.

The congregation is also celebrating several important staff appointments that will strengthen ministry across every generation.

Beginning August 3, Sarah Ford will serve as Full-Time Director of Children, Youth, and Families, reflecting the continued growth of ministries serving children, youth, and families. On August 17, Rev. Marilyn Borst will join the staff as Interim Director of Mission, Ministry, and Women of the Kirk, bringing extensive experience in mission leadership and congregational engagement. In addition, Zena Kyles has assumed expanded responsibilities as Director of Finance, continuing her faithful stewardship of the church’s financial resources and strategic priorities.

Earlier this year, the Kirk also welcomed Adam Baron as Executive Director & Chief of Staff. His leadership in organizational strategy, administration, and ministry operations will help support the church’s mission as it continues to grow and faithfully pursue God’s vision for the future.

As the Kirk welcomes new leaders, it also pauses to celebrate those whose faithful service has left an enduring mark on the congregation.

This August, the church will honor the extraordinary ministries of Dr. Marilyn Biery, Director of Music, and Dr. Jim Biery, Artist-in-Residence, as they retire after years of faithful service.

Through inspiring worship, exceptional musicianship, sacred concerts, mentoring generations of musicians, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Marilyn and Jim have helped shape one of the defining ministries of Kirk in the Hills. Their gifts have enriched worship, elevated sacred music, and pointed countless people toward God through beauty, creativity, and the arts. Their legacy will continue to resonate throughout the life of the church for years to come.

The congregation also extends heartfelt gratitude to Jayne Zellers, who recently retired after 20 years as Business Manager. Through faithful stewardship, wise leadership, and steadfast service, Jayne helped guide the church through two decades of ministry with grace, professionalism, and unwavering dedication. Much of her work took place quietly behind the scenes, yet its impact has been felt across every ministry of the Kirk.

“Every season of the church is built upon the faithfulness of those who have gone before us,” said Rev. Dr. Estevez. “We give thanks to God for the extraordinary leaders who have served this congregation so faithfully, and we rejoice in those whom God is now calling to lead us into the future. We are deeply grateful for the foundation that has been laid and excited to discover all that God has in store for the Kirk in the Hills.”

As Kirk in the Hills continues its Charting the Course process of discernment and renewal, these leadership transitions represent more than staffing changes. They reflect a shared commitment to faithfully steward the church’s mission, invest in the spiritual formation of every generation, and respond with courage and hope to God’s call.

As the Kirk looks toward the horizon, the congregation does so with confidence—not because every destination is already known, but because Christ remains at the helm. Guided by the Holy Spirit, strengthened by faithful leaders past and present, and united in a shared commitment to God’s mission, Kirk in the Hills continues to set its sails toward the future with faith, courage, and hope.

“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.” ~ Ephesians 3:20–21