Rev. Thomas Daniel Takes Helm at Highland Park Presbyterian Church
Highland Park Presbyterian Church in Dallas, Texas, has ushered in a new era with the appointment of Rev. Thomas Daniel as senior pastor. This decision comes almost two years after the unexpected passing of beloved former pastor Bryan Dunagan.
Chosen unanimously by the Pastor Nominating Committee and confirmed through a congregational vote, Daniel’s appointment was announced last Sunday. His arrival marks a significant transition for the historic church, which has been a pillar in the community for nearly a century.
In a heartfelt letter to the congregation, Daniel conveyed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead, expressing that he is “humbled and honored” to serve HP Pres. He noted, “As my wife, Beth, and I met with the Pastor Nominating Committee, prayed about this opportunity, and sat with trusted friends and mentors who have guided us, it has become abundantly clear that God is calling us to join you all in Dallas and we are filled with gratitude and excitement for what the Lord has in store!”
With over 25 years of ministry experience, Daniel has previously led Covenant Presbyterian Church in Austin for nearly 12 years. Originally from Atlanta, he holds degrees from Davidson College, Columbia Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry. His wife, Rev. Beth Daniel, contributes to The Ministry Collaborative, a national leadership development organization for pastors. They have two daughters currently attending Baylor University.
Reflecting on his ties to HP Pres, Daniel shared, “Your congregation has been close to my heart for many years and has certainly been in my prayers since Bryan Dunagan’s death. Bryan was a good friend of mine for almost 20 years, starting when we were both Associate Pastors in Atlanta. I understand the honor of following him as the Senior Pastor of Highland Park Presbyterian Church.”
Daniel’s vision for HP Pres is built on his extensive ministry background, aiming to engage new generations with creative approaches to sharing the Gospel. “I have planted a congregation and witnessed the amazing ways that God engages new generations when we think creatively about how to share the Gospel,” he said. He emphasized the importance of becoming a “Love Letter from God to our neighbors” and acknowledged how past experiences have prepared him for this role.
Established in 1926, HP Pres is a part of the Evangelical Covenant Order of Presbyterians (ECO). The church has been on a search for new leadership since Dunagan’s unexpected death in October 2023, when he passed away at age 44 from natural causes, leaving behind his wife and three children.
Dunagan is remembered fondly as a “gifted communicator and a humble servant leader” who greatly impacted the church and community during his nine-year tenure, including the founding of community churches such as Peak Street Church, Grace Church Lake Highlands, and Good Shepherd Oak Cliff.
A January 2024 statement from HP Pres provided more details on Dunagan’s passing, revealing that he was taking Tramadol and sertraline, which, combined with alcohol, resulted in an unexpected cardiac or pulmonary event.
As HP Pres approaches its centennial celebration in 2026, Daniel expresses optimism about the future, highlighting the church’s longstanding dedication to the Gospel and Christian leadership. Kelsey Phillips, co-moderator of the Pastor Nominating Committee, commented on the selection process: “After more than a year of prayer, discernment, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, our church is thrilled to welcome Rev. Dr. Thomas Daniel as our new senior pastor.” Phillips added that Daniel’s leadership will guide HP Pres into its next century of service.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
