The Board of Directors of the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) has unanimously nominated Rev. Carlton P. Harris to serve as the next president of the denomination, following a comprehensive two-year search process. The formal affirmation vote by credentialed delegates is scheduled to take place during the business session at the 2027 EFCA One Conference. The nomination marks a significant leadership transition for one of the largest free church denominations in the world, representing more than 1,500 congregations across the United States.
Harris has been serving as Acting President of the EFCA since 2024, when former President Kevin Kompelien accepted a call to serve as the 17th President of Trinity International University. Harris previously held the role of Executive Vice President of National Ministries, giving him extensive experience in the denomination's domestic church planting and leadership development work. The EFCA presidential term is six years, and the Board expressed full confidence that Harris "is the man God has called to serve the EFCA as its President," while acknowledging that the election must be confirmed by a three-fourths majority of credentialed delegates at the biennial General Conference, in accordance with the EFCA Bylaws.
The presidential search process, approved in September 2025, included the development of a comprehensive presidential profile covering personal characteristics, leadership qualities, key commitments, and preferred qualifications. Input was gathered from church leaders, district superintendents, ReachNational and ReachGlobal representatives, and current and former board members. The Board noted that Harris completed a full application with in-person interviews, and that two years of firsthand experience with his leadership provided valuable insight into his suitability for the role. The Board stated: "The explicit process was invaluable in gaining clarity on fit, calling, and conviction." The EFCA traces its roots to the Scandinavian free church movement and remains a key member of the International Federation of Free Evangelical Churches (IFFEC).
Source: Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) — efca.org
