“In the twists and turns of our journey, Jesus has always been faithful.”
On their wedding day, Jonathan and Mary had Psalm 16:8 printed on the program: “We have set the Lord always before us. Because he is at our right hand, we will not be shaken.” Today, they testify to the enduring truth of that Scripture. In the joys and sorrows, Jesus has been faithful and full of grace. In a world of insecurity and brokenness, His promises are a firm foundation—“We will not be shaken.”
Dr. Jonathan Schaeffer was elected the thirteenth president of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in May 2025 and is grateful to be part of a family of almost 2,000 churches reaching out locally and globally.
For 25+ years, Jonathan served as lead pastor at Grace Church, a multi-campus, multi-ethnic church on the southwest side of Cleveland, which launched several additional churches in that region. His journey with Jesus began in elementary school when he was shaken by the death of another boy his age . . . and ultimately discovered the joy of life in Christ. The sixth of nine children, Jonathan frequently expresses gratitude for the gift of parents who lived with integrity and spiritual passion, and he credits their example as a catalyst for his spiritual growth. He completed studies at Capernwray Bible School (certificate), Columbia International University (BA, MA), Alliance Theological Seminary (MDiv), and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (DMin).
Mary’s spiritual journey took a dramatic turn in university when her eyes were opened to the reality of Jesus’ love for her. That began a journey of joy and freedom and healing that continues today. A gifted Bible teacher, she finds great fulfillment in pointing others to the wonders of the God who loves us and speaks to us in His Word. Mary completed a degree in nursing at Rockland Community College and obtained a BA in Bible teaching at Columbia International University.
Jonathan and Mary live in Columbus, Ohio, and travel frequently to serve the Alliance family. They get a front-row seat to the great variety of ways Jesus is working through faithful followers to bring about transformation in individual lives and communities. Jonathan recently stated, “It’s inspiring to see so many Alliance people taking seriously the promise of Galatians 6:9—‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.’ A harvest of eternal impact is already happening, and our prayer is that—together as an Alliance family—we will continue to pursue the mission of Jesus with passion and devotion until He comes again.”
Jonathan and Mary enjoy hiking and especially visiting the beach or a national park with their adult children, children-in-law, and grandchildren. The aim of their lives is simply this: growing in love for the Lord Jesus and for people who matter so much to Him…here and around the world.