Jonathan Schaeffer

Dr. Jonathan Schaeffer is grateful to be of an Alliance family that is reaching out locally and globally. Elected the thirteenth president of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in May 2025, he previously served for 25+ years as lead pastor of Grace Church, a multicampus, multiethnic church on Cleveland’s southwest side that has launched several churches in the region.

It was in elementary school that Jonathan’s journey with Jesus began, and he credits his parents’ integrity and spiritual passion as deeply formative influences. He completed studies at Capernwray Bible School (certificate), Columbia International University (BA, MA), Alliance Theological Seminary (MDiv), and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (DMin). 

The Schaeffers thank the Lord for their five adult children, three of whom are married—with four grandkids and counting. Their home is in Columbus, Ohio, but Jonathan and Mary travel frequently to spend time with the Alliance family. They’ve been encouraged and blessed as they’ve seen God at work in and through so many different people who are pursuing the mission of Jesus with passion and devotion until He comes again.