2026 Succession
As Fox River is stepping into 2026 ‘by faith,’ Pastor Guy and his wife Denise have prayerfully discerned, along with the Elders, that this is the right time for a leadership transition. This is not a sudden decision, but rather a process of three years in the making. This is not about stepping away from the mission — it’s about stepping into the next season of how God is leading Fox River.
a message from
Pastor Guy Conn
Pastor Guy announced his intention to step out of the Lead Pastor role and into the role of Founding Pastor, moving from “spiritual father” to “spiritual grandfather” of Fox River.
Pastor Guy & Pastor Bill share the results of the Lead Pastor Affirmation Vote, held on February 28 and March 1, 2026, and the next steps of Fox River’s 2026 Succession.
Pastor bill gunderson
Elder Council Recommended Lead Pastor Candidate
The Elders spent much time learning, praying, and seeking God’s leading over the last three years for the next Lead Pastor at Fox River as Pastor Guy moves to the Founding Pastor Role. We are thrilled that God answered our prayers!
Bill Gunderson, the candidate unanimously chosen by the Elder Board to move us forward into the next season of leadership at Fox River:
- Became a Christian at age 19
- Baptized through Believers Baptism September 2003
- Married for 21 years
- Has 4 children (ages 21, 20, 18, 12)
- Favorite drink is a honey latte!
- Staff Sergeant in the US Army as a Chaplain Assistant 1999-2007
- Village of Mukwonago Police & Fire Chaplain 2024-Present
- Ordained on 2/22/2020
Education Degrees
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics, 2003, UW-Milwaukee
- Master of Arts in Teaching, 2005, Aurora University
- Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry, 2019, Liberty University
Fox River Christian Church
- Worship Team 2003-2017
- High School Student Ministry Pastor 2012-2017
- Teaching Pastor 2014-Present
- Online Campus Pastor 2018-2023
- North Campus Pastor 2023-Present
Succession FAQs
Check out these questions to get more information on the succession!
Why is this transition happening?
Pastor Guy and his wife Denise have prayerfully discerned, along with the Elders, that this is the right time for a leadership transition.This is not a sudden decision, but rather a process of three years in the making. This is not about stepping away from the mission — it’s about stepping into the next season of how God is leading Fox River.
Is Pastor Guy leaving Fox River?
No. Pastor Guy is not retiring or leaving Fox River Christian Church, but will be shifting to the role of Founding Pastor. The heart of this transition is continuity, not departure. The Founding Pastor role honors and continues the legacy of Pastor Guy by using his gifts in the areas of teaching, coaching, leadership development, and missions. This role is designed to be supportive and collaborative, ensuring alignment with the vision and direction of Fox River under the leadership of the Lead Pastor.
Is this purely a change in title?
No, Pastor Guy is stepping out of the Lead Pastor role and into the supportive role of the Founding Pastor. The Elders will be nominating a new Lead Pastor on January 17 & 18.
What will change and what will stay the same?
The mission, vision, and values that have guided Fox River Christian Church from the beginning will remain the same. What will change is who carries the day-to-day leadership responsibilities.
How will the new Lead Pastor be chosen?
If you cannot attend a Fox River in-person service the weekend of February 28th & March 1st, and wish to vote, we ask that you join Fox River via livestream on March 1 at 9am to vote.
If you cannot attend in person or via livestream the weekend of February 28th & March 1st and wish to vote, please email elders@foxriverchristian.org
If you are unsure of your membership status, please email info@foxriverchristian.org
If you would like to become a member, attend a membership meeting happening:
Jan 25: South Campus Membership Dinner & Baptism Info Meeting
Feb 1: All Campuses:
South: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Muskego: Immediately following the 9:30a Service
North: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Feb 4 – Virtual Membership Meeting Option
Feb 22: South Campus Membership Dinner [RSVP]
Where can I find out more about the recommended Lead Pastor?
Fox River Succession Q+A: Forward Gatherings will take place:
Muskego Campus: February 2nd at 6:00p
North Campus: February 15th at 4:00p
South Campus: February 22nd at 4:00p
This will be a time to hear from both Pastor Guy and the recommended Lead Pastor. Succession Q+A: Forward Gatherings are open to all Fox River attendees and will be approximately an hour, and will include time for Q+A.
Where can I read the Constitution of Fox River Christian Church?
The Constitution can be found here
When will the transition take place?
The planned transition and official commissioning service will take place during services May 2 & 3, 2026.
When will the celebration for Pastor Guy and Denise take place?
The celebration for Pastor Guy and Denise will take place across all campuses the weekend of April 25/26.
How should we as a congregation respond?
First, pray — for Pastor Guy, the Elders, the Staff, the Future Lead Pastor, and for continued unity in our church. For an intentional plan, join 21 Days of Prayer.
Second, celebrate — this is a sign of God’s faithfulness and the best is yet to come!
And third, stay engaged — your involvement and encouragement are key to a healthy, strong transition.
Take part in the vote happening February 28th & March 1st to affirm the new Lead Pastor.
All Fox River Members will be invited to vote on the new Lead Pastor recommendation during services on February 28th & March 1st.
According to the Fox River Christian Church Constitution, a quorom of 33% of members must be present to vote. The final vote must consist of 66% member affirmation of the recommended new Lead Pastor.
If you cannot attend a Fox River in-person service the weekend of February 28th & March 1st, and wish to vote, we ask that you join Fox River via livestream on March 1 at 9am to vote.
If you are unsure of your membership status, fill out the Membership Status Form
If you would like to become a member, attend a membership meeting happening:
Jan 25: South Campus Membership Dinner & Baptism Info Meeting
Feb 1: All Campuses:
South: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Muskego: Immediately following the 9:30a Service
North: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Feb 4 – Virtual Membership Meeting Option
Feb 22: South Campus Membership Dinner [RSVP]
How can we stay informed throughout the transition?
We’ll keep the church family updated through regular weekend announcements, emails, and the website: foxriverchristian.org
How can we honor Pastor Guy & Denise during this season?
You can honor them through prayer, encouragement, and gratitude. Write a note, send an email, or share a story about how their leadership has impacted your life. Your words mean more than you know! Email at pastorguy@foxriverchristian.org
Who should I talk to if I have questions or concerns?
How old does one have to be to be a member at Fox River?
18-years-old
When will the Lead Pastor vote take place?
All Fox River Members will be invited to vote on the new Lead Pastor recommendation during services on February 28th & March 1st.
According to the Fox River Christian Church Constitution, a quorum of 33% of members must be present to vote. The final vote must consist of 66% member affirmation of the recommended new lead pastor.
If you cannot attend a Fox River in-person service the weekend of February 28th & March 1st, and wish to vote, we ask that you join Fox River via livestream on March 1 at 9am to vote.
If you cannot attend in person of via livestream the weekend of February 28th & March 1st and wish to vote, please email elders@foxriverchristian.org
If you are unsure of your membership status, find out here: https://foxriver.cc/check
If you would like to become a member, attend a membership meeting happening:
Jan 25: South Campus Membership Dinner & Baptism Info Meeting
Feb 1: All Campuses:
South: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Muskego: Immediately following the 9:30a Service
North: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Feb 4 – Virtual Membership Meeting Option
Feb 22: South Campus Membership Dinner [RSVP]
Who can take part in the Lead Pastor vote?
The entire Fox River congregation will be invited to vote on the new Lead Pastor recommendation during services on February 28th & March 1st.
According to the Fox River Christian Church Constitution, a quorum of 33% of members must be present to vote. The final vote must consist of 66% member affirmation of the recommended new lead pastor.
If you cannot attend a Fox River in-person service the weekend of February 28th & March 1st, and wish to vote, we ask that you join Fox River via livestream on March 1 at 9am to vote.
If you cannot attend in person of via livestream the weekend of February 28th & March 1st and wish to vote, please email elder@foxriverchristian.org
If you are unsure of your membership status, find out here: https://foxriver.cc/check
If you would like to become a member, attend a membership meeting happening:
Jan 25: South Campus Membership Dinner & Baptism Info Meeting
Feb 1: All Campuses:
South: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Muskego: Immediately following the 9:30a Service
North: Immediately following the 10:30a Service
Feb 4 – Virtual Membership Meeting Option
Feb 22: South Campus Membership Dinner [RSVP]
Were any external candidates considered for the Lead Pastor position?
From the beginning, the Elder Council sought a consultant who specializes in guiding large churches through Lead Pastor succession. He provided counsel and support throughout the process. The recommended approach was to first prayerfully evaluate any internal candidate, especially given our confidence in the overall direction and health of Fox River.
Guided by the consultant, the Elders developed a clear profile of the qualities and leadership we believe are needed in Fox River’s next Lead Pastor. Based on that profile, we invited our internal candidate, Pastor Bill Gunderson, to step into the discernment process. Through prayer, evaluation, and ongoing conversations, we became confident that he is God’s leading choice for Fox River at this time.
As a result, the Elders did not believe it was necessary to pursue external candidates to present to the church.
More Questions?
Please contact the Fox River Elder Council with additional questions about the 2026 Succession at elders@foxriverchristian.org
