Jon Thaddeus Harless

Senior Pastor, author and former adjunct leadership/seminary professor and founder of Striking The Water Ministries. Organizational leader with over 20 years of ministry experience leading churches ranging from revitalization contexts to multi-site congregations exceeding 1,000 in attendance. Proven track record in strategic growth, debt elimination, multi-campus leadership, and community engagement.

PhD-trained leader with strengths in expository preaching, leadership development, and organizational transformation and effectiveness. Experienced in building high-capacity teams, expanding outreach impact, and leading churches through seasons of growth and transition.

Lead Pastor at Real Life Church (2025-01 – Present)

• Leading church through re-visioning and revitalization process
• Led church into top 2% of churches in New Mexico by attendance within first year
• Oversaw 100+ baptisms in first year of leadership
• Implemented strategic outreach initiatives resulting in measurable community engagement
• Achieved 7% growth rate within first year

Lead Pastor at Cornerstone Church (2021-01 – 2025-01)

• Led multi-site church (1000 attendance across campuses and services) through strategic growth and campus multiplication
• Eliminated $1.8M in debt, positioning church for long-term financial health
• Expanded to 5 services across 2 campuses, including launch of additional service and livestream infrastructure
• Oversaw $250K facility upgrade to enhance worship environment
• Directed outreach initiatives reaching 2,500+ community participants
• Led 120+ conversions in one year (70+ baptisms)
• Developed and expanded care ministries, including Celebrate Recovery and prison reentry programs
• Directed over $200K in missions giving and global engagement efforts

Lead Pastor at New Life Church (2015-01 – 2020-01)

• Led successful church revitalization including organizational restructuring and leadership realignment
• Acquired $1.6M property for $450K, significantly strengthening church assets
• Guided church to debt-free status (2019)
• Launched major outreach initiatives serving 3,000+ community members
• Oversaw multi-campus expansion and facility redevelopment projects
• Established partnerships with universities and community leaders for ministry and educational initiatives
• Directed international mission efforts across multiple continents

Adjunct Professor at Carolina University (2013-01 – 2020-01)

• Taught graduate and doctoral-level leadership and ministry courses
• Served as dissertation chair and committee member for PhD candidates
• Developed curriculum and facilitated online learning environments
• Specialized in leadership, research methods, organizational development, and ministry strategy

PhD in Leadership – Carolina University

Doctor of Ministry in Expository & Evangelistic Preaching – Liberty University

ThM in Biblical Studies – Liberty University

MDiv / MAR in Church Ministries – Liberty University

BA in Theology – Belmont University