In October 2024, the Session of Highlands Presbyterian Church announced that Rev. Dr. Earl Bland would serve as our transitional pastor while the HPC Pulpit Search Committee looks for a permanent pastor.

Dr. Bland has been serving Presbyterian congregations in the pastoral ministry since 1986. He recently retired from Charleston Presbyterian Church after serving 10 years there. His academic credentials are noteworthy having completed in 1992 a Doctor of Ministry; and after a rigorous training program, he became a certified Transitional Pastor. During his time in ministry, he has served in Kentucky, North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia and South Carolina.

Dr. Bland’s primary duties include proclaiming God’s Word and leading Sunday Worship, celebrating Communion, visitation, and serving in a consulting role on the Pastor Search Team. He will also conduct a “New Members” class in the coming months.

Earl is married to Laura, who retired in November 2024 after serving for 25 years as the Controller of a local family business. They have 5 children and 6 grandchildren. Earl enjoys classic cars, Laura enjoys cooking and gardening and they both enjoy travel.