In February 2026, Highlands Presbyterian Church installed Rev. Dr. Earl Bland as our Senior 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, singing in the choir and visitation. He has conducted several “New Members” classes.

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.