Arbor Christian Fellowship Celebrates a Joyful Pastoral Luncheon as Final Step Toward Welcoming Pastor Jonathan Dignadice
Congregation gathers for a meaningful afternoon of fellowship, testimony, and Q&A as Arbor Christian Fellowship prepares to call its next Senior Pastor
In a joyful and meaningful gathering today, Arbor Christian Fellowship hosted a pastoral luncheon to honor and connect with Pastor Jonathan Dignadice, as the church family prepares to officially vote to call him as the new Senior Pastor. With warm fellowship, heartfelt testimony, and deep gratitude, the luncheon marked a pivotal moment in the life of a church that has faithfully served the Lake Forest community for 52 years.
Hosted in the fellowship hall and beautifully catered, the afternoon offered members of the congregation a chance to share a meal, laugh together, and personally engage with Pastor Jonathan and his wife, Ruth Dignadice, in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Pastor Jonathan shared his powerful personal story—how Christ reached him during a time of great promise and unexpected suffering.
Once a rising football player, Jonathan’s path was dramatically altered after an incident of temporary blindness shook his world. Through that trial, he encountered the grace of God in a life-changing way. In full surrender, he gave his life to Christ and committed himself entirely to gospel ministry.
His journey eventually led him to Ruth, the youngest daughter of Pastor Rudy, the founding pastor of El Toro Baptist Church International. Together, Jonathan and Ruth served in youth ministry and raised their four children—Levi, Isaiah, Rudie, and Sammy—while continuing to follow God’s call. Pastor Jonathan later became the Senior Pastor of ETBCI before stepping down temporarily to pursue a Master’s in Biblical Counseling, which he continues to use in his ministry today.
A Familiar and Faithful Shepherd
The Dignadice family, from left to right: Rudie, Levi, Pastor Jonathan, Sammy, Ruth, and Isaiah.
Though this may be an “official” welcome, Pastor Jonathan has already spent a year shepherding Arbor Christian Fellowship with steady faith and compassion. Stepping in to preach and care for the congregation during former Senior Pastor Dr. Danny Daniels’ final illness, Pastor Jonathan became a familiar and comforting presence—walking alongside the church through a season of grief and transition. He was a beloved friend to Pastor Danny and has continued to serve this church family with humility, warmth, and deep love for the Lord.
Open Conversation and Shared Vision
During the luncheon, Pastor Jonathan welcomed questions from the congregation. Members asked about his Biblical Counseling ministry, bi-vocational approach to leadership, and his vision for the church’s future. With clarity and conviction, Pastor Jonathan outlined the four key elements he believes will guide Arbor Christian Fellowship forward (from Acts 2:42):
Bible-Based, Sound Doctrine
Fellowship Rooted in Christ
Hospitality and Breaking Bread Together
Persistent Prayer
He also openly shared about his strengths and weaknesses, his leadership style, and the importance of authenticity and shared growth in the body of Christ. Ruth also joined the conversation, responding to questions from members of the congregation, reflecting their desire to know and support the Dignadice family as a whole.
Pastor Jonathan and Ruth expressed their clear calling to Arbor Christian Fellowship, referring to this new chapter as possibly their “final ministry assignment”—though the crowd smiled as it was noted that at 59, there is still plenty of time for the Lord to continue using them wherever He pleases.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
The afternoon ended in heartfelt prayer for Pastor Jonathan, Ruth, and their family, with gratitude to God for leading the church through this process. The Pastor Search Committee, having done its due diligence over the past year, has wholeheartedly recommended Pastor Jonathan for the role of Senior Pastor.
The official vote to confirm the pastoral call will take place during worship next Sunday, June 29, 2025. Members are encouraged to attend, pray, and support the man and family God has clearly brought to lead this church forward.
Arbor Christian Fellowship remains deeply thankful for God's faithfulness and provision—and excited for the future under Pastor Jonathan Dignadice's leadership.
