Pastor J.D. Greear
Pastor at The Summit Church
I moved to the Triangle with my wife in 2001. As recent college and doctoral school graduates, the area appealed to us with its large number of upwardly mobile young entrepreneurs and reputation as an “education hub.” Few places are more strategic than RDU if you want to make an impact on the world. Plus it’s a great place to raise a family!
My advice for newcomers is to check out all of the local college sports. Basketball, football, baseball, and hockey – we got it all.
The Summit Church, where I am the Pastor, has a vision to “love God, love each other, and love our world.” We believe that people are unhappy in life when there is a void in their heart where God’s love should be. We find love for others, our families, and ourselves by following the teachings of Jesus.
At the Summit Church we want to be known for what we are for not what we are against. We are committed to outreach in the darkest areas of our city – the homeless, orphans, unwed mothers, prisoners, and at-risk teens. We believe this fulfills our vision to bless the community. As we say around the Summit, “Stay where you are; serve where you live; let’s be the church in your community.”
My top tip for success is to establish priorities. Clearly define what success is and don’t let others do that for you. Our favorite things to do in the Triangle are to go to NCAA basketball games and to take walks through Umstead Park. Our favorite restaurants are the Angus Barn in Raleigh, Dame’s Chicken and Waffles in Durham, and Tribeca Tavern in Cary.
