J. Clif Christopher, President, CFRE

Clif founded the Horizons Stewardship Company in 1992 following a challenging career in pastoral ministry. He serves as the company’s CEO to this day. In his twenty years as a pastor, he led numerous major building and capital campaigns. Since founding Horizons, he has led consultations in over 400 churches, conferences, synods and diocese in all phases of building, finance, and church growth.

Dr. Christopher is a certified church growth consultant and has earned the coveted title CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive). In 1995 he was given the National Circuit Rider Award by the United Methodist Church for outstanding leadership in developing vital congregations.

Over the last 10 years, Clif has secured over 500 million dollars for his clients. He has personally worked in over 32 states and is a frequent speaker at stewardship seminars around the country. He is the co-author of the book Holy Smoke published by Discipleship Resources and is the author of Not Your Parents’ Offering Plate and Whose Offering Plate Is It? published by Abingdon Press. Dr. Bill Easum, noted consultant and author, said, “No one knows more about local church stewardship than Clif Christopher.” Mega church pastor, Adam Hamilton said, “When I have a stewardship question, I call Clif Christopher.” Foundation director, David Atkins said, “Clif is one of the most effective communicators in the field of church fundraising today.”

Clif has been an ordained minister of the United Methodist Church since 1975. He is married and shares four children with his wife. He is a graduate of Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas and Emory University.