After 26 years, Leo and Suzanne Hanssen are ready to embark on the next stage and season of their lives and know that now is the right time to welcome the fresh energy and vision their son André, and his wife Elly, will bring to the congregation.

Thought was first given to André and Elly becoming Majestic’s next leaders some time ago. The leadership team, including Leo and Suzanne, are working alongside them to make sure there is a smooth transition into this senior leadership role. 

This year, Majestic Church celebrates 60 incredible years since it was opened as the New Life Centre by pastors Peter and Anne Morrow. It is a remarkable testament to the strength of the church that André and Elly will be only the third senior leaders in its 60-year history.

André has been involved with Majestic for most of his life, and Elly for more than 16 years. As many of you will know, they run Swarm Studios in Brisbane and Los Angeles, as well as the studio here in Christchurch. They will continue to divide their time between Los Angeles and Christchurch. 

At Majestic Church services on 20 March 2022, Leo said he and Suzanne were looking forward to starting a new stage in their lives. “Suzanne and I feel very privileged to have led Majestic for 26 years, and I am confident that Majestic will continue to faithfully serve the community and inspire future generations. We give André and Elly our love and very best wishes as they transition to become the new leaders of our church.”

André and Elly will continue to grow a new generation of leaders and have many exciting initiatives to implement in the future. They say one of their main goals is to empower all people in the church community to build their talents and live out their purpose.