Covenant Life Church: A Comprehensive Guide

About Covenant Life Church

Covenant Life Church (CLC) is a Presbyterian church in Gaithersburg, Maryland, with a distinctive theological and practical approach. Founded in 1988 by Pastor C.J. Mahaney, CLC emphasizes expository preaching, biblical counseling, and a commitment to community and outreach.

Core Beliefs

• Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone): CLC believes that the Bible is the sole infallible and authoritative source of God’s revelation.
• Sola Fide (Faith Alone): Salvation is by faith alone in the finished work of Jesus Christ, apart from any human merit or effort.
• Sola Gratia (Grace Alone): God’s grace is the only means by which sinners can be saved and transformed.
• Calvinist Soteriology: CLC adheres to a Calvinistic understanding of salvation, including the doctrines of total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, and irresistible grace.

Ministries

CLC offers a wide range of ministries for all ages and stages of life:

Small Groups

CLC believes that the body of Christ is best experienced in small, intimate groups where people can grow in their faith, support one another, and live out their calling.

Biblical Counseling

CLC provides biblical counseling services to individuals and families seeking help with a variety of life challenges, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and spiritual doubts.

Outreach Programs

CLC is actively involved in local and global outreach programs, including:

• Partnership with the Center for Urban Renewal & Education (CURE)
• Support for mission work in Asia, Africa, and Latin America
• Community service initiatives

Leadership

C.J. Mahaney

C.J. Mahaney served as the founding pastor of CLC for over 20 years. He is known for his expository preaching and his emphasis on biblical counseling. In 2011, he stepped down from his role at CLC due to allegations of mishandling and covering up sexual abuse within the church.

Current Leadership

CLC is currently led by a team of elders and pastors, including:

• Dave Short
• Doug Logan
• Wills Spenser
• Matt Schilling

Controversies

CLC has been involved in several controversies over the years, including:

Sexual Abuse Allegations

In 2011, C.J. Mahaney was accused of mishandling and covering up sexual abuse within the church. An independent investigation confirmed some of these allegations, leading to Mahaney’s resignation. CLC has since adopted new policies and procedures to prevent and respond to abuse.

Authoritarian Culture

Some former members have claimed that CLC fostered an authoritarian culture that discouraged dissent and imposed strict rules on members’ behavior.

Financial Practices

CLC has also been criticized for its financial practices, including high salaries for its leaders and opaque financial reporting.

Conclusion

Covenant Life Church is a complex and multifaceted organization. While it has a strong commitment to biblical teaching and discipleship, it has also faced controversies and criticisms. It is important to carefully consider all aspects of CLC before making a decision about whether or not to become involved with the church.

Visit the Covenant Life Church website
Read a report on the sexual abuse allegations