Pastor Dudley

Dudley Rutherford, Lead Pastor

As the lead pastor of Shepherd Church, Dudley Rutherford is passionate about preaching God’s Word without compromise, leading people to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ, and lifting Him up that the world might believe. He is the founder of Dream of Destiny, which empowers leaders to cultivate unity and diversity in Christian churches and colleges. His sermons are broadcast nationwide on the weekly “Lift Up Jesus” television program through the GEB Network and DirectTV, and his most recently published book is called, “Compelled: The Irresistible Call to Share Your Faith.”  

Dudley began his ministry in the Midwest and moved to Northridge, California in 1987 to become the pastor of Hillcrest Christian Church. In 1995, Hillcrest merged with Shepherd of the Hills and became the present-day Shepherd Church. Today, the church has grown to 12,000 people with 10 different worship services each weekend across four locations in the Greater Los Angeles area. Shepherd Church has been called “the most racially diverse church in Los Angeles” by the city’s mayor. 

Dudley is a blessed husband and father of three. Though he is a Midwesterner by birth, he is a Southern Californian at heart with his love for cycling, the beach, sushi, Mexican food, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the UCLA Bruins. But none of these compare to his love for Jesus and leading others to a personal relationship with Him! To learn more or to connect with Dudley on social media, visit LiftUpJesus.com