First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood (PCUSA) in Los Angeles, California, has called a PCA pastor to serve as its next senior minister. Pastor J.T. Tarter has been serving as pastor of Capital Presbyterian Church Herndon (PCA) for the last two years in Herndon, Virginia. Last week, the PCUSA congregation in Hollywood elected Tarter to be its next senior pastor.

The Hollywood congregation is known for the influential ministry of Henrietta Mears who pioneered a Sunday School program in the early 20th century that grew to 4,000 in attendance. The church nurtured the faith of many evangelical leaders including Richard Halverson and Bill Bright. The church is part of The Fellowship Community, a group of evangelical congregations in the PCUSA.

McLean Presbyterian Church is the mother church of Tarter’s current congregation. Regarding Tarter’s new call, McLean Presbyterian states on their website,

While we recognize God’s call and timing, we are sad to see the Tarters leave. J.T. has served on our church staff for over seven years and launched Capital Pres Herndon two years ago. Under his leadership and with the help of his gifted staff and elected leaders, Capital Pres Herndon has grown into a vibrant congregation with dynamic ministries that both serve its people and reach its community.

Tarter is scheduled to begin his new position on February 18, 2025.