Ocean City Tabernacle Executive Director Tom Sherf
The Ocean City Tabernacle, a hub of religious and community activity dating back to Ocean City’s founding as a Christian seaside retreat nearly 150 years ago, announced the appointment of a new leader.
Tom Sherf, who will serve as the Tabernacle’s executive director, brings over two decades of leadership experience in Christian higher education and ministry, including his most recent role as vice president of marketing and enrollment at Cairn University, a Christian college in Langhorne, Pa.
“I am honored to steward the rich legacy of the Ocean City Tabernacle and to partner with our community as we build new pathways for people to experience the transforming power of the Gospel,” Sherf said in a news release announcing his appointment. “With God’s help and the support of our friends, we can continue to create environments where faith and community thrive together.”
Sherf’s connection to the Tabernacle began more than a decade ago at Ocean City’s Moorlyn Theatre, where a worship team from Cairn University served.
Inspired by leaders such as former Tabernacle president and CEO Dick Stanislaw, Sherf said that experience left an indelible mark and shaped his vision for ministry.
As executive director, he said he is committed to strengthening the Tabernacle’s existing programs, expanding opportunities for youth and families, and “ensuring the timeless truths of the Gospel meet contemporary needs.”
Sherf now joins generations of leaders, volunteers and friends that have shaped a ministry “deeply rooted in scripture and actively engaged with the needs of Ocean City and beyond,” the release says.
“From concerts that stir the soul and youth programs that shape lives, to the renowned Summer Speaker Series that inspires thousands each year, the Tabernacle continues to shine as a legacy of faith and service,” it added.
The Ocean City Tabernacle is located at 550 Wesley Ave. Sherf takes his position as the Tabernacles prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary. The nondenominational Christian church has stood as a gathering place where worship, community and service intersect.
“As the Ocean City Tabernacle nears its 150th anniversary, we enter a pivotal season of honoring our legacy while advancing our mission to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and serve our community. Tom Sherf’s extensive leadership in Christian organizations uniquely positions him to guide transformative programming, steward complex operations, and nurture the warm, Christ-centered spirit at the heart of our ministry,” said Gena Willard, president of the Tabernacle’s board of trustees.
The Tabernacle was founded by Methodist ministers Ezra B. Lake, James Lake, S. Wesley Lake and William Burrell, who established Ocean City in 1879 as a Christian seaside retreat.
Over the years, the Tabernacle has grown to offer year-round concerts, pre-school and after-school programs and other activities in addition to seasonal worship services.
The Tabernacle is inviting the community to pray, partner and invest in shaping the next chapter of its history as it prepares for its 150th anniversary celebration, the release says.
