I’m New

I have been blessed to be pastor of First Baptist Church since June of 2014. Prior to serving in Lithonia, my wife and I were church planters in Western Pennsylvania. I received my Graduate of Theology degree from the Liberty Bible Institute and both a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical studies and a Master of Divinity from Luther Rice Seminary. I am so thankful to have my wife Barbara by my side as we serve the Lord together. We have been blessed with four grown children: Jim, Jake/Robin, Jona/Micah, and Joe/Christa. The joy of our lives is our ten grandchildren!

My hobbies include camping, hiking, reading a good book, an occasional round of golf, home projects and spending time with the family. I am so grateful that the Lord called me out of darkness, set my feet on solid ground, and continues to give me opportunities to work His fields.

I have been a member of First Baptist Church of Lithonia since 1956, and have worked in the church office since 1983 (part-time for three years ad full-time since March, 1986). Every job I had prior to 1983 prepared me for the many various tasks associated with serving and working in the church office. In 1983 I wanted to go in one direction for employment, but God had His plans for me. I cannot imagine working anywhiere else than where I am now.

When I am not at the church working or participating in various events, I enjoy reading, mostly mysteries and Christian fiction. Yard work is appealing only in cool weather. I love cats, the ocean, and lighthouses. My immediate family consists of my 93-year old mother, a son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren The church family at FBC makes up the rest.

Bethany, a native of Lithonia, GA, attended Truett-McConnell College, Shorter University, and Grand Canyon University. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Education. Bethany performed with many ensembles and choirs during her time as a college student including the TMC Singers, TMC Chorale, Majesty, Cleveland Community Chorale, Shorter Chorus, African Drummers, and Community Theatre. Bethany has taught music in DeKalb County and Newton County Schools for 11 years, and where she continues to teach preschool music. Bethany has been on staff at FBCL since 2008. Bethany is married to Colby, a native of Dunwoody, GA and they have two children, Andrew, who is four and Aaron who is almost one.

Janie Wells grew up in Lithonia First Baptist and has served as Organist since 1959. Her husband is George, and they have a daughter and two sons and five granddaughters. She studied piano and organ with a private teacher. Music has always been a very important part of her life. She feels very blessed and thankful to be a part of this church family and to serve the Lord in this ministry.

Marva Kay Steward has been an active member of the church since 1985. She began serving as pianist in 2008. Although she does not hold a music degree, she has a true passion for piano and particularly enjoys playing Southern Gospel tunes. She counts it a privilege to serve her Heavenly Father and church family in this position. She and her husband, Tommy, have been married 41 years and have three adult children and two grandchildren. She was an elementary school teacher for 43 years, and retired in 2014. She enjoys reading, mission work, traveling, entertaining, and spending time with her precious grandchildren.