Emmanuel Baptist Church, Paulding, Ohio, called Garrett Atkins as pastor. He was previously a commercial beekeeper in his family’s business for 10 years. While working in the beeyards he spent countless hours listening to an audio Bible, theology podcasts, and sermons.
“The Lord gave Garrett a desire to share the truths of Scripture with others, with a particular burden for discipleship and Biblical counseling,” the church says.
Garrett has now finished his first year of theological education, completed certification with the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors, and participated in a church’s pastoral residency program while serving as director of ministry operations.
Garrett says he “is committed to the faithful preaching of Scripture, to prayer, and to shepherding the flock through relational discipleship and Biblical counseling.” The church “looks forward to serving as a light for Jesus Christ in the Paulding community.”
