Tim Bates
Pastor
We are excited to have Bro. Tim as our Pastor here at Southside. He is married to Hope and they have five children: Mac, Andrew, Powers, Peter, and Kansas. Bro. Tim received his Doctorate of Ministry in Church Revitalization and his Masters of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He has been in ministry for over twenty years, including seventeen years of youth and children’s ministry. Tim is an artist, loves comic books and Christian music, plays the guitar, and is passionate about Jesus and helping others grow in their faith! His favorite Bible verse is Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
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Eric Smith
Worship Leader
We are blessed to have Bro. Eric lead worship bi-vocationally at Southside Baptist Church for the past six years! His philosophy is that the purpose of music ministry is to point others to Jesus. To that end we utilize music, to lead others in worshiping Him, and to encourage others by the Word of God. To accomplish our mission, we have multiple opportunities for musical participation here at Southside. Among these are Praise Team, Praise Band, and Sanctuary choir, along with youth and children's choirs as well. Whether it is through participation in one of our groups or just joining in congregational singing, we invite all whom the Lord has given "a song" to join us as we Worship Him! Eric has been married to his wife, Melanie Thomas Smith, for the past 18 years. They have 3 children: Kati, Ben, and Kali. He received a BS from the University of Alabama in 1995 and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts Degree in Theological Studies at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. His favorite Bible verses are Jude 24 and 25.
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E-MAIL ERIC
Shelley Bartlett
Children's Ministry Director
Shelley is doing a phenomenal job of leading the children's ministry at Southside. She has a rich history of leading both in churches and in scouting. She is currently the local American Heritage Girls director. Shelley has three children and two grand-children.
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Mac Bates
Youth Minister
Mac has been in youth ministry his whole life. Growing up with his dad in youth ministry, he has seen the ins and outs. Now, with his own call to ministry, he is pursuing his first ministry position and is serving alongside his dad. Mac is currently a student at Troy University and loves movies, music, comic books, and good food.
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