Emmanuel Baptist Church (EBC) in Paulding is excited to welcome Garrett Atkins as their pastor. In May of 2024, Garrett began to regularly fill-in preaching at EBC. On October 27th, 2024 the church members voted to appoint him as their full-time pastor. Garrett is committed to the faithful preaching of Scripture, to prayer, and to shepherding the flock through relational discipleship and biblical counseling. EBC looks forward to serving as a light for Jesus Christ in the Paulding community.
Garrett had a rather unconventional journey to the pastorate. He grew up in the Paulding area and worked as a commercial beekeeper in the family business for over ten years. While working in beeyards, Garrett spent hundreds of hours listening to an audio Bible, theological podcasts, and countless sermons. The Lord gave Garrett a desire to share the truths of Scripture with others, with a particular burden for discipleship and biblical counseling. After several years of study, he completed his certification with the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC) in March 2024. He also finished his first year of theological education. Garrett previously served on staff at King’s Cross Church in Defiance, OH as the Director of Ministry Operations and as a pastoral resident.
Garrett is supported in his ministry work by his wife, Rachel. They were married in 2018. The Lord has blessed the Atkins’ with two daughters: Keturah (5) and Adira (3). Garrett and Rachel are looking forward to serving the Lord together, by His grace and for His glory.
Emmanuel Baptist Church is located at 1275 Emerald Road. Sunday worship gathering begins at 10:45am, with a prior Sunday school time at 9:30 a.m. They also meet for a weekly Wednesday night prayer meeting at 6:30 p.m.
