Gastonia church announces new leadership

Gaston Gazette
·1 min read
Rev. Dwayne Burks, with The Gateway Gaston, speaks during a a National Homeless Person’s Memorial Day Service held Wednesday morning, Dec. 21, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in Gastonia.
Rev. Dwayne Burks, with The Gateway Gaston, speaks during a a National Homeless Person’s Memorial Day Service held Wednesday morning, Dec. 21, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in Gastonia.

First Baptist Church Gastonia recently appointed two local leaders whose responsibilities will include guiding the congregation toward continued growth and community service.

A search committee, led by Chairman Jeff Worley, worked for over 18 months interviewing possible candidates from across the country.

Those efforts resulted in the selection of Rev. Dwayne Burks as senior pastor.

Burks, a seasoned director and chaplain at The Gateway, brings a wealth of experience in collaborating with individuals, houses of worship, businesses, nonprofits and governmental agencies to serve communities with dignity. A native of Hickory, he and his wife, Charlotte, have been an integral part of Gaston County since 1985. His ability to find common ground among diverse groups, coupled with over 25 years of relational experience across three continents, makes him a valuable addition to our church family, church leaders said in a press release.

Rev. Johnathan Bryson, a resident of Gastonia, assumes the role of associate pastor, with  a focus on community and strategic engagement at First Baptist. He is a graduate of Montreat College (BS Management) and Gardner Webb University (Masters of Divinity Intercultural Studies). Beyond his pastoral duties, Bryson actively contributes to the community by serving on the boards of Crisis Assistance Ministry and Gateway Gaston. Additionally, he leverages his expertise as a strategic management consultant for businesses, churches and nonprofits.

According to Jim Eddings, chair of diaconate, “Together, Rev. Dwayne Burks and Rev. Johnathan Bryson embody the spirit of unity, community engagement, and strategic leadership that First Baptist Church Gastonia holds dear.”

First Baptist Church, located at 2650 Union Road, has active members representing areas from all around Gaston County. Holding its first organizational meeting in May 1875 in a one-room store building, the church will celebrate 150 years in 2025.

Rev. Johnathan Bryson, a resident of Gastonia, will assume the role of associate pastor at First Baptist Church.
Rev. Johnathan Bryson, a resident of Gastonia, will assume the role of associate pastor at First Baptist Church.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Gastonia church announces new leadership