By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE — First Missionary Baptist Church’s first pastoral anniversary program honored the Rev. Dr. Carlos D. Williams and his family, recognizing a year of leadership through worship, tributes, and thanksgiving.
The order of service began with Brother Willie Harris, Sister Carolyn Harris, and Sister Laila Richards-Poole escorting the pastor, first lady, and first son. Afterward, the program continued with congregational singing, musical selections, and an invitation to Christian discipleship.
According to the church’s published history, Williams officially began his pastoral tenure on Oct. 5, 2025. His ministry vision, G.R.O.W., emphasizes Growth, Reconciliation, Organization, and Worship.
A native of Shelby County, Alabama, Williams previously led congregations in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Dallas, Texas. He earned his Doctor of Ministry from Virginia University of Lynchburg in 2021. He and Joannie have two sons, Corbin and Kenan.
The anniversary program named the Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor Jr., senior pastor of Community Baptist Church in Englewood, New Jersey, as guest preacher. An accomplished musician and educator, he brings decades of pastoral leadership and biblical teaching. His biography stated that he has led his congregation since 1993.
Sister Latoya Jackson York was listed to lead the call to worship and invocation, with Sister Cynthia Pollard leading the litany. The committee assigned anniversary tributes to Deaconess Elizabeth Ann Ware, Trustee Darryl Pope, and Sister Selah McElroy.
The Rev. James Taylor II was listed for worship through giving and the prayer of thanksgiving. Presentations were assigned to Deacon Earnest Davis and Trustee Dr. Shelia Nash-Stevenson.
Chairpersons were Brother Detaveyon and Sister Timeka Smith, along with Trustee Dwight and Sister Kim Stewart. The program concluded with closing and pastoral remarks, a final blessing assigned to the Rev. Earla Lockhart, and a benediction.
The anniversary’s focus on thanksgiving and discipleship reflected the congregation’s recognition of Williams’ leadership and its continuing commitment to faith and service.