Easter Sunday, Apr. 15, 2001, was an eventful day for First Baptist Church, Fairhope as Dr. Jerry Henry began his ministry in Fairhope. The church celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ on this special day under the leadership of its new pastor. Fifteen years later, he announced his retirement effective May 31, 2016.

Dr. Henry has led FBC, Fairhope on many blessed occasions and through a few very difficult times. He has performed countless weddings, baby dedications and baptisms, and too many funerals.

The most traumatic challenge was on Oct. 29, 2003, when the sanctuary was totally destroyed by a fire – 30 months after Dr. Henry came as pastor. From that evening to July 22, 2007, the congregation met at the Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope High School and the James Nix Senior Center. The new sanctuary completed in 2007 now seats 1,500.

While times were difficult, the members pulled together and found the pearls of prayerful decision-making and teamwork. Membership has grown from 1,274 in 2001 to over 2,160 in 2016.

Dr. Henry, a native of Selma, graduated from Auburn University in 1968 and served as a U.S. Army Officer from 1969 to 1973, including a tour of duty in Vietnam.

Upon discharge, he entered Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth, TX and received his Master of Divinity degree. In 1984, he received his Doctorate in New Testament. He became pastor of Marion Junction Baptist Church in Marion Junction in 1985. From 1986 to 2001, he was pastor of Elkdale Baptist Church in Selma.

During the years of 1989 to 2001, he also served as Adjunct Professor at Samford University (Birmingham), Wallace Community College (Selma), Southern Seminary (Auburn) and Judson College (Marion).

His departure from FBC Fairhope will leave mixed emotions with his parishioners.  He is dearly regarded by church members, as well as citizens and political figures in Fairhope.  Dr. Henry and his wife Susan, have left a lasting positive mark on the city.

 “Dr. Henry is a dear friend and has been a great asset to the Fairhope community,” Fairhope Mayor Tim Kant said. “He has served as Chaplain to the City Council and been available to me personally and to the City for many years. I wish him the best in his retirement.” 

The Celebration Service will be held at First Baptist Fairhope, 300 S. Section Street, Fairhope, AL. on May 15, 2016.

The service will begin at 5 p.m. with a reception following in the Fellowship Hall. For more information, call (251) 928-8685 or email Spippin@FBCFairhope.org. Visitors are invited to attend.