Pastor Jim West has served Petros Baptist Church since October 1, 1993. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Carson-Newman University, a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Seminary, a Master of Theology from Southeastern Seminary, and a Doctorate of Theology from Andersonville Baptist Seminary.
Along with his ministry here, 'Preacher Jim' teaches courses for Ming Hua Theological College in Hong Kong online (and every few years, in person during January Term).
He has authored a number of books, including a commentary on the entire Bible. And he has lectured at various academic meetings in Europe, Asia, and America.
Locally, he has served as the Moderator of the Big Emory Baptist Association, the Vice-Moderator, and the Parliamentarian. He has also served on various Association committees.
'Preacher Jim' is, to date, the longest serving Pastor at Petros Baptist Church. The nearest to him in terms of longevity of service is a previous pastor who served 7 years.
He has been a blessing to our Church, our community, and our County. Along with his wife, Doris, who is the ideal Pastor's wife and who also has served in a variety of positions in our Church and who presently serves as our Church Pianist. Together they have loved us, prayed for us, ministered to us, stood by us, and 'Preacher Jim' has married us, buried our loved ones, baptized us, sat with us at the hospital with us, and been our Pastor.
We are thrilled he has been with us for 29 years and look forward to the next 29.
