I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior in 1973. God used a near-fatal accident in my father's life to help me see my need for Jesus. At the age of 15, I felt a "call" to ministry. Though I didn't fully grasp what that meant, God made it clear to me over the coming years. I attended Baylor University and Southwestern Theological Seminary. I pastored 2 Texas churches, prior to going overseas as a denominational missionary, where our family served for 13 1/2 years in Brazil.
I came back to the states in 2007 and became pastor at 1st Baptist Church of Ganado, TX. In 2013, the Lord brought us to First Baptist Wharton. It has been a joy serving God and our church family. We have seen so many victories and are constantly amazed at how God is working in our midst. My wife is Tammy, and we have two children and a bunch of grandkids!
“Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.” Psalms 96:2
I vividly remember the day my parents helped me to know Jesus personally!! I was only 8 years old, and ever since that day, He has been right there with me, guiding me toward ministry endeavors.
It’s such a joy to serve the First Family here at FBC! I’ve had the pleasure of working in church music/women’s ministries for 50+ years, and received my musical education from our own WCJC followed by Houston Baptist University.
“It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High!”
Psalms 92:1
Youth Director
Matt Hurley
