A longtime familiar face at Burnt Hickory becomes its pastor

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Matt Petty, who began at Burnt Hickory Baptist Church as its student pastor in 2001, was voted to become the congregation's senior pastor on July 14. BHBC/Special

POWDER SPRINGS — Since 2001 Matt Petty has developed a relationship with Burnt Hickory Baptist Church as its student pastor. He'll continue that relationship as the congregation's senior pastor following the church's vote July 14.

Petty's first official Sunday at the church in his new role will be Aug. 4.
During his ministry that began in 1997, Petty "has seen thousands of students and adults give their lives to Jesus" according to a statement by the church. The church's previous pastor of 32 years, Mike Stephens, retired in May.

Petty's tenure as student pastor included those in middle and high school as well as college-age. The Cobb County native is joined by his wife, Melissa, and sons Blake and Dalton.

Petty is a graduate of the University of West Georgia, where he received a Bachelor's degree in Business Finance, and Liberty University, where he earned a Master's degree in Theology.

Ministerial Moves, ReachingNextGen, student ministry