Pastor Herman Parker announces his retirement

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BREMEN — Herman Parker, pastor of First Baptist Church in Bremen for almost 28 years, announced on June 14 his plans to retire at the end of July.

Upon the occasion of Parker’s 25th anniversary, The Christian Index published an article in which Brad Hughes, who is now on Governor Brian Kemp’s staff , stated, “I had a tear roll down my face as Brother Herman Parker walked down the aisle to the back of the church after preaching one of the best, most applicable sermons I’ve ever heard of David’s sin and repentance in II Samuel 12. I was emotional because I know one day he will make that walk for the last time (as we all will) and when that day comes we will witness the silencing of one of the single most gifted communicators of God’s Word to ever draw breath to preach.”

On that occasion Mike Stone, who was president of the Georgia Baptist Convention, commented about Parker, “He is a prince of preachers, a Baptist statesman, and one of the finest men I have ever known.”

As a pastor, Parker has been known for his compassionate concern for his flock. Upon the occasion of that 25th anniversary celebration as pastor of the Bremen church, Parker stated, “You know my heart. I would crawl across the stage on broken glass to minister to your needs.”

As a preacher, Parker is known as an extraordinary expositor of the Word of God. Russell Brown, a Bremen businessman, stated, “He is the BEST preacher.” Wayne Robertson, the pastor of Morningside Baptist Church in Valdosta has hosted the South Georgia Bible Conference for over 30 years and has consistently had Parker as one of his conference preachers. He testified, “The name Herman Parker is synonymous with sound exposition, a humble spirit, an encourager like Barnabas, a faithful pastor, and a consistent walk with Christ.”

As a Christian gentleman, Parker has walked circumspectly in this world. Robertson added, “All who have been associated with him have been made more Christlike because of his influence. To know Herman is to know the likeness of Jesus.” Beth Demkowski added, “My entire family has benefitted greatly by learning from this godly man. I’ve never once questioned his character, never once heard him utter a word from the pulpit that contradicted God’s Word.”

Jay Webb, a local Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) missionary, commented, “Herman Parker is one of the best and most humble men I have ever met. Bremen is a better place because of this servant of God.” An avid University of Alabama football fan, Parker has reached into the athletic community in Bremen by serving as the Character Coach (chaplain) for the Bremen High School Blue Devils.

Church member Dr. Casey Coats exclaimed, “He is a man of true character and compassion. Brother Herman’s ministry has touched the lives of so many and I’m blessed that God called him to be my pastor.”

As a leader among Georgia Baptists, he has served as the chairman of the Executive Committee. He has also been on the Administration Committee, chairman of the Georgia Baptist Healthcare Foundation, and as vice president of the Georgia Baptist Convention.

Parker was saved at the age of 15 at Shocco Springs (Baptist Assembly) in Talladega, Ala. He responded to God’s call to preach at age 17 and was licensed and ordained by Big Sandy Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa. Parker began pastoring his first church as a senior in high school and has been a pastor for the past 60 years.

The Alabama native graduated from Tuscaloosa County High School, where he was the senior class president and the captain of the football team. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Samford University and served as a teacher in the school’s extension program.

Parker has preached in more than 400 revivals and Bible conferences, including preaching experiences at the Alabama Baptist Evangelism Conference, the Georgia Baptist Convention and numerous associational conferences.

The faithful Bremen pastor served seven churches in Alabama prior to being called to the West Georgia church in November 1992. (This writer is confident that Herman Parker will begin to write a new chapter in his life that will be filled with many opportunities to continue his powerful preaching ministry).

Parker is married to the former Fay Hayes, daughter of Jack and Virginia Hayes. They have three sons and five grandchildren. They plan to return to Alabama and live in Eufaula

The church would like to present cards, letters, and emails to their pastor. Those who wish to contribute to the book of remembrance should sent them to Andy Fowler, 223 Meadowbrook Lane, Carrollton, GA 30117 or andyfowler@fbcbremen.org.


longevity, retirement