Our Team

Dr. Carey Bates

Senior Pastor

A lifetime follower of Christ, well equipped to teach, lead, and love. His experiences include serving as a Minister of Youth, Minister of Music, Pastor, SBC International Mission Board leader, and Missionary.

Jerrey Thurston

Church Administrator

Jerrey fills a part-time position at DBC helping in the areas of administration, building management, discipleship, and assisting Pastor Carey with pastoral duties. He has served as Pastor, Minister of Education, Music, Media, and Church Administrator in Florida. He is a member of the GOBA Church Plant Team and Finance Team for Central Florida.

Rev. Karl Roberts

Singles Coordinator

Karl has a heart for singles of all ages and seeks to build a ministry to this unique group.

David Knight

Evangelist, Preacher and Teacher

David is a man of vision with passion - eager to fulfill Christ's command to reach the lost. He is a preacher and teacher; but foremost an evangelist. He is leading the Friends in Transition (FIT) ministry for people in need. In this work several people have moved from sleeping on the street into safe housing. Some have professed Christ and all have been "built up in the faith".

Rhonda Edwards

Children's & Pre-School Director

Mrs. Rhonda Edwards leads the DBC children's and pre-school programs. If you want your children to become Christ followers, bring them to DBC. Bring your friends and their families too.

Michael Janeiro

Worship Leader

Mike is a really interesting guy. He writes music, plays several instruments, sings, and leads worship at Downtown Baptist Church.

Rev. Jim Hodsdon

Senior Adult Activities

Jim is a member of DBC with a special interest in ministering to Seniors.