By Maggie Walsh
The Alabama Baptist
Tim Anderson, pastor of Clements Baptist Church, Athens, celebrated a personal milestone Oct. 26 — 20 years as pastor of one church.
“I feel that as long as a pastor has a vision for his church, he should stay until that vision is complete,” Anderson said of his ministry at Clements Baptist.
Anderson received his education from Samford University in Birmingham, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Andersonville Theological Seminary in Camilla, Ga.
In addition to serving as pastor of Clements, he has served on the University of Mobile’s board of regents and currently serves as president and director of International Congress on Revival (ICR) in South Africa; Zimbabwe; Haiti; Israel; Budapest, Hungary; and South America.
Anderson said the congregation’s support of his call to become involved with ICR was a pivotal point in his ministry.
“(Clements) has always shared my vision and passion for the community and nation … They embraced (ICR) and now travel with me into multiple countries each year, equipping pastors and key lay leaders.”
Adding a new building to church grounds and the April 2011 tornadoes also were turning points for Clements and for Anderson.
“Our church became the hands and feet of Jesus during that time,” Anderson said of the tornadoes’ aftermath. “If we had not shown the love and compassion of Jesus through that heart-breaking time, we would have missed God’s plan totally.”
To celebrate its pastor, the church had a surprise reception honoring Anderson and his wife, Sherry, following the morning service. Congratulatory videos from Bill Stafford, Ted Traylor and Johnny Hunt were part of the celebration.
Additionally, the Limestone Baptist Association church gave Anderson and his wife a month-long sabbatical for rest and renewal.
“I feel like I am the most fortunate pastor in the entire world. … I look forward to the next season and chapter of our ministry.”
Anderson and his wife have three children and one granddaughter.
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