Leadership

John Wayne is a lifelong resident of Banks County.  He graduated from Banks County High School and has a Mortuary of Science degree from Gupton Jones School of Mortuary Services.  He surrendered his call to preach early in life.  He has served at two churches as youth pastor, but this is his first time to serve as a senior pastor.  He has been married to his wife Wendi Abernathy for 30 years.  They have one daughter Lauren, a son in law Nick, and two grandsons Langston and Holland.
     “Our family is so humbled to be used by the God of the universe to serve at such a loving church.  We look forward to seeing the mighty things HE is going to do.”  John Wayne

Mike Smith is a long time resident of Banks County. He has served as a deacon at Mount Carmel since 2004. Mike serves his church in various other ways as well, such as teaching the 4th and 5th grade class on Wednesday nights, being a part of the audio and video team, and always filling in wherever and whenever there is a need. He has the honor and privilege of being married to his high school sweetheart, Jane Smith, with whom he has three children, who are Chelsea (married to Chris), Jarrett, and Michaela, along with two grandchildren, Owen and Carlan. Mike feels extremely blessed to be able to serve the Lord at Mount Carmel Baptist Church. 

Carol Wade lives in Habersham County and is married to Gene Wade.  They have one son Jeremy, daughter-in-law Natalie, and two grandchildren, Evie and Piercyn. She is retired and honored to serve as OWLS (Older, Wiser, Livelier Saints) director and other ways in the church.  She grew up in a singing family and has sung many years with her sisters.
"It is my pleasure to be a part of Mt Carmel Church and be a part of this singing ministry." Carol Wade

Earl Nix Jr. was raised up here at Mount Carmel. He graduated from Banks County High School and now works as a foreman for Georgia Bridge and Concrete. He's married to Crystal and together they have 6 kids and 5 grandkids.

Ashley is a lifelong resident of Banks County and lives in Homer with her husband, Jacob, and their son, Levi. Ashley feels that it is a blessing and honor to serve as the children's director and in various other roles at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Banks County Christian Learning Center.

Dianne was born and raised in Banks County. She has been a member of MCBC for over 35 years. She is married to Steve Westmoreland. They have one son, Brian, and two daughters, Mandy Sullens, married to Justin, and Jill Cash, married to Wesley. They have five grandchildren: Aubree, Lucy, Annie, Eleanor, and Clayton. Dianne recently retired after 39 years of service with USDA/FSA. She currently serves as VBS co-director, works in the children's ministry where she teaches K-2 grades and serves as the WMU director (Women's Ministry).

"I am truly grateful to be a member of such a loving and caring church family. I am so unworthy of God's grace and mercy, but so thankful for my salvation. It's an honor to serve in any capacity God leads."

Amber resides in Lula with her husband, Jonathan, and their two children, Oaklie and Ramsey. She is currently a stay at home mother while going back to school to complete her bachelor's degree. She serves as our youth director for the children in middle school and high school. She also serves as a female chaplain for FCA at Banks County Schools.
"I am forever thankful that God led us to be a part of the family at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and for the opportunity to serve the youth. It has been an honor and a blessing being apart of their discipleship and helping them grow their relationship with the Lord."

Tommy Shaw, Chris Moat, Mike Smith