Pastor John Wilkerson
Pastor & Mrs. John (Linda) Wilkerson were married in the summer of 1989, and God has blessed them with nine children: Tyler (now in Heaven), Derrick (Gillian), Preston (Ruby), Lydia (Philip), Drew (Lyndsi), Coleman, Judson, Mason, and Lacey. Pastor Wilkerson grew up in Tennessee and was saved as a child. Linda (Francis) grew up in Massachusetts and was also saved as a child. Pastor Wilkerson and Linda met at Hyles-Anderson College. Pastor Wilkerson graduated from Hyles-Anderson College in 1989, and Linda graduated in 1990.
After graduation, Pastor Wilkerson taught at our City Baptist School for one year before moving to California to teach high school at the First Baptist Church of Long Beach. In 1993, he assumed the position of principal of Calvary Christian School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, until returning to California to become the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Long Beach in June of 2000. Church services in English, Korean, and Spanish are conducted there every week. The Sunday school program grew in attendance from 849 to over 1,700 in the 12 years that he was pastor.
In August of 2008, the Wilkersons lost their 17-year-old son Tyler as the result of a car accident. The following Sunday, Pastor Wilkerson preached a sermon entitled, “God Makes No Mistakes.” God has used their testimony to help many hurting families.
In February 2013, Pastor Wilkerson and his family moved back to Indiana, where he currently serves as Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Hammond and Chancellor of Hyles-Anderson College. Pastor & Mrs. Wilkerson are the proud grandparents of seven grandchildren!
Our pastor and his wife have a heart for people and desire to help build individual lives that will strengthen the families of our communities. Our church endeavors to hold on to Bible-based preaching, singing, and a friendly atmosphere. Hymns of faith and a variety of special music grace our services. Our people are here to extend a warm welcome to those looking for a church home. Come visit and let us have the opportunity to get to meet you. A smile and a handshake are guaranteed!
Books written by Pastor & Mrs. Wilkerson
Marriage is the most precious and yet most attacked relationship humanly speaking. The Foundations of Marriage series by Pastor John Wilkerson covers key marriage principles for men and women from a Biblical perspective. Purchase these newly released books from @gracetogrow.media!
God wants our marriages to be a priority. One of the best things you can do for your kids is to stay deeply in love with God and your spouse.
What a wonderful week at Servants’ Conference. Grateful for the Lord’s blessing and help. So thankful for so many who were used of the Lord in a special way.
❕❕❕NEW RELEASE
We’re thrilled to introduce a brand new series, Foundation of Marriage, by Pastor John Wilkerson!
The Foundations of Marriage book series offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of marriage principles from a Biblical perspective, designed to guide couples in building a strong, lasting relationship. Each book focuses on a specific aspect of marriage. Together, this series provides couples with a comprehensive tool kit for navigating the complexities of marriage and encouraging growth, unity, and faithfulness.