Who We Are
Vision Statement
First Baptist Church of Williston exists to equip the saints in accomplishing the Great Commission.
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
Mission Statement
First Baptist Church of Williston empowers its members to grow the Kingdom of God through universal evangelism, relational discipleship, and strategic mission.
Universal Evangelism: The call of sharing the Gospel falls on all believers and should be fulfilled consistently.
Relational Discipleship: Growth in Christ is fostered through authentic and intentional connection where we can spur one another on to love and good deeds.
Strategic Mission: Every act of service the church does should come with strings attached, and those strings should be the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Vision and Mission
Meet the Pastor
Joseph M. Sanders, Sr.
Joseph has served FBCW as a Worship Team Member, Deacon, and Student Pastor, but now has been Lead Pastor since October 2023. He also has had experience as a Worship Leader, Outreach Coordinator, and Associate Pastor. His primary ministry is serving and discipling his wife, Ciera, and their three beautiful children: Naomi, Joseph Jr. (Little Joe), and Alice.
Joseph grew up in Blackville, SC and got a head start in ministry with his father, Don Sanders, leading worship at First Baptist Church of Barnwell. Beginning at the age of 6, he was weekly serving on the worship team. His family also led “Just Say Jesus Ministries” that would travel the state helping church with programs and camps.
Joseph graduated from Williston-Elko High School, and now is focused on getting the community connected to the Gospel. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina with concentrations in Management and Economics. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Meet the Staff
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Joshua Helms
NEXT-GENERATIONS PASTOR
Joshua joined the FBCW family in March of 2024, and has made a huge impact on the children and youth in our community. Between his emphasis on personal discipleship and his boldness in preaching, he lights a fire in the young people here at the church. He has 4 years of experience in student ministry and two years experience in worship leading. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of South Carolina.
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Debra Huggins
FINANCIAL SECRETARY
Debby has been the first line of love and care at the FBCW office since February of 2023. With over 40 years of accounting experience, she ensures that not only does our congregation feel loved, but they feel safe and secure in how the church handles money. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Economics from Rollins College, an MBA from the University of Phoenix, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.
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Ciera Sanders
WORSHIP LEADER
Ciera is the longest employed staff member at FBCW, beginning in April of 2021. She has a heart for seeing God’s people authentically worship, and seeking excellence in the worship service. Her passion has been clear through years of service on worship teams across the state. In addition to her official role, she also handles the church’s social media, technology, and helps teach in the Women’s Ministry. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from the College of Charleston.
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Amanda Dennis
CLEANING PERSONNEL
Amanda joined the FBCW team in February of 2023, but she has been serving the church for many years, going back to her childhood and teen years. Between her official role and her volunteer roles on our decorating and events committees, her servant’s heart is what keeps our campus looking beautiful. She is also the lay-leader of our First Kids ministry.
Theology and Beliefs
First Baptist Church of Williston is associated with the Southern Baptist Convention, and adheres to the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. For an overview of our beliefs on the Christian faith and church membership, please read the following documents.
Senior Leadership Team (SLT)
Joseph Sanders, Sr. (Lead Pastor)
Joshua Helms (Next-Gen Pastor)
Caleb Everson
Bill Frederick
Greg Hindman
Tim Smith
What is the SLT?
The Senior Leadership Team serves as the Elder Board of First Baptist Williston. Following the requirements of Titus 1:6-9, the SLT works diligently to care for the spiritual needs of the congregation. This includes the vision, mission, direction, and discipline of the church.
Our Leadership
Deacons
Bill Frederick (Chairman)
Caleb Everson (Vice-Chairman)
David Corder (Secretary)
David Dandridge
Steve Everson
Phil Huggins
Tim Smith
What is a Deacon?
A deacon is a servant leader of the church. Originally established in Acts 6, they are tasked with caring for the physical and administrative needs of the congregation to allow the pastoral staff to focus on the spiritual needs of the church.
