Great Passion for the Lord Leads to Being Named Youth Pastor

Piney Grove Baptist Church (PGBC) named Jake Hill as its new fulltime youth/associate pastor and has plans through the ministry of that position to better serve its young church members as well as youth throughout the community. The church has history in Hardeman County that dates back to 1836, and its leadership understands the importance of ministering to the youth, who will not only continue the legacy of the church, but share the love of Christ with people everywhere.

“I am very excited and ready to go to work in building the youth at Piney Grove Baptist Church! I know we are going to have some struggles, but I believe God opened this door for a reason and with His guidance, I feel He will meet our needs,” said Pastor Hill, who was called to ministry in November 2023. “I have filled in with pulpit supply around Hardeman County throughout this year.”

Pastor Hill, who lives in Bolivar, obtained his Evangelism and Pastoral training certificates from Love Worth Finding Ministries in January 2024. He was licensed in the Gospel ministry to preach by Piney Grove Baptist Church in March 2024. He is currently taking online certificate classes with the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in interpreting and teaching the Bible and Christian Theology.

“I also plan on attending the North Mississippi Baptist Bible Institute in New Albany, Mississippi this September,” said Pastor Hill, who plans to use his skills and knowledge from his training to implement new youth programs at PGBC.

Pastor Hill has a great passion for the Lord and a special heart for young people. Although he and his wife, Kim, are not parents, she has been a great encourager for Pastor Hill to follow the call of the Lord. Pastor Hill is excited about being a positive role model for the young people he will meet and lead as youth/associate pastor.

“I am beyond blessed to have my supportive wife, Kim, that is right there with me through everything. She has been so helpful and willing to encourage me since surrendering to the ministry, I don’t know if I could do it without her,” said Pastor Hill. “I love interacting with people, having fun, laughing, and kidding around. I like getting to know people on a personal level and a first name basis but most of all I love sharing the Gospel with others, especially young people!”

Pastor Hill is originally from Montpelier, Mississippi, and Kim is from Independence, Mississippi, but was actually born in Jackson, Tennessee. Her family later moved to Mississippi. During those years, she spent a lot of time in Bolivar visiting with her grandmother, Margaret Rainey Dix, with whom she had a close relationship. Now living in Hardeman County, they both have a new love for the area and the people.

“I have to say the one thing I have grown to love about Hardeman County is its people. They are down to earth great people, and I’m glad to be in Hardeman County,” said Pastor Hill who also shared more about PGBC lead pastor David Howell and his wife. “Pastor Brother David Howell and his wife, Andrea, have been just like family to me and my wife. They are so willing to help and listen to all the ideas, situations, and problems. They have been a huge influence on me on this journey. They are some wonderful Christian people!”

Piney Grove Baptist Church is hosting a Meet the Youth Pastor event on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at 10 a.m.

“If you are looking for a church, give us a try at Piney Grove Baptist Church. These are some of the most loving and caring people you will ever meet,” said Pastor Hill. “We want to grow and have new people come and worship with us. Don’t worry about anything, come as you are and see how the great folks at PGBC will treat you.”

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