Announcing Our Shepherd Candidates

At First Baptist Church of Kenova, we believe leadership in Christ’s church is not about titles, but about testimony. The Bible calls shepherds (also referred to as elders, pastors or overseers) to model godly character, teach the Word faithfully, and shepherd the flock with humility and love. As we prepare for the upcoming term beginning in 2026, we’re grateful to announce Josh Campbell and Ryan Wellman as candidates for the office of shepherd.

In 1 Timothy 3:1–7, the Apostle Paul outlines the biblical qualifications for this role. He writes, “If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task.” Shepherds must be above reproach, faithful to their spouse, self-controlled, sober-minded, respectable, hospitable, and able to teach. They are to be gentle, not quarrelsome or greedy, managing their own households well so that their leadership in the church mirrors their leadership at home. Paul reminds us that an elder’s credibility rests not on charisma or giftedness, but on character proven over time.

At FBCK, we take these qualifications seriously. The elder/pastor/overseer’s primary task is to shepherd the church (which is why we prefer the term shepherd), ensuring that teaching aligns with Scripture, that members are cared for, and that decisions honor both truth and grace. It’s not a position of power, but one of servant leadership, patterned after Jesus—the Chief Shepherd—who laid down His life for His sheep.

Both Josh Campbell and Ryan Wellman have demonstrated this kind of character and faithfulness. Each has served our church family for years through teaching, discipleship, and humble service. After a period of prayer and evaluation by our current elders, we are presenting them to the congregation as elder candidates for the 2026–2029 term.
In the days ahead, we encourage members to pray for discernment, to get to know these men and their families, and to affirm God’s work in their lives. If you have questions or biblical concerns, please reach out to any of our current elders.

Let’s give thanks to the Lord for raising up faithful shepherds to guide His people!