First Baptist Church of Detroit Appoints Reverend Theodore Turman as Its New Leader

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A convergence of historic significance and assured promise has guided the congregation of First Baptist Church of Detroit to appoint Reverend Theodore Turman as its new leader.

On the threshold of the 187^th anniversary, First Baptist Church of Detroit remains a vibrant spiritual presence in southeast Michigan and its commitment to a multi-racial, multi-cultural ministry is a hallmark of faithful service to the American Baptist tradition.

Reverend Theodore Turman's appointment fortifies this fundamental commitment and his installation will coincide with the historic anniversary celebration on Sunday, October 19, 3 p.m., at the First Baptist Church of Detroit, 21100 Southfield Road, Southfield, MI.

Reverend Turman was born in Boston, Massachusetts and moved to Detroit in 1988. He is a graduate of Renaissance High School, Tuskegee University and Emory University Candler School of Theology.  He most recently served as chaplain at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and continues to pursue his doctorate of ministry at Boston University School of Theology. Rev. Turman is also a proud member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

On accepting the position, Reverend Turman remarked, "Being called to Pastor the First Baptist Church of Detroit is truly one of the greatest honors of my life. To lead a congregation with such racial and cultural diversity is a rare opportunity, not just for a younger minister, but for any minister. First Baptist Church of Detroit sees itself as a 'Bridge' in the Metropolitan Detroit area. Indeed, now more than ever, our region needs persons and communities that will draw us together and not tear us apart. Akilah, Gavin, and I look forward, with great excitement and hopefulness, to the wonderful things we will accomplish together as Pastor and People."

As Moderator of First Baptist Church of Detroit, Brenda Threatt noted, "I believe I speak for our entire congregation when I say that we look forward to the installation of our new reverend, Theodore T. Turman, with excited anticipation of his leadership and vision for the future of our church. Throughout the selection process, Reverend Turman demonstrated his strength of character, intelligent foresight, and love of God and family - all qualities that we cherish at First Baptist Church of Detroit. We believe that Reverend Turman represents not only a bright hope for tomorrow but for many tomorrows to come."

In 1824 a group of determined Detroit Baptists set out to create a place of worship. On October 20, 1827, under the leadership of Henry Davis, First Baptist Church of Detroit was formally organized. In 1957, the church broke ground on the present day location in Southfield, Michigan.

Among the most notable events that mark the history of the First Baptist of Detroit congregation is one that occurred in 1836, when 13 former enslaved African-Americans left a then segregated First Baptist Church of Detroit, to form the renowned Second Baptist Church of Detroit. Today, the two churches enjoy a profound passion for the principles of Baptist faith and seeking a modern relevance to service throughout our respective communities and the world.

And in a striking weaving of shared history, Pastor Theodore Turman is the son of the distinguished and long-serving pastor of Second Baptist Church of Detroit - Rev. Dr. Kevin M. Turman.

For more information, please contact us:

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF DETROIT
21200 SOUTHFIELD ROAD
SOUTHFIELD, MI 48075-7615
248-569-2972

Fax: 248-569-9636 Email: [email protected]

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SOURCE First Baptist Church of Detroit