“Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me.” The Lord in and by His goodness, has allowed us to know Him! Clay claims this truth is the greatest thing to be said about his life! The next greatest thing is that he has a wonderful wife and best friend, Mallory, and two amazing sons, Thomas and Lucas. Clay has a Ph.D. in Preaching, a Master of Theology (Th.M.) in Preaching, and a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in Preaching and Pastor Ministry, all received from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served for four years as Central’s Youth Pastor before later becoming our Senior Pastor in October 2021. He loves Central Baptist Church and is willing to lay down his lay to see our progress towards maturity in Christ! Clay also loves to spend time with family, read, write, drink coffee all day, workout, golf, and cheer on the South Carolina Gamecocks!
Joel was born and raised in Gaffney, SC, and is blessed with his wonderful wife, Kara, and two remarkable children, James and Sophie. He enjoys working out, reading and listening to books, playing games, watching movies, and college football.
Joel received a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Clemson University. He is pursuing a Master of Arts in Church Revitalization from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and plans to graduate in May 2025.
One of Joel’s favorite verses is Ezra 7:10, which states, “Ezra had determined in his heart to study the law of the Lord, obey it, and teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel.” This description of Ezra provides an excellent model of a Christian’s spiritual growth, particularly for church leaders. Believers are to set their minds to the task of reading and studying God’s law. However, it cannot end there, as the purpose of God’s Word is to transform hearts so that obedience follows. Then, Christians and church leaders are to set themselves to teach the Word of God to others. Joel’s passion is teaching and preaching God’s Word and discipling others to ultimately do the same.
Justin was born and raised in Chesnee, SC. He received a BA degree from North Greenville University in Church Music Praise and Worship. He also serves as director of BCM (Baptist Collegiate Ministries), Keyna mission partnerships, and discipleship strategist for the Broad River Baptist Association.
Justin enjoys anything and everything that creates lasting memories with his family. From trips to the zoo, Broadway shows, Disney world, or even playing board games and coloring at the dining room table. He also loves going on mission, whether across the world to Kenya or across the street from our church, to share the gospel with whoever will hear it and pray with whoever needs it.
Romans 12:1 commands that we present our entire bodies as a living sacrifice. Helping people understand that everything we do with our lives should be a sacrifice unto God. Furthermore, when we gather at Central for our Sunday morning worship service, the public reading of God's word, the prayers, the songs, the offering, the preaching of the word are all worship that we present as an offering to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Megan was born and raised in Gaffney, SC. She is married to her wonderful husband, Matt, and blessed with two amazing daughters, Lyla and Arya. She has a passion for teaching and holds a Bachelor of Science in Teaching Children with Learning Disabilities, a Master’s in Education focusing on Intellectual Disabilities. She is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. She enjoys reading, playing softball, and anything Disney in her free time. She has two verses that guide her life, 1 Corinthians 16:14, “Do everything in love,” and James 1:2–4, “Rejoice in the face of trials.” She is grateful to be part of a church family that helps us grow in faith and love together. She has recently taken on the role of Children's Minister and believes that every child is a beloved creation of God, uniquely gifted and deeply valued. She aims to partner with families in nurturing children's spiritual growth by helping them know God’s love, understand His Word, and live out their faith in meaningful ways.
Carol is the warm welcoming voice you will hear when you call our church. She has a heart for ministry and has served Central since 2006. Carol serves as our Financial Secretary and as Administrative Assistant. She is very helpful in assisting in all areas of the church. Carol and her husband Henry love the Lord with all their heart and enjoy serving Him in whatever He leads them to do. She is a graduate from Spartanburg Community College in Computer Science and Business. Her favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight”.