Tommy Pierce believes that faithfulness and longevity are two of the most important aspects of ministry, and he has displayed both throughout his 41 years in church music. Pierce retired April 1 after leading the choir at First Baptist Church, Boaz, on Easter. He recently marked 20 years as minister of music at First, Boaz, and was honored on March 11.
Pierce recognized his need for a Savior and in 1972, while assisting with the music for a revival at Blue Springs Baptist Church, Somerville, he felt God call him into ministry.
Previously, he served 17 years at First Baptist Church, Oneonta, and also has served at Moulton Baptist Church, Maplesville Baptist Church, Blue Springs Baptist Church and Travis Avenue Baptist Church, Fort Worth, Texas.
Pierce holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Montevallo and a master of church music degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas.
Pierce said that his relationship with God has helped him stay faithful through the ups and downs of his life.
“The best thing is a personal devotional life,” he said. “It helps you stay close to the Lord and keep a fire. … When hard times come, it’s best to try to stick it out. It’s how you grow and how you stay close to your church.”
Pierce believes churches grow when people are active in their area of expertise and he wants every member of every church to find where their talents and gifts are and get busy serving with them.
Pierce has cherished his time in ministry and is thankful for the people he has been able to serve alongside.
“First Baptist, Boaz, has been really good to me,” he said. “Especially through this time of cancer.”
Pierce, his family and his church ask for prayers as he continues his battle with cancer.
“Through all, God’s been faithful.”
A celebration honoring Pierce’s ministry will be held at 3 p.m. on April 29 at First, Boaz. He and his wife, Renee, have three children and five grandchildren.
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