Steve Gaines, former president of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), has entered hospice care as he continues his battle with cancer, according to a letter shared by Bellevue Baptist Church and reported by Baptist Press.
Pastoral Service and Health Decline
Gaines, 68, disclosed a kidney cancer diagnosis in 2023 while serving as pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church in Tennessee. Prior to Bellevue, he served as pastor at Gardendale First Baptist Church in Alabama for 14 years. In 2024, Gaines announced plans to transition out of the pastorate, stating that the decision was unrelated to his cancer diagnosis.
Leadership in the Southern Baptist Convention
Gaines was elected president of the Southern Baptist Convention in June 2016 and re-elected in 2017, Baptist Press reported. During his tenure, he was noted for his pastoral leadership and mentorship. Bellevue Baptist Church Pastor Ben Mandrell described Gaines as a faithful servant and encouraged prayers for him and his family.
Family Request and Community Response
A recent post on Gardendale First Baptist Church’s Facebook page noted that Gaines had been placed on hospice care and that the family requested no visitors at this time. The message, signed by Pastor Kevin Hamm and church staff, called for prayers for Gaines and his family, highlighting the impact of his ministry.
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