Our Staff

Senior Pastor

Ben and his wife Hannah officially became part of the FBC family on July 12, 2020. They have three sons: Jude, Micah, and Levi. Ben graduated from Baylor in 2012 (B.A.) and Duke Divinity School in 2017 (M.Div.). Previously, Ben served as the Youth Pastor at FBC Cuero, TX and as a Pastoral Launching Pad resident at Bent Tree Bible Fellowship in Carrollton, TX. Ben loves spending time with his family, and he loves learning.

Youth Minister

Maddie Shirley graduated from Baylor University in May 2020. She is currently attending Truett Seminary, pursuing a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry. Maddie is from Waco and grew up at Highland Baptist Church. In her free time, Maddie enjoyes reading, being outside and spending time with family and friedns. Maddie's favorite verse is Galatians 2:20, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is not longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

Music Minister

Branton Tennison and his wife, KayLeigh, are from Gatesville. Branton began leading worship at his home church in Gatesville and has always been passionate about leading the church in worship. His favorite hobbies are playing guitar, spending time with his friends and family, and watching movies with his wife. Branton is planning on finishing an associate's degree at McLennan Community College, with hopes of becoming a Chemical Dependency Counselor.