Dr. Bruce Barber
Pastor
I was born in Jacksonville FL but mostly lived in Gainesville until the late 1980s. Jesus revealed Himself to me during a Steve Green concert in my “home” church, North Central Baptist Church in Gainesville FL. In March 1989, God called me into vocational ministry while I was working in Home Depot–a radical experience that I often reflect upon for perspective, strength, and encouragement. I have been blessed to train at three fantastic schools: Florida Baptist Theological College (Baptist College of Florida in Graceville; Th.B), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (in Ft. Worth TX; MDiv with Languages), and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (in Louisville KY; DMin). I met my incredible wife, Lisa, while going to seminary in TX. Only God could lead a beautiful woman from Iowa to meet a Florida boy while attending a church (FBC) in Euless that was holding a Bible Study in Grand Prairie.
In 1996, First Baptist Church in Brunswick, Georgia, called me to serve as Minister of Single Adults and Evangelism. In December of 2003, God led me to serve as Interim Pastor at Merrill Road Community Church in Jacksonville, FL. In September 2005, I was called to serve as Pastor of this historic church. It has been a fantastic journey of love and learning, and I look forward to God continuing to shower His blessings upon His church as we invest our very best to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). I truly enjoy Lisa and my daughter Cydney, traveling, encouraging others, surfing, and the fighting Florida Gators! My favorite verse is: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11.
Steven Cunningham
Worship Leader
Originally from Baltimore, MD, Steven Cunningham has been a dedicated worship leader for over two decades. With a passion for music that began in his teens, Steven has honed his skills on the guitar and has shared his vocal talents as a member of a gospel quartet. For the past 24 years, he has served on the worship team at FBC, where his commitment to uplifting worship and spiritual growth has made a lasting impact. Steven’s journey reflects a deep dedication to his craft and a heartfelt connection with his community. Steven enjoys spending quality time with his family. He is happily married to his wife, Amanda, and is proud of his two adult children, Emma and Ethan, who continue to inspire him with their own pursuits and achievements.
Amanda Cunningham
Administrative Assistant
Amanda is a dedicated administrative assistant who was born and raised in Texas. A proud fourth-generation member of First Baptist Church, Amanda balances her professional life with her role as a loving mother of two. She is supported by her husband, Steven, who shares her passion for service and faith. Her strong family values and active engagement in church activities underscore her deep-rooted connections and devotion.