At 43 years old, Rick Hermann has had his share of ministerial and pastoral experiences. While he spent a total of 15 years on staff at Christ Place Church in Oakwood, Georgia, he has served as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Greensboro, Georgia, and as the Central Campus Pastor at Christ Place. As of the vote on Sunday, November 10th, Hermann will serve as senior pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church of Clarkesville, beginning December 1st.
On Sunday, Nov. 10, Hermann preached his first sermon at Bethlehem Baptist in what can only be described as an electric setting. Over four hundred and twenty-five members and guests attended the service, filling the sanctuary and balcony, and requiring overflow seating to be set up in the church’s vestibule.
After the service, Hermann and his family withdrew while ballots were marked and then counted. The family returned to a standing ovation as the overwhelmingly positive vote was announced. Hermann received more than 99% of the vote.
Hermann describes himself as “deeply humbled and grateful for the opportunity to pastor Bethlehem Baptist Church of Clarkesville.” In addressing the deacons and staff members at a dinner on Friday night, Hermann stated that he has never felt God’s direction in his life as clearly as his call to Bethlehem. He said, “My family and I are filled with excitement and anticipation, believing that God has opened a wonderful door for this church and me to journey together.”
5 reasons
Five reasons Hermann is excited about his new position at Bethlehem Baptist
When interviewed, Hermann spelled out five reasons he’s excited to be starting this journey with Bethlehem Baptist and the community of Clarkesville. First, Hermann acknowledged the resilience and faithfulness of the church in its 200 years of history. “This is a place where people can find purpose, direction, and friendships that guide them along life’s path,” he shared.
Second, Hermann looks forward for he and his family to connect with the people here.
“There is nothing more valuable than people,” Hermann explained, “and I look forward to serving, caring for, and building meaningful bonds with each person I have the privilege to pastor.”
Third, Hermann sees Bethlehem Baptist as a vibrant, multigenerational church with people of all ages—from babies to grandparents—working together to serve our community, meet needs, and spread the gospel.
Fourth, Hermann notes that every person seeks love, purpose, community, hope, and forgiveness. “Whether they realize it or not, they are searching for Jesus,” Hermann said. “Bethlehem Baptist will continue to faithfully preach and teach the gospel, impacting lives in Clarkesville and beyond.”
Finally, Hermann shared that all people long for a place that feels like home and family, and he sees Bethlehem Baptist as that place. “Bethlehem is a beacon of hope for Clarkesville—a place where burdens feel lighter, where people are loved and encouraged, and where we can worship together. I look forward to sharing from God’s Word how we can continue to grow as this kind of church.”
Family man
Hermann is married to Charyl and has five children, Ty, age 17; twins Karis and Kate, age 14; Joy, age 10; and Mary Charlotte, age 7. While he begins his work at the church December 1st, he will begin preaching both services on Sunday, December 22nd.
Bethlehem Baptist Church is located at 624 GA-197 in Clarkesville, Georgia. Sunday Services are at 8:30 am (traditional worship with choir) and 10:45 am (contemporary worship with a praise team). All are welcome.
