TERRY BOOTH became pastor of Amite Baptist Church August 1, 1985. Now, over twenty years later, he tells everyone, "This has been one of the great joys of my life!" Prior to coming to ABC, Bro. Terry served as pastor of the Scenic Heights Baptist Church in Pensacola, Florida, the Indian Springs Baptist Church in Laurel, Mississippi, the First Baptist Church of Blum, Texas, and the First Baptist Church of Ovett, Mississippi. Reaching out to all people with a positive and loving spirit is the hallmark of his pastoral ministry.

You will not have to know Bro. Terry long to hear about "his Helen." He came to faith in Christ August 26, 1969, as a result of the personal ministry of Helen Lewis " the mother of a friend " in Laurel, Mississippi. Helen's spirit of love, joy, and peace captivated Terry, having been reared in a family gripped by alcoholism. Today, you can learn much about hope, peace, and strength from what Christ did for him in these early challenging years.

Terry's wife Ann has been his greatest partner in ministry for over three decades. You may not find two more different people, but he would say, "Viva la difference!" God graced their marriage with three beautiful daughters: Allison, Andrea, and Ashley. You will often see a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes when he says, "My girls..." As the years have come and gone, other men have captured their hearts, Allison married Cliff McDaniel, Andrea married Cody Duke, and Ashley married Neal Duplantis. All live within in five miles. New joys have sprouted in the family garden - GRANDCHILDREN - Madeleine (Maddy) and MacKenzie (Kenzie) McDaniel, and Landon (Big Boy) Duplantis. As you see Bro. Terry move about the campus, you will often find him packin' any number of grandchildren. You may wonder who is having more fun.

It seems Bro. Terry is always studying something new. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Studies from William Carey College, the Master of Divinity and later the Master of Theology degrees from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He also earned the Doctor of Ministry degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and will soon receive the Doctor of Philosophy degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Preaching and teaching are two of his passions. Bro. Terry has taught as a member of the adjunctive faculty of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. "Shhhhh," he dreams of going to medical school too, he just hasn't talked to Ann about it yet.

Bro. Terry has the heart of a shepherd. You will often hear him say, "My people," or "My friends." You will soon find out there is a place for you in his heart and in our family of faith. If you call on him, he is almost always, right there.

However, what most people say about Bro. Terry, is "Oh, you're that runnin' preacher." Terry is an avid runner and has been for twenty-five years. During that time he has logged over 50,000 miles with over 35,000 of that being right here the greater Baton Rouge area. If you see him on the side of the road, don't pick him up just honk and wave, there is no telling where he is going now!