Reverend Bill Greer returns to New Liberty Freewill Baptist Church for Special “Most Thankful Monday” Service
Published 12:59 pm Thursday, November 16, 2023
Contributed Photo New Liberty Freewill Baptist Church celebrated 50 Years of service with Reverend Bill and Mary Greer a few years ago.
Contributed Photo A rock was placed at New Liberty Freewill Baptist Church, celebrating the 50+ years of service of Preacher Bill Greer.
Contributed Photo Reverend Bill Greer celebrates a birthday with his family.
Contributed Photo Pastor Greer and his wife, Mary Nell were married on June 2, 1960.
Contributed Photo Charles Peters was baptized by Reverend Bill Greer and Dan June Garland in Creek behind New Liberty in May 1972.
|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
BY C.Y. Peters
In a much-anticipated homecoming, Pastor Bill Greer is set to return to the pulpit of New Liberty Freewill Baptist Church on Monday night, November 20th, as part of the congregation’s “Most Thankful Monday” services. This marks a poignant reunion as Pastor Greer began his preaching journey at the very same “rock church” over five decades ago.
Greer, a resilient 90-year-old, traced his roots to the picturesque landscapes of Roan Mountain in the Burbank community. His journey unfolded with unwavering dedication to service, first as a Corporal in the US Army during the Korean War, stationed in Germany as an MP. He found not only a calling but love at the VA hospital, where he worked alongside Mary Nell, an RN nurse.
Before answering the divine call to preach, Bull’s melodious voice resonated in the “Saving Grace” Quartet, capturing hearts for years and yielding two cherished albums. His pastoral journey began at Keystone FWB Church, delivering his inaugural sermon to a familiar congregation.
Throughout his pastoral tenure, Bull ministered to three churches and briefly served as an interim pastor at Riverview Baptist Church in Erwin and First FWB Church in Mountain City. His impact extended beyond local congregations, with spirited revivals echoing through East Tennessee, Western North Carolina, and Southwest Virginia. Remarkably, his ministry even touched New Jersey, where he conducted a heartfelt funeral for a close friend’s sister.
Bill’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Jacks Creek Free Will Baptist Ministers Association, an enduring affiliation spanning his entire pastoral career. A shepherd, singer, soldier, and caregiver, Bull Greer’s life narrates a symphony of faith, love, and unwavering commitment, with the echoes of his sermons and hymns resonating in the hearts of those touched by his nearly 800 conducted funerals.
On August 15th, 1971, Bill Greer delivered his first sermon at New Liberty, igniting a spiritual flame that burned brightly for 11 years. The upcoming service is a testament to the enduring connection between Pastor Greer and the congregation that witnessed the early days of his ministry and still attends today.
The roots of Bill’s commitment extend beyond the pulpit. A pillar of marital devotion, Pastor Greer and his wife, Mary Nell, celebrated an impressive 63 years of wedded bliss since their union on June 2, 1960. Their enduring partnership has weathered the test of time, supporting each other through the highs and lows of a life dedicated to service.
The Greer family legacy extends beyond the pulpit, as proud parents to Kathy Greear and her husband, Randy Greear, as well as Kenny Greer and his wife, Vickie Greer. The tight-knit family reflects the values of faith, love, and community that have been a cornerstone of Pastor Greer’s teachings.
Congregants and well-wishers are invited to join the community in welcoming back Reverend Bill Greer to the church where his spiritual journey began over 52 years ago. As the congregation gathers for the “Most Thankful Monday” service, they anticipate not only an evening of inspiration but a celebration of a lifetime dedicated to faith and service.
