By William H. Perkins Jr.
Editor
The Executive Committee of the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board (MBCB) on May 4 approved Tanner Cade as the new MBCB communication services director and filled the director slot at a Baptist Student Union (BSU).
Cade, media director at Temple Church, Hattiesburg, replaces Ian Richardson, who retired at the end of 2020. Zach Hardy will take the helm of the BSU at Delta State University in Cleveland.
In addition, the Executive Committee elevated the Disaster Relief ministry to a stand-alone department from its position as a component of the MBCB Men’s Ministry Department, and approved Hubert Yates as the director. A bivocational pastor with extensive emergency services experience, Yates has been serving as the disaster relief consultant in the Men’s Ministry Department since October of last year.
Cade holds a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Meteorology degree (2008) from Mississippi State University (MSU) in Starkville, and a Graduate Certificate from New Orleans Seminary (2011). He previously served as media director at First Church, Bryan, Texas (2011-2012); video director at Temple Church (2010-2011); and MSU sports video assistant (2006-2008).
“We’re looking forward to Tanner Cade joining us as our communication services director on June 1,” said Shawn Parker, MBCB executive director-treasurer. “The importance of media has never been more important, as we attempt to assist our churches in making disciples.
“Tanner brings a wealth of experience and a keen eye for connecting with every generation through available media avenues. I’m confident he’ll continue our heritage of moving forward in the ever-changing world of media communications.”
In a written statement to The Baptist Record, Cade said, “Why am I excited about this opportunity? Over the last year, God has stirred my heart to help other churches. Now today I am honored to faithfully follow God’s lead by serving across the state through the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board. I am looking forward to serving alongside Dr. Parker and the whole staff.”
“Why am I excited about this opportunity? Over the last year, God has stirred my heart to help other churches. Now today I am honored to faithfully follow God’s lead by serving across the state through the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board.”
Tanner Cade, MBCB communication service director
Hardy holds a Masters of Divinity degree (2015) from Southwestern Seminary in Ft. Worth, Texas, and a Bachelor of Psychology degree (2009) from DSU. The Hernando native has been serving as the manager of the Brandon Athletic Club in Brandon (2016-present), after a stint with the LifeWay Christian Store (2015-2016) in Jackson.
He has also served as a high school teacher, children’s minister, minister of music and education, youth pastor, and community life aide.
“I’m thankful to have Zach Hardy join us as our BSU Director on the Delta State campus,” Parker said. “Zach has both the love for college students and for the Mississippi Delta that is needed to impact the DSU campus with the Gospel. I’m looking forward to hearing how the Lord uses him to build on the strong foundation of ministry that is already there.”
The Executive Committee also reclassified MBCB Computer Information Services (CIS) to full department status and moved Trish Shotts, a 39-year CIS employee, from manager to director. Debbie Thomas, CIS programmer/analyst since 1990, was promoted to CIS consultant.
“Since these two professionals were hired, technology has certainly expanded and now impacts every aspect of our ministry,” said Barri A. Shirley, MBCB Chief Operating Officer. “Both promotions are commensurate to and in recognition of the excellent service and significant responsibilities of Mrs. Shotts and Mrs. Thomas.”
