Our Staff

The staff here at First Baptist is well-equipped and engaged in ministering to the lost and saved.  They work together to glorify God and love people.  They are fun and energetic, but have a heart for those that do not know Christ and show love unrelentingly.  They love one another and work together to achieve what they believe is God's vision for our church.

  • Eric Harriman, Pastor

    Bro. Eric came to First Baptist Church in June 2003 from Faith Baptist Church from Baker, Louisiana, for the position of Associate Pastor/Youth. In 2005 the church called Bro. Eric to Senior Pastor where he serves with his wife, Jodi.


  • Matt Powell, Music Minister

    Matt Powell graduated from Louisiana College with a Bachelor of Arts in Music: Worship Leadership in May of 2014 and in June came on as full-time Music Minister. Matt leads worship, directs Adult and Youth Choirs, and administrates Children's Choirs at FBC. He also helps to update the church's website and does the media presentation for the services each week. Matt is married to Keri Beth Powell, who is a music teacher at Caldwell Parish Junior High, and also helps to direct the 1st-3rd grade children's choir. They have been married since October 4, 2014. Matt's goal as music minister is to foster a love for music and a desire to glorify God through worship and love of people.

  • John Carroll, Men's Minister

    John has a passion for God's word! He also has a passion to see the men of our communitybecome the men God has called them to be. Through discipleship and many opportunities to serve, our Men's Ministry is always challenging our men to be the spiritual leaders God desires.

  • Sonja Carroll, Women's Minister

    Sonja was born and raised in the Columbia area and brings a unique gift of compassion and kindness to our church. She has a heart for God's word and strives to give the ladies of all ages in First Bapstist Church opportunities to grow and serve. Sonja is a talented singer and served as Music Minister for the church until answering God's call to women's ministry in 2013.

  • Russell Flint, Youth Minister

    Our youth are lucky to have such a God-fearing man to lead them. With his wife, Amy, Ruseell teaches sound biblical doctrine as well as practical application. First Baptist Church offers many opportunities for students to experience Chrsit through Bible Studies, Summer Mission/Camp trips as well as activities all year long.

  • Caleb Hatten, Children's and Activities Minister

    Caleb has a real passion for serving Christ. Caleb grew up in Columbia before moving away in his early 20's. Upon his return, Caleb surrendered to the call of ministry and began serving as the Children and Activity Minister for the church. Caleb has a desire to see our children learn about Christ in an exciting church atmosphere. The children's ministry of First Baptist Church offers lots of opportunities for children to learn about what it means to be a Christian and how to serve Christ.

  • Sawyer Lincecum, Office Administrator

    Sawyer coordinates the church office and the many tasks of the church. Sawyer was born and raised in Columbia and lives here with her husband, Michael and their two children. Sawyer has a passion for organization and a desire to see First Baptist grow in this community.