PARIS, Ky. — First Baptist Church in Paris celebrated the arrival of its 13th pastor, L. Rodney Bennett, during a Sunday afternoon service that introduced the new religious leader to the congregation, according to LEX 18 News.

Bennett, a Frankfort resident who previously worked for the Department of Education, said he is honored to lead the historic congregation. "It's a great day to be alive, and a greater day to be alive in Christ Jesus," Bennett told members during the celebration. "When I have the opportunity to be a pastor of such an illustrious church, it gives me great challenge, it gives me great privilege to be able to stand and teach God's people."

The pastor outlined his vision for the church, emphasizing unity and inclusion across racial, gender and denominational lines. "God wants unity in his community," Bennett said, noting that his interpretation of scripture calls for bringing together "all people, all kindreds, all races, all genders."

The celebration gave church members an opportunity to meet Bennett and his wife, referred to as the First Lady, and to learn about his priorities for the congregation's future. Lisa Warfield Johnson, a lifelong member of the church, expressed enthusiasm about Bennett's appointment.

"We are so happy. We're overjoyed and we just thank God for everything," Johnson said. She praised Bennett's deep faith and biblical knowledge, saying "when you have that [love of the Lord], everything else falls into place. He knows the bible. He prays, he reads, he studies, he teaches, and we feel that he's just right for such a time as this."

Bennett said the strong support from church members will enable the congregation to move forward collectively. "When we have that kind of support, we can go forth collectively, unitedly, to do great things and to make certain we are standing flat-footed and delivering on things that are necessary in this age and time," he said.