Rev. Dr. Michael A. Bridges
Pastor
Dr. Michael A. Bridges, a native of Gaffney, South Carolina, attended the public schools of Cherokee County beginning at Alma Elementary School and graduating from Gaffney High School. He was a star athlete who especially excelled in football. Upon graduation, he entered Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina on a football scholarship where he received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology. He later attended Heavens Avenue Baptist Seminary in Shelby, North Carolina where he received his Master of Divinity (M. Div.) and Doctorate of Divinity (D.D.) degrees.
Dr. Bridges acknowledged the call to preach on March 17, 1996 and began his interim year as pastor in June 1998. He was later installed as the pastor of his home church, Concord Baptist Church, in June of 1999 where he has served for 26 years. Under his leadership, the church continues to grow, building upon the work of his predecessors. Pastor Bridges continues to make God’s vision a reality. In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Dr. Bridges is also serving as a chaplain for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, as a member of the the Cherokee County School District Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, and is on his third term as a part of the Cherokee County Community Foundation Board. He has also served on various boards including the 2020 Cherokee County Visioning and Strategic Planning Committee. He is a Past Moderator of the Thickety Mountain Baptist Association.
Dr. Bridges and his wife Denise are proud parents of two children: Micaela and John Michael. He is an anointed man of God whose ultimate goal is reaching the lost for Christ.
Dr. Bridges acknowledged the call to preach on March 17, 1996 and began his interim year as pastor in June 1998. He was later installed as the pastor of his home church, Concord Baptist Church, in June of 1999 where he has served for 26 years. Under his leadership, the church continues to grow, building upon the work of his predecessors. Pastor Bridges continues to make God’s vision a reality. In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Dr. Bridges is also serving as a chaplain for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, as a member of the the Cherokee County School District Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, and is on his third term as a part of the Cherokee County Community Foundation Board. He has also served on various boards including the 2020 Cherokee County Visioning and Strategic Planning Committee. He is a Past Moderator of the Thickety Mountain Baptist Association.
Dr. Bridges and his wife Denise are proud parents of two children: Micaela and John Michael. He is an anointed man of God whose ultimate goal is reaching the lost for Christ.
Reverend Angelia Early
Associate Minister
Reverend Angelia Tuft Early is a native of Shelby, North Carolina; she was educated in the Cleveland County, North Carolina Schools. She received an Associate of Arts Degree in Religion from Agape Bible College, Gastonia, North Carolina. She accepted her call into the ministry and preached her initial sermon “You Have Been Born Once, But Have You Been Born Again” in 1991 at The St. James Baptist Church. She was ordained by the Gaston Baptist Association in 1999. She worked diligently serving as the Assistant Pastor and the Past Orientation Director, Director of Couples Ministry, and Sunday School Teacher. Rev. Early is currently a member at Concord Baptist Church in Gaffney, S.C. under the ministry of Dr. Michael Bridges, Senior Pastor where she also currently serves as a Sunday School teacher and Young Adult Ministry Advisor.
In the community, Rev. Early has served as a Clergy Assistant for the Gaston Memorial Hospital and as a Volunteer for the Dallas Correctional Facilities. She is also trained as a Chaplain for Gaston Hospice and a volunteer for Wendover Hospice of Shelby. Additionally, Rev. Early served on the board of City Council as a Commissioner in the town of Grover, NC from 2013 – 2019.
Rev. Early has been married to her best friend, Deacon Eugene Early, Jr. for over thirty years. They have two children, Larie Carthen and Justin Early. They also have three grandsons, and a son-in-law, Shon Carthen.
Motto: Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
In the community, Rev. Early has served as a Clergy Assistant for the Gaston Memorial Hospital and as a Volunteer for the Dallas Correctional Facilities. She is also trained as a Chaplain for Gaston Hospice and a volunteer for Wendover Hospice of Shelby. Additionally, Rev. Early served on the board of City Council as a Commissioner in the town of Grover, NC from 2013 – 2019.
Rev. Early has been married to her best friend, Deacon Eugene Early, Jr. for over thirty years. They have two children, Larie Carthen and Justin Early. They also have three grandsons, and a son-in-law, Shon Carthen.
Motto: Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
Minister Loretta Holmes
Associate Minister
Dr. Loretta A. Holmes is a woman on divine assignment. A native of Gaffney, South Carolina, she is the beloved wife of Bryant Holmes and the proud mother of their son, Jeremiah O’Bryant, a young man who carries the legacy of faith and purpose.
A product of the Cherokee County School System, Minister Holmes is a testament to what God can do when purpose meets preparation. After graduating from Gaffney High School, she pursued her calling in education at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, earning a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She didn’t stop there. She continued to equip herself for the work ahead, receiving a Master of Education from Southern Wesleyan University, a Master of Arts in School Administration and Supervision from Gardner-Webb University, and ultimately, a Doctorate in Curriculum and Teaching from Northcentral University. Today, she serves as the proud principal of Luther Vaughan Elementary School, leading with wisdom, compassion, and excellence.
Yet, with all her academic accolades and professional accomplishments, Minister Holmes will be the first to tell you none of it compares to the greatest gift she’s ever received: the gift of salvation. That’s her true foundation. That’s her anchor. She is unapologetically rooted in the Word of God and lives each day with a heart surrendered to His will.
In October 2002, Minister Holmes joined Concord Baptist Church in Gaffney, SC, under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Michael A. Bridges. It was there that she accepted her call to preach the Gospel in October 2011. She preached her initial sermon on December 8, 2013, and was officially licensed as a minister. Today, she serves faithfully as a Sunday School teacher, Young Adult Ministry adviser, and Praise & Worship Team Leader. Whether she’s teaching the Word, lifting her voice in praise, or simply encouraging someone with a smile, Minister Holmes carries the anointing of a servant leader.
Her journey has not been without trials. She has walked through seasons that could’ve broken her, moments that could’ve silenced her but instead, they refined her. She stands today, not as a victim, but as a vessel poured out and ready to be used for the glory of God. Her life declares the truth of Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Dr. Loretta A. Holmes lives by the belief that when God can trust her to be a vessel, He’ll never fail to provide the flow. Her prayer is simple: “Lord, let my light shine. Use me to reach your people. Let every part of my life be a reflection of You.” And if you ever encounter her, you’ll know you’ve just met someone who walks boldly in purpose, led by grace, and fueled by the fire of the Holy Spirit.
A product of the Cherokee County School System, Minister Holmes is a testament to what God can do when purpose meets preparation. After graduating from Gaffney High School, she pursued her calling in education at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, earning a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She didn’t stop there. She continued to equip herself for the work ahead, receiving a Master of Education from Southern Wesleyan University, a Master of Arts in School Administration and Supervision from Gardner-Webb University, and ultimately, a Doctorate in Curriculum and Teaching from Northcentral University. Today, she serves as the proud principal of Luther Vaughan Elementary School, leading with wisdom, compassion, and excellence.
Yet, with all her academic accolades and professional accomplishments, Minister Holmes will be the first to tell you none of it compares to the greatest gift she’s ever received: the gift of salvation. That’s her true foundation. That’s her anchor. She is unapologetically rooted in the Word of God and lives each day with a heart surrendered to His will.
In October 2002, Minister Holmes joined Concord Baptist Church in Gaffney, SC, under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Michael A. Bridges. It was there that she accepted her call to preach the Gospel in October 2011. She preached her initial sermon on December 8, 2013, and was officially licensed as a minister. Today, she serves faithfully as a Sunday School teacher, Young Adult Ministry adviser, and Praise & Worship Team Leader. Whether she’s teaching the Word, lifting her voice in praise, or simply encouraging someone with a smile, Minister Holmes carries the anointing of a servant leader.
Her journey has not been without trials. She has walked through seasons that could’ve broken her, moments that could’ve silenced her but instead, they refined her. She stands today, not as a victim, but as a vessel poured out and ready to be used for the glory of God. Her life declares the truth of Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Dr. Loretta A. Holmes lives by the belief that when God can trust her to be a vessel, He’ll never fail to provide the flow. Her prayer is simple: “Lord, let my light shine. Use me to reach your people. Let every part of my life be a reflection of You.” And if you ever encounter her, you’ll know you’ve just met someone who walks boldly in purpose, led by grace, and fueled by the fire of the Holy Spirit.
Minister Stephanie Tate
Associate Minister
Minister Stephanie Tate is a native of Gaffney, S.C. She is the daughter of the late Bennie Lee and the late Doris Crosby. She is the wife of Timothy Tate, and they are the proud parents of two daughters, Aquinnda Dorchae’ and Jada Vinnice.
Min. Tate is a 1987 graduate of Gaffney Senior High School. She attended King’s College in Charlotte, N.C., where she obtained a Degree in Accounting. She also attended the NJ Brockman School of Religion, where she obtained a degree in Biblical Studies. She has also obtained a diploma in Paralegal Studies from Stratford Career Institute.
In September 1982, Min. Tate was baptized and joined the Concord Baptist Church, serving in various organizations. She is currently the President and Director of the Concord Mass Choir, a Sunday School teacher, and a member of the YWA where she is the chaplain. She is the choir director of the TMBA YWA choir, a youth director, and a member of the Health and Safety Committee. She is currently employed by the BMW Corporation as a Production Associate.
Min. Tate is a child of God and her primary mission in life is to EDUCATE, ENCOURAGE, AND EMPOWER THE BODY OF CHRIST. Her favorite scripture is Luke 1:37 which reads: FOR WITH GOD NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE.
Min. Tate is a 1987 graduate of Gaffney Senior High School. She attended King’s College in Charlotte, N.C., where she obtained a Degree in Accounting. She also attended the NJ Brockman School of Religion, where she obtained a degree in Biblical Studies. She has also obtained a diploma in Paralegal Studies from Stratford Career Institute.
In September 1982, Min. Tate was baptized and joined the Concord Baptist Church, serving in various organizations. She is currently the President and Director of the Concord Mass Choir, a Sunday School teacher, and a member of the YWA where she is the chaplain. She is the choir director of the TMBA YWA choir, a youth director, and a member of the Health and Safety Committee. She is currently employed by the BMW Corporation as a Production Associate.
Min. Tate is a child of God and her primary mission in life is to EDUCATE, ENCOURAGE, AND EMPOWER THE BODY OF CHRIST. Her favorite scripture is Luke 1:37 which reads: FOR WITH GOD NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE.
Minister Mae Frances Sarratt
Associate Minister
Minister Mae Frances Sarratt is a Cherokee County, SC native. She is the fifth child of seven to the late Francis and Louise Manning Holmes. She has been married to Deacon Willie Dean Sarratt for forty- six years. They have a son, Pastor Rickie Dean Sarratt; daughter-in-love, Minister Timena; and granddaughters, Ambria and Asha Sarratt, of Gaffney, SC. They also have a daughter, Minster Adrienne Young; son-in-love, Minister Edward; and grandsons, Emanuel and Elisha Young, of Fort Mill, SC.
Minister Mae Frances Sarratt was licensed to preach the gospel on November 25, 2012. She serves as an associate minister at Concord Baptist Church, Gaffney, SC, under the leadership of Dr. Michael A. Bridges. She is as an adult Sunday School teacher and a member of the senior missionary. She is a workshop leader at women conferences and retreats. She is co-chair of the health division of Thickety Mountain Baptist Association. Minister Sarratt is a published author with her most recent writing, “Doing It Alone,” being included in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.
Minister Sarratt was educated in Cherokee County Schools system, Gaffney, SC. She attended Cleveland County Tech, Shelby, NC, and became a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1971. She graduated from York Technical College in 1993 and became a Registered Nurse. She received her BS in Counseling and Human Services from Gardener Webb University, Boling Springs, NC 2003. She has worked in many areas of nursing and retired from the Cherokee County School District 2013.
Minister Sarratt works in the community as a board member for Cherokee County Know2, Application Council of Government for the Aging, and the Silver Haired Legislatures. She is a consultant and Outreach Professional for Cherokee County First Steps.
Minister Sarratt believes Jeremiah 29:13 is for everyone. “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Minister Sarratt’s favorite song is “Falling in Love with Jesus is the Best Thing I’ve Ever Done.”
Minister Mae Frances Sarratt was licensed to preach the gospel on November 25, 2012. She serves as an associate minister at Concord Baptist Church, Gaffney, SC, under the leadership of Dr. Michael A. Bridges. She is as an adult Sunday School teacher and a member of the senior missionary. She is a workshop leader at women conferences and retreats. She is co-chair of the health division of Thickety Mountain Baptist Association. Minister Sarratt is a published author with her most recent writing, “Doing It Alone,” being included in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.
Minister Sarratt was educated in Cherokee County Schools system, Gaffney, SC. She attended Cleveland County Tech, Shelby, NC, and became a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1971. She graduated from York Technical College in 1993 and became a Registered Nurse. She received her BS in Counseling and Human Services from Gardener Webb University, Boling Springs, NC 2003. She has worked in many areas of nursing and retired from the Cherokee County School District 2013.
Minister Sarratt works in the community as a board member for Cherokee County Know2, Application Council of Government for the Aging, and the Silver Haired Legislatures. She is a consultant and Outreach Professional for Cherokee County First Steps.
Minister Sarratt believes Jeremiah 29:13 is for everyone. “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Minister Sarratt’s favorite song is “Falling in Love with Jesus is the Best Thing I’ve Ever Done.”
Reverend Ron Williams
Associate Minister
Rev. Ron Williams is a native of Washington, D.C. He is a product of the DC school system. He has studied at the University of Maryland Overseas Extension School, Maple Springs Baptist Bible College and Seminary, and Spartanburg Technical College.
He joined the military in 1968 and was honorably retired in 1993. He worked as a Parole Drug Case Manager with the Texas Department of Corrections for 5 years. He worked for and retired from the Social Security Administration as a Claims Representative in 2014. Rev. Ron assists veterans with getting their VA benefits in his spare time.
Rev. Ron joined the church as a child and accepted Christ as his personal savior in 1981. He answered his call to the Gospel ministry in 1984 and preached his initial sermon on August 30, 1987. Rev. Ron was ordained to the Gospel Ministry by the Ordaining Counsel of the Gloryland Baptist Church in Houston, TX on September 29, 1996. He has served as a pastor and has carried the Gospel message nationally and internationally.
Rev. Ron is a member of the Concord Baptist Church where he serves as an Associate Minister under the Pastoral Leadership of Dr. Michael A. Bridges.
Rev. Ron’s favorite scripture is John 9:25: He answered and said, “Whether He is a sinner or not I do not know. One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see.” His favorite saying is, “Hold the Light.”
He joined the military in 1968 and was honorably retired in 1993. He worked as a Parole Drug Case Manager with the Texas Department of Corrections for 5 years. He worked for and retired from the Social Security Administration as a Claims Representative in 2014. Rev. Ron assists veterans with getting their VA benefits in his spare time.
Rev. Ron joined the church as a child and accepted Christ as his personal savior in 1981. He answered his call to the Gospel ministry in 1984 and preached his initial sermon on August 30, 1987. Rev. Ron was ordained to the Gospel Ministry by the Ordaining Counsel of the Gloryland Baptist Church in Houston, TX on September 29, 1996. He has served as a pastor and has carried the Gospel message nationally and internationally.
Rev. Ron is a member of the Concord Baptist Church where he serves as an Associate Minister under the Pastoral Leadership of Dr. Michael A. Bridges.
Rev. Ron’s favorite scripture is John 9:25: He answered and said, “Whether He is a sinner or not I do not know. One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see.” His favorite saying is, “Hold the Light.”
Earl Vernon
Minister of Music
Earl Vernon has faithfully served as Minister of Music at Concord Baptist Church for over 20 years, using his gifts to lead the congregation in heartfelt, spirit-filled worship. With a deep passion for music ministry, he has helped shape and strengthen the church’s worship experience through dedication, consistency, and a love for God’s people.
Throughout his years of service, he has worked with choirs, musicians, and praise teams, fostering an environment where worship is both meaningful and uplifting. His commitment to excellence and his heart for ministry continue to inspire those he leads and those he serves.
Throughout his years of service, he has worked with choirs, musicians, and praise teams, fostering an environment where worship is both meaningful and uplifting. His commitment to excellence and his heart for ministry continue to inspire those he leads and those he serves.
Church Leadership
Our church leadership is composed of dedicated men and women who have been prayerfully selected and called to serve in accordance with biblical principles. Each leader plays a vital role in supporting the spiritual growth, stewardship, and overall mission of the church. Through the collective service of our Deacons, Deaconesses, Trustees, and Administrative Staff, Concord is guided with integrity, unity, and a shared commitment to honoring God and serving His people.
Deacon Board
B. Lewis Blanton, Chairman
Deacons serve as spiritual servants of the church, called to support the pastor, care for the congregation, and help meet the needs of the body of Christ. Rooted in biblical teaching, they are men of integrity, faith, and compassion who assist in maintaining unity and order within the church.
Trustee Board
Shannon Bonner, Chairman
Trustees are entrusted with the care, stewardship, and oversight of the church’s property and resources. They work diligently to ensure that all facilities and assets are maintained with wisdom, integrity, and accountability, supporting the church’s mission through faithful management.
Deaconnesses
Vera Leach, Chairwoman
Deaconesses serve with compassion and dedication, assisting in meeting the spiritual and practical needs of the congregation. Through acts of care, hospitality, and support, they help nurture a spirit of love and unity within the church body.
Administrative Staff
Clerk, Secretaries, and Technical Lead
Administrative Staff provide essential support to the daily operations of the church. Through organization, communication, and coordination, they help ensure that ministries function smoothly and effectively, allowing the church to serve with excellence.