By Jheri Hardaway
Staff Writer
In North Carolina and throughout the south, it is hard to travel a mile without passing by a house of worship. They are plentiful and citizens have a vast amount of choices when deciding where they would like to pray and build community. There are several churches that stand out as pillars of the community and undoubtedly First Baptist Church located 101 South Wilmington St. stands tall among the options. A pillar of the Raleigh community for more than 217 years this past weekend the church installed the 11th pastor in their significant history. This was a celebration of history, legacy, and togetherness, as Reverend Darien C. Bouie and his family were welcomed and honored by all. From church and community members to elected officials and leaders of local institutions the church was overflowing with love and encouragement. Clergy from across the nation laid hands on Rev. Bouie and shared inspiring and insightful words charging the church and the new pastor to uphold their roles to continue the legacy of the historic church and to “do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.”
One of the most tender moments came from outgoing pastor to Revered Dr. Dumas Harshaw Jr, who was celebrated for his “faithful encouragement.” One of the speakers, Reverend Shalmon Radford artfully noted that it was, “good to see a baton being passed not thrown, poor transitions are an issue in our community.” This powerful point was appreciated by the audience as it was noted that Reverend Bouie is the youngest minister in the history of First Baptist Church. One of the goals noted is to encourage more young people to attend and engage with the church and this installation is a significant step in the right direction.
Reverend Darian C. Bouie, M.Div., he is a dynamic preacher, visionary leader, and now the youngest Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. His ministry is centered on conviction, the transformative power of the Gospel, equipping people, and building bridges between faith, family, and community.
Pastor Bouie's educational journey includes a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Morehouse College, where he was a Chaplain's Assistant and played on the golf team winning three SIAC Championships. He earned his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University and is currently pursuing his Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree at United Theological Seminary. His ministry experience includes serving in numerous roles under the leadership of Elder Kenneth A. Duke at New Jerusalem Primitive Baptist Church, including Youth and College Pastor and Assistant Pastor. Prior to his current call, he served as the Senior Pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Pastor Bouie is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Morehouse College Alumni Association, and the NAACP. He is also a Level I certified coach for The First Tee. Pastor Bouie is deeply devoted to his family. He and his inspiring wife, Tyfany Bouie M.Ed., are the proud parents of three children: Parker, Savannah, and Maverick. Raleigh welcomes Pastor Bouie and family and look forward to his "commitment to building bridges between faith, family, and community."
