Editors Note: In order to allow messengers to the BCI Annual Meeting to get to know candidates that will be nominated for officer positions during the Annual Meeting, we have encouraged registered messengers to submit a statement of their intent to nominate an individual. For more information go to bciowa.org/intenttonominate.
President
Nominee: Jim Parker
Church: Sojourn Church, Council Bluffs
Years of Service in Current Pastorate: 8 years
Previous Service
  • BCI Executive Board since 2013
  • Youth Pastor, 25 years
  • Heartland Church Network Board
  • Heartland Christian School Board
  • Pottawattamie County School Safety and Security Task Force
  • Us Air Force, 20 years
I am nominating Jim Parker because I believe he is a good candidate for the position of president. He has faithfully served on the BCI Executive Board since 2013. Jim served our country in the US Air Force for 20 years. He is skilled and experienced in servant-hood and leadership.
In ministry, Jim has led students as a Youth Pastor for 25 years. He planted and now pastors Sojourn Church. His wisdom and experience are sought after by many as he also serves on the Heartland Church Network Board, the Heartland Christian School Board, and the Pottawattamie County School Safety and Security Task Force. His real strength though is his capacity to love and to lead people in ministry. He is training young pastors, teaching in school, and leading his congregation to minister effectively to the people of Council Bluffs.
Nominator: Pastor Robert Knight, New Birth Baptist Church, Ames
First Vice President
Nominee: Pastor Todd Stiles
Church: First Family Church, Ankeny
Years of Service in Current Pastorate: 14 years
Previous Service
  • 2nd Vice President
  • News Letter Committee
  • Executive Board by virtue of office
  • Church Based – Church Planting Catalyst
It will be my privilege to place in nomination the name of Pastor Todd Stiles, of First Family Church in Ankeny, for the office of 1st Vice-President of the Baptist Convention of Iowa. Todd has been the pastor of First Family since it was planted in Partnership with the BCI 14 years ago. He is a proven leader, conscientious pastor and teacher, and a devoted family man. He and his wife Julie have four grown children and seven grandchildren.
Pastor Todd has previously served as the 2nd Vice President of the Convention, and in this role has participated in the Executive Board and leadership structure. He is committed to church growth and church planting and acts as one of the Church Based – Church Planting Catalysts. Todd is respected among his fellow pastors and community leaders, and is an effective mentor to young pastors. He is also currently serving as our Iowa representative on the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention. He is an innovative servant leader and a team player, who will serve us well.
Nominator: Eric Trout, Lead Pastor/Planter, Restoration Church
Second Vice President
Nominee: Michael Felkins
Church: Grand Avenue Baptist Church, Ames
Years of Service in Current Pastorate: 9 ½ Years
Previous Service
  • 28 years of Pastoral Ministry
  • BCI Executive Board, 2012-2013
  • 2018 SBC Credentials Committee
Michael Felkins is a servant of Jesus Christ, a faithful husband and father, and a devoted pastor. He prioritizes the ministry of the local church. He faithfully teaches the Bible, showing his congregation how the Gospel applies to life.
Pastor Felkins leads his church to generously support the Cooperative Program and the Baptist Convention of Iowa. He cares for, encourages, cooperates with, and associates with BCI pastors. He leads and participates in missions efforts to build evangelistic relationships with unreached peoples (both international and local).
Pastor Felkins’ leadership is shaped by robust biblical conviction and a humility that is willing to listen to, learn from, and partner with others. As such, he will serve the BCI well.
Nominator: Eric Schumacher, Associate Pastor at Grand Avenue Baptist, Ames