MEET THE STAFF

My name is Cecil Barden and my wife is named Joyce. We have been married for twenty-eight years. We have one daughter and one son. My daughter’s name is Alora and she’s a 2022 graduate of the University of Georgia. Go Dawgs! She is presently at Mercer School of Medicine
in the Preclinical Science Graduate program. My son’s name is Aren and he’s a 2022 graduate of Dodge County High school in Eastman, Georgia. He is presently a freshman at Middle Ga. State University in Cochran Georgia. I am a graduate of Dodge County High school. I am the Pastor and Founder of Faith in Action Baptist Church in Eastman, Georgia. Also, I have a B.S. Degree
in Criminal Justice from Mercer University and a Master of Divinity degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. I am currently working on my Doctorate of Ministry through New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

My name is Calvin Butler, and I serve as the Executive Associate Pastor at Faith In Action since 2009. My wife’s name is Brenda, and we have been married 39 years. We have two sons Thaddeus and Calvin Jr. We also have 12 grandkids. I graduated from West Laurens High School, Warner Robins Regional Bible Institute with a certificate in Encountering The Old Testament in 2012, Faith Bible Institute in 2017 with a certificate in biblical studies, and Oconee Fall Line Technical College where I studied Business Management in 2021. All of my accomplishments are to help build “MORE AND BETTER DISCIPLES” for the Lord.

Jonathan Dean, originally from Rome, GA, has served as the minister of music at Faith in Action Baptist Church since 2008. A veteran of the United States Air Force (2001–2007), he brings over 20 years of musicianship and leadership to his ministry. He holds a B.A. in Music Education from Georgia Southwestern (2014) and a Master’s in Education Leadership (2021). Guided by the mission, "Love God, Reach People," Jonathan inspires worship through his passion for music and service.

Jonathan is a loving husband to Ladonna Dean and a proud father of five. His dedication to creating vibrant, spirit-filled worship experiences and mentoring others has made him a cornerstone of the church’s music ministry.

My name is Chris Parker and my wife is named Brittany. We have been married for eight years. We have one daughter, my daughter's name is No' Lynn Everleigh. I am the Media Director/Church Secretary of Faith in Action Baptist Church in Eastman, Georgia. I have been serving as the Media Director since 2017 and as church secretary since February 2025. I have a B.S. Degree in technology, a Masters certificate in Microsoft Office all from Liberty University. I am also studying to be a preacher.