Robby Black
Head Pastor
I was born on July 3, 1979, to my parents, Barbara and Lloyd Black — and from my very first days, Bates Hill Church has been home. I was baptized as an infant on December 30, 1979, surrounded by a church family that helped shape my faith, my character, and my love for Jesus. I’ve never known any other church, and I thank God for that. Years later, as part of my ordination on August 22, 2021, I chose to be re-baptized — not because my first baptism wasn’t meaningful, but because I wanted to personally and consciously declare my commitment to Christ. I wanted it to be my decision — a moment I could remember, cherish, and stand on. Through every season, this church has walked with me, watched me grow, and helped me become who I am today.
In 2001, I married my beautiful wife, Jessica, and God has blessed us with twenty-four years of marriage and twenty-five years together. She has stood beside me through every victory, every doubt, and every calling I’ve wrestled with. When God called me into ministry in 2016, I honestly fought Him. I felt confused, overwhelmed, and at times like I was losing my mind. That struggle eventually led me to one of our elders, Bob Davenport. With tears in my eyes, I poured everything out — my fear, my questions, my calling. After listening carefully, Bob said something that frustrated me for a split second: “Robby, it sounds like you need to get out of the way and let God work.” But the moment I heard it — truly heard it — everything clicked. I realized I had been the one standing in God’s way. That conversation changed everything. The anxiety lifted. The confusion broke. For the first time, I surrendered.
Since that day, I have done my very best to seek the Lord and follow His will wherever He leads. I’ve learned that when you fully surrender, God blesses you in ways you never imagined. Life doesn’t become perfect — there are still trials, storms, and moments of uncertainty — but there is a peace found only in a real relationship with Jesus. Today, I am honored to pastor Bates Hill full-time while also serving as Regional Director for Mindscape Creative, sharing the gospel through the Truth Traveler immersive experience with people from around the world. My heart is simple: I just want to share Jesus with as many people as I can — right here at Bates Hill, in our community, and wherever God opens a door — until the Lord calls me home.
In 2001, I married my beautiful wife, Jessica, and God has blessed us with twenty-four years of marriage and twenty-five years together. She has stood beside me through every victory, every doubt, and every calling I’ve wrestled with. When God called me into ministry in 2016, I honestly fought Him. I felt confused, overwhelmed, and at times like I was losing my mind. That struggle eventually led me to one of our elders, Bob Davenport. With tears in my eyes, I poured everything out — my fear, my questions, my calling. After listening carefully, Bob said something that frustrated me for a split second: “Robby, it sounds like you need to get out of the way and let God work.” But the moment I heard it — truly heard it — everything clicked. I realized I had been the one standing in God’s way. That conversation changed everything. The anxiety lifted. The confusion broke. For the first time, I surrendered.
Since that day, I have done my very best to seek the Lord and follow His will wherever He leads. I’ve learned that when you fully surrender, God blesses you in ways you never imagined. Life doesn’t become perfect — there are still trials, storms, and moments of uncertainty — but there is a peace found only in a real relationship with Jesus. Today, I am honored to pastor Bates Hill full-time while also serving as Regional Director for Mindscape Creative, sharing the gospel through the Truth Traveler immersive experience with people from around the world. My heart is simple: I just want to share Jesus with as many people as I can — right here at Bates Hill, in our community, and wherever God opens a door — until the Lord calls me home.
Nathaniel Whitaker
Ministry & Teaching Assistant
Nathaniel Whitaker serves as Ministry and Teaching Assistant at Bates Hill Church. He is a dedicated man of God with a sincere love for Scripture, a passion for truth, and a deep desire to see people grow in a real, life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ.
Nathaniel approaches ministry with humility, faithfulness, and a servant’s heart. He is committed to teaching biblical truth clearly and faithfully, helping others understand God’s Word and apply it to everyday life. Whether assisting in teaching, supporting ministry efforts, or walking alongside others in discipleship, Nathaniel’s heart is always focused on pointing people to Christ—not himself.
Recently married to the love of his life, Nathaniel is building his home on the foundation of faith, prayer, and obedience to God’s calling. He and his wife desire to honor the Lord in their marriage and in their service to the church. Bates Hill Church is grateful for Nathaniel’s faithfulness, his teachable spirit, and his commitment to serving wherever the Lord leads.
Nathaniel approaches ministry with humility, faithfulness, and a servant’s heart. He is committed to teaching biblical truth clearly and faithfully, helping others understand God’s Word and apply it to everyday life. Whether assisting in teaching, supporting ministry efforts, or walking alongside others in discipleship, Nathaniel’s heart is always focused on pointing people to Christ—not himself.
Recently married to the love of his life, Nathaniel is building his home on the foundation of faith, prayer, and obedience to God’s calling. He and his wife desire to honor the Lord in their marriage and in their service to the church. Bates Hill Church is grateful for Nathaniel’s faithfulness, his teachable spirit, and his commitment to serving wherever the Lord leads.