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SBC DIGEST: SEBTS names new communications director; Psalm 139 places ultrasound in Tennessee


Nathaniel Williams named director of marketing and communications at SEBTS

By SEBTS Staff

WAKE FOREST, N.C. (BP) – In October 2024, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary marked a significant transition in its Marketing and Communications team with the departure of former director Rebecca Pate, who served in the role for three years before moving to a new role with InterVarsity Press.

Southeastern announce Wednesday (Jan. 15) that Nathaniel Williams will take over the role of director of marketing and communications. Nathaniel, a Southeastern alumnus with a Master of Divinity, brings a rich history of Southeastern service and professional experience. Over the past nine years, he has been an integral part of Southeastern’s staff, contributing significantly to the Marketing and Communications team and the L. Russ Bush Center for Faith and Culture by developing digital and podcast content.

“I am delighted to welcome Nathaniel Williams to our team,” said Jonathan Six, vice president for institutional advancement. “He brings valuable expertise in content management, social media marketing, and deep knowledge of Southern Baptist life. His strong background in marketing, combined with his pastoral experience, equips him with excellent insights on effectively communicating Southeastern’s Great Commission vision. I look forward to collaborating with him in the days ahead.”

Nathaniel is a seasoned communicator whose work has appeared in prominent outlets such as Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition and numerous other publications. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Nathaniel has pastored Cedar Rock First Baptist Church in Louisburg, North Carolina, for more than nine years. He and his wife Katie have four children.

When he is not serving in his professional roles, Nathaniel enjoys reading, tending to his garden, and — perhaps most enthusiastically — cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs.


Psalm 139 Project to dedicate ultrasound machine in Hartsville, Tenn.

By ERLC Staff

NASHVILLE (BP) – The Psalm 139 Project, a pro-life ministry of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, has donated an ultrasound machine to Community Pregnancy Center (CPC) in Hartsville, Tenn., in partnership with the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board.

A dedication ceremony will be held Jan. 17 from 10:30 a.m.-noon CST at Beating Hearts Help Center located at 755 E McMurry Blvd, Hartsville, TN, 37074. Rachel Wiles, director of The Psalm 139 Project, along with Jill Waggoner, ERLC strategic project manager and communications strategist, will be attending the dedication ceremony.

“Community Pregnancy Center plays an essential role in this community, meeting the real needs of women and families, reminding them of God’s love, and helping them to imagine the healthy and happy future that’s possible,” said Waggoner. “It is such a privilege for the ERLC to support the center in this way, and dedicate this life-saving ultrasound machine together for future ministry.” 

CPC has been providing resources and support for young women and families since 2017 facing the challenges of an unplanned pregnancy. All services are free and available to everyone regardless of race, religion, age, or gender. 

“Since receiving this machine, we have had two abortion-minded women come to our facility who, after seeing the image of their baby on the screen, changed their minds and chose life,” said Peg Shonebarger, director of Community Pregnancy Center. “Two lives saved since August. We are so grateful for ERLC and the Psalm 139 Project.” 

One hundred percent of financial contributions designated to the Psalm 139 Project go toward purchasing ultrasound machines and providing training for workers. No ERLC Cooperative Program resources are used for these machines. Tax-deductible gifts may be made online to The Psalm 139 Project, or via check to ERLC, 901 Commerce Street, Nashville, Tenn., 37203. Learn more at Psalm139project.org.

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  • BP Staff