[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 5, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1206]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





    HONORING PASTOR BILL COATES OF FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH GAINESVILLE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DOUG COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 5, 2018

  Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
career of Pastor Bill Coates of the First Baptist Church of 
Gainesville. After 20 years of service to the church, Pastor Coates 
delivered his final sermon on August 19, 2018.
  A native of South Carolina, Pastor Coates spent most of his childhood 
knowing that he would eventually join the ministry. In 1998, he and his 
family moved to Northeast Georgia so that he could become Senior Pastor 
at First Baptist Gainesville.
  Pastor Coates always referred to First Baptist Gainesville's 
congregation as the ``people of the church'' to remind them that they 
are the Lord's people first and foremost. During his tenure, First 
Baptist Gainesville expanded, adding a new banquet hall and the 
church's Jubilee Garden to accommodate a growing family of members. 
Pastor Coates also led groups of Georgians to serve in places like 
Ireland and Panama.
  As a leader, Pastor Coates looked beyond his own needs, focusing on 
the spiritual growth of others in the Gainesville community. His 
selflessness ultimately led him to retire, a decision that he hopes 
will pave the way for new leadership to make a positive impact on the 
many faces of the congregation.
  Pastor Coates' servant heart touched the lives of many. I want to 
thank him for the 20 years he dedicated to First Baptist Gainesville 
and hope his retirement is filled with both rest and new adventures.

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