We Are The Church… The Body of Christ
We believe the church is not merely a place you attend, but a community of believers called to live out the gospel. As the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27), the church is God’s instrument for His work in the world (Ephesians 4:11-13). We invite you to join us in fulfilling the mission He has given to His church (Matthew 28:18-20). There are many ways for you to get involved and grow in faith.
EMBC Kids & Mountain Adventure Camp – MAC (Birth – 6th)
The EMBC Kids Ministry and Mountain Adventure Camp (MAC) work together to nurture children’s spiritual growth and empower families. Led by Children’s Minister Leslie Hooper and afterschool program director Gaile Lanier, our goal is to help kids build a real relationship with Jesus and see the Bible as a source of life-changing guidance.
Through engaging programs like MAC (for grades K-6), we foster lasting faith, providing both afterschool care and opportunities for spiritual development. Our focus on family discipleship encourages children to embrace the transformative power of Christ in their everyday lives.
The Rooted Youth (7-12th Grade)
The Rooted Youth Ministry is led by Youth Pastor Gara Handorf, who has been serving on staff since December 2010. Gara, along with his wife Amie and their three sons, is passionate about reaching today’s youth with the unchanging truth of the gospel. His goal is to help students grow in their relationship with Christ and stand firm in their faith, regardless of how the world changes. Gara’s favorite verses, Romans 5:8 and Acts 4:19-20, reflect his commitment to sharing God’s love and truth, no matter the cost.
On Wednesdays, we offer Homework and Hangout from 3:45 PM to 7:30 PM, where students can complete homework, enjoy fellowship, and participate in faith-building activities. Rooted Youth encourages students to deepen their relationship with Christ and live out their faith in a changing world.
Mountain Men’s Ministry
The Mountain Men’s Ministry at East Mountain Baptist Church is focused on helping men grow in their faith as followers of Christ, husbands, fathers, and leaders. In a world that often misinterprets true masculinity, we teach Biblical Manhood and what God’s Word says about a man’s purpose and role.
Join us for weekly discipleship, prayer, and fellowship, and discover how being a Mountain Man means actively participating in the life and ministry of EMBC. Come explore what it means to live as a real, Biblical, and Godly man.
Women of Worth: Women’s Ministry
The Women of Worth Ministry at East Mountain Baptist Church equips women to embrace their God-given calling and empowers them for service in the church. Through Bible study, fellowship, mission projects, and retreats, we build a supportive sisterhood that spans generations.
We welcome women of all ages and backgrounds to join us, including our Pray-ER Group, which meets every Tuesday to pray for one another and the church. New members are always welcome—check the Sunday bulletin or call the office for more details.
J.O.Y. Just Older Youth Senior Ministry
JOY is a community for individuals 55 and older, focused on growth, service, and joyful fellowship. We offer Sunday Small Groups and Worship on Sundays, along with a community meal and Bible study on Wednesdays. Throughout the year, we host Bible studies, social events, and adventurous outings.
At JOY, we believe as long as you’re breathing, God has incredible plans for you. Come experience the joy and connection that define our group!
Benevolence Team
Our Benevolence Team is dedicated to serving our homebound members and those in need within our community. We visit those who are unable to attend church, offering companionship, prayer, and support. Through acts of kindness, we strive to reflect Christ’s love by meeting both physical and emotional needs.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, we are here to help. Join us in making a difference through service and compassion.
Missions
EMBC has partnered with fellow believers from East Texas to support Talsi Christian School in Latvia through leading and teaching Vacation Bible School. This ministry has had a significant impact on the school, its staff, students, and their families. We invite you to join us in prayer for Inguna Graznina, Founder & Director, and the entire Talsi Christian School community as they continue to spread the love and teachings of Christ. Your support in prayer and giving helps sustain this vital ministry.
The Cross Ministry
The Cross Ministry, led by Wayne Reynolds, is a powerful outreach that spreads the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the creation and distribution of crosses. Supported by Trinity Baptist Church in Lufkin, Texas, the dedicated Cross Men, including Brother Vic Bass, Leo and Vallery Lytle, and others, build and paint crosses that proclaim “Jesus is Lord.” This ministry is a beautiful reminder of the free gift of salvation, offering a bold witness of God’s love to all who encounter it. The message of the cross is as impactful today as ever, reaching people who need to hear the hope of Christ.
Free Bibles: Bibles for Everyone Everywhere Ministry
The Bibles for Everyone Everywhere Ministry is dedicated to distributing Bibles to every person, starting in the United States and expanding globally. Our mission is to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has access to their own personal copy of God’s Word.
Through our website and app, individuals and organizations can locate people in need of Bibles, connect with distributors, and track progress to avoid duplication of efforts. This efficient system allows resources to be used effectively, ensuring more people receive the Bible. In addition to Bible distribution, we support missions that include food programs, home visits, and prayer ministries, aiming to serve both the spiritual and practical needs of communities.
EMBC Worship Ministry
Our Worship Ministry is dedicated to glorifying God through a blend of musical expressions. We combine contemporary worship songs with traditional hymns to create a rich and diverse worship experience that honors Jesus Christ.
Our Mission:
Our mission is to lead the congregation in worship that draws us closer to God and unites us in praise. We believe music is a divine gift, meant to elevate worship and foster community.
- Worship Choir: The choir rehearses regularly and leads worship every Sunday morning, bringing heartfelt and uplifting music to our services.
- Praise Band: This group enhances our worship with dynamic, contemporary music that inspires and energizes our congregation.
Join Us:
Whether you’re an experienced musician or simply enjoy singing, we invite you to be part of our ministry.
Sunday Schedule:
- 8:15 AM: Praise Band Rehearsal
- 9:00 AM: Worship Choir Run-Through
- 10:30 AM: Worship Choir Meets
- 10:45 AM: Morning Worship Service
- 4:30 PM: Worship Choir Rehearsal
Come join us and help make a joyful noise unto the Lord!
“Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.” — Psalm 33:3
