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Retiring First Baptist pastor Bill Coates candidly discusses his struggles, hopes and theology
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The Rev. Dr. Bill Coates, senior pastor at First Baptist Church of Gainesville, is retiring Aug. 19 after 20 years leading the church. Coates told the congregation, “I’ve allowed myself to become depleted and distracted in focus, so it is good and it is right for you and for me that I begin my retirement.” - photo by Scott Rogers
Don’t be surprised if you someday see the Rev. Bill Coates wearing an apron and selling hammers. “I’d love to go to work at Lowe’s or Home Depot, have a good normal job and come home at the end of the day and not have to bring stuff home in my mind,” he said with a wide smile. Coates far from regrets his 47 years in ministry, including 20 as senior pastor at First Baptist Church of Gainesville on Green Street, but it’s a career that can take a toll on mind, body and soul.