For the first time in more than 30 years, LakelandBaptistChurch found itself in a position of seeking a new pastor. When Dr. Ben Smith, Lakeland’s pastor since 1975, announced his retirement in late 2006, the church began its search for their next pastor.

After an 18-month long process, Dr. Ron Osborne was called to lead Lakeland as its new senior pastor. Dr. Osborne, a native of southern Indiana, comes to Lakeland from KeckAvenueBaptistChurch in Evansville, Indiana, where he spent ten years as their senior pastor. Prior to that, he was associate pastor at First Baptist Church in Henderson, Kentucky.

Dr. Osborne received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Southern Indiana, and his Master of Arts and his Educational Doctorate from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.

“Over the course of the past year and a half, I have met with, prayed with, and sought God’s will regarding the pastorate of LakelandBaptistChurch, alongside your wonderful pastor search committee,” said Dr. Osborne. “Words cannot begin to express the deep and overwhelming assurance I have that God has called me to be your pastor.”

Dr. Osborne’s wife, Becky, earned her Bachelor of Science and her Master’s degree from the University of Southern Indiana. She is a gifted writer and conference speaker, and has a heart for women’s ministry.

Dr. Osborne is known for his visionary leadership, his heart for evangelism, and his commitment to expository preaching. He brings with him a strong focus on missions on a local, state, nationwide and international level.

His first Sunday at Lakeland is July 20, 2008. Bible Study stars at 9:00 a.m. and worship service begins at 10:30 a.m. The community is invited to be guests of Lakeland and to help welcome the new pastor and his family.

The Osborne’s have four children – Katie, 14, Emma, 10, Ellie, 6, and William, 5 – and are looking forward to getting to know Lakeland their new community.

LakelandBaptistChurch is located on I35 and Main Street in Lewisville, and offers a wide variety of family-focused programs for children, youth and adults. More information is available on their web site at www.lakelandbaptist.org or by calling 972-436-4561.