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Atchison church welcomes new pastor

By Brian Hagen

07/09/2023

Pastor Russ Cooper/Submitted photo

(KAIR)--New leadership is named for the First Baptist Church in Atchison, with a longtime Atchison resident, well known to the local church community, named to the position.

Pastor Russ Cooper officially began his service to the congregation as Church Pastor July 1.

According to a release, Cooper, an Atchison resident of 25-years, was ordained in 2002, and has served in Atchison as an interim pastor, co-pastor, and senior pastor, in addition to providing pulpit supply for several local churches.

Cooper told MSC News, "It is humbling to become a part of a 165 year history and to consider the impact First Baptist Church has had on the Atchison community for generations,” adding that “through a lengthy interview process, [he] had the opportunity to observe and interact a lot with church leaders and was deeply touched by their regard for one another as well as their compassion for people of all walks.” Cooper adds that being named Pastor for First Baptist Church “is a dream come true; to be able to serve a congregation that truly desires to reflect the love that Jesus spoke of. "

Cooper and his wife, Sharon, have been married for 43 years, and have six children and three grandchildren.

Cooper begins his new role just as the church is set to celebrate its 165th anniversary on August 1.

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