Megachurch Leader Transitions to Pastor Emeritus

Dr. Charles Stanley announced his decision to step down as senior pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta on Sunday, Sept. 13, during a livestream service. With a succession plan in place, the 87-year-old passed leadership on to Dr. Anthony George, who has assisted Stanley for the past eight years.

“We are forever indebted to this man of God—not only our faithful pastor, but also a pastor to millions around the world,” the church relayed on its Facebook page.