BSK student BJ Meyer is celebrating two significant milestones in his ministry journey: his recent call as Senior Pastor of Central Baptist Church in Daytona Beach, Florida, and his selection for the 2026-27 Fellows program with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF).
Since enrolling at BSK in 2024, Meyer has pursued theological education through the Seminary’s flexible, stackable academic pathway while remaining actively engaged in ministry. He has completed the Exploring Ministry Level 1 Certificate, is nearing completion of the Exploring Ministry Level 2 Certificate, and plans to continue his studies in BSK’s Master of Divinity program.
Meyer’s educational path demonstrates how BSK’s stackable model allows students to pursue theological education while serving in ministry. Each credential provides meaningful preparation while also building toward future academic goals, creating a pathway that meets students where they are and equips them for continued growth.
His recent call as Senior Pastor of Central Baptist Church represents the culmination of a ministry journey that began within the congregation itself. Meyer first served Central Baptist as its organist and gradually assumed additional leadership responsibilities. Over time, his gifts for ministry and leadership were recognized and affirmed by the congregation, which ultimately called him to serve as its senior pastor.
The journey reflects BSK’s emphasis on cultivating “homegrown” ministry leaders, supporting congregations as they identify and develop gifted individuals from within their own communities. Rather than seeking leadership solely from outside candidates, many churches are increasingly investing in leaders who have already demonstrated commitment, faithfulness, and calling within the life of the congregation.
Reflecting on his call to senior leadership, Meyer said, “I am deeply humbled and excited to be called as Central’s next pastor. I look forward to journeying with Central and seeing what God has in store for us.”
In addition to this new pastoral role, Meyer was recently selected as one of 13 ministers nationwide to participate in the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship’s 2026-27 Fellows Program. The Fellows initiative equips clergy through mentoring relationships, coaching, continuing education opportunities, and peer connections designed to help ministers thrive in their vocations. According to CBF, the program provides resources and relationships that help clergy cultivate the traits necessary for long-term ministry effectiveness.
Meyer said one of the most meaningful aspects of the experience has already been the relationships formed with fellow participants.
“I am so honored to be part of this incredible group. One of the greatest gifts of the Fellows Cohort has been building friendships and connections with other ministers who are navigating many of the same joys and challenges of ministry. This community has been truly life-giving, and I am deeply grateful for the encouragement, wisdom, and support it provides.”
The Fellows Program brings together ministers from across the country and provides opportunities for personal growth, professional development, and mutual encouragement among clergy serving in a variety of ministry contexts.
Together, these milestones highlight a season of growth and opportunity for Meyer. As he prepares to complete his second Exploring Ministry certificate and continue into the Master of Divinity program, he does so while stepping into senior pastoral leadership and joining a national cohort of emerging ministry leaders.
For BSK, Meyer’s journey serves as a powerful example of how theological education, congregational support, and vocational calling can work together to prepare leaders for faithful and effective ministry.
