After four decades as the under-shepherd of Central Baptist Church, the Rev. David Buggs is moving higher in his ministry. The title of “pastor emeritus” will be bestowed upon Buggs in recognition of his dedicated service to the congregation and community.
A celebration marking the occasion takes place on Sunday, November 22, at 3:30 p.m., at Central Baptist, located at 1641 E. Carson Street in Carson. Clergy, elected officials and civic leaders are expected to attend and acknowledge his contributions to the faith and the city.
As the founding pastor of Central Baptist, Buggs has ministered to thousands of congregants over the years, said member Marcia Wilson.
“Many hearts have been changed by Pastor Buggs’ inspirational sermons, coupled with his spiritual guidance and moral leadership. He has compassionately fed the hungry, clothed the stranger, and comforted sick and grieving families,” shared Wilson.
The Rev. Buggs’ pastoral ministry began in 1972 and three years later, the church merged with Central Baptist. In addition to teaching, preaching and guiding his flock, he held a full-time job as a nuclear weapons specialist at the Seal Beach Naval Weapon Station.
After retiring from the Naval Station, Buggs dedicated even more time to his ministry, resulting in the congregation exceeding 1,600 members. He also donated his talents to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department as a Civilian Volunteer Clergyman at the Carson Sub-Station.
Reflecting on his service, Pastor Buggs said, “My ministry has been one of ‘Loving People and Serving People.’ What I have accomplished in ministry is truly attributed to God’s amazing grace. He has allowed me, with only a 9th grade education, to pastor over 1, 600 members and lead the membership to give to multiple mission organizations, over the course of 43 years.
“People are my business and I don’t care how many transgressions they have, God has called me to love them!”
To learn more about the celebration, call Central Baptist Church at (310) 830-2596.