TIM BASS – LEAD PASTOR
email: tbasslbc@hotmail.com
Pastor Tim is a native of North Carolina and resides with his wife in Sampson County. He has been in ministry since 1999 and is the founding pastor of Lighthouse Baptist Church. He received an Associate of Religion and Church Ministry from Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute and a Doctorate of Theology from the NC College of Theology. His wife, Dena, is an English teacher. Tim and Dena have two wonderful daughters and sons-in-law. They also have six precious grandchildren. Tim loves the outdoors and when not spending time with his wife, children, or grandchildren, you will likely find him hunting or fishing.
JOE PESSOLANO – WORSHIP LEADER
Joe and his wife, Ashley, have been married since 2005 and have two children, Camden and Elizabeth. They began attending Lighthouse Baptist Church in 2017. Shortly after that, Joe began serving as a member of the praise team. Over the years, Joe and Ashley have both served in children’s ministry, as well. In 2024, Joe moved into the role of Worship Leader for LBC.
Leading worship is not a task that Joe takes lightly. His belief is that, “Music is a universal language that has the ability to soften and heal hearts of the broken and allows us to praise the Lord together even when we can’t find words on our own to do that. Opening our services with thoughtful praise prepares our ears and our hearts to hear and receive God’s word as it is brought by our pastor.”
Joe and his family live in nearby Willow Spring, NC. When he’s not leading worship he enjoys spending time working in the yard, fishing, playing bluegrass and gospel music and cheering on the NC State Wolfpack.
JUSTIN & CARLA BITTLE – CHILDREN’S CHURCH DIRECTORS
Justin and Carla met while working in high school and have been married since 2003. They have 3 children, Mattie, Carley, and Ollie. Both are natives of Alabama and moved to North Carolina in 2016 to further Justin’s career in IT. Justin and Carla combined have been involved in discipling all ages from infants to Senior saints. Their ministry service started in their home church in AL. They began attending LBC in 2018 and started serving in the Wednesday night kid’s program in the Fall of 2018. They have been serving as the Children’s Church Directors since 2019. The have also been involved with many ministries within the church over the years, including but not limited to: Backpack Buddies, College & Career Class, and VBS. They are very concerned with teaching our children and youth “how to do church” through discipleship training and service projects. When not working or at church, Justin and Carla enjoy traveling with their family, spending time with their pets, and hanging out with friends and family.
JENNY PARRISH – NURSERY DIRECTOR
Eddie and Jenny have been married for 41 years in July. They have 2 children, Jeremy and wife Mary Beth, and Emilee and husband Daniel. They also have 4 very precious grandchildren. Eddie and Jenny are both charter members of Lighthouse Baptist Church where they have served in many different capacities. Eddie has served as a deacon since LBC started and Jenny currently serves as the Nursery Director. They have been AWANA commander and leaders, as well as teachers. Eddie and Jenny own and operate Parrish Fire and Safety, Inc. in Benson. When not working, you can find them enjoying the outside or in WV riding side by sides.