Pastor Roy Worley
Early Life & Education
Roy Worley was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. He graduated from the University of Memphis with a bachelor’s degree in education. During his college years, despite academic success and involvement in activities, Roy became deeply aware of an emptiness that nothing seemed to satisfy.
Coming to Faith
Although Roy had attended church as a child and believed for many years that he was “okay,” he sensed what he later recognized as a God-shaped void in his life. This led him to reflect on his childhood faith and to seek counsel from a close cousin, who encouraged him to attend church. The Lord led Roy to a local church in a new community where his family had recently relocated. Through the faithful, biblical preaching there, Roy came to understand that church membership alone was not enough. He repented of his sin and placed his trust fully in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross and resurrection.
Family Life
It was in this same church that Roy met his wife, Rebecca. They have been married for many years and are blessed with three daughters, all of whom are married, and seven beloved grandchildren.
Call to Ministry
While Roy and Rebecca were still dating, Roy sensed God calling him to surrender his personal ambitions and pursue preaching the gospel. Rebecca had sensed this calling as well and joyfully joined him in ministry. Together, they have served churches in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Illinois. Throughout these years, Rebecca has faithfully served through women’s ministry, children’s Sunday School, and as a worship leader.
Education & Missions
Roy earned a Master of Divinity degree from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Memphis. During that time, the Lord placed a burden on their hearts for foreign missions. Following graduation, the family moved to New Orleans for further study at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. They were later appointed by the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention to serve in Latin America. After a year of language study in Costa Rica, they served for six years in Chile as church planters.
Ministry in Illinois & Manteno
For the past 28 years, Roy and Rebecca have faithfully served churches throughout Illinois. In August of 2024, Roy was invited to become the covocational pastor of First Baptist Church of Manteno. The Lord has richly blessed the ministry during this time, with many coming to faith in Christ and following Him in believer’s baptism.
An Open Invitation
All who sense an emptiness in their lives are warmly invited to come and join us as we continue to serve God and our community here in Manteno.
