Meet The Team

Deacon Eric J. China, a native of Sumter, South Carolina, was raised in a household deeply rooted in faith, where he and his siblings were instilled with the importance of fostering a personal relationship with Christ by their devoted parents. His spiritual journey has taken him from Sumter to various locations, including Stone Mountain, Georgia, and Washington County, Georgia, where he now worships in Guyton, GA. Throughout his journey, Deacon China has been actively involved in numerous ministries, including Singles Ministry, Theatrical Ministry, Usher Board, Mens Fellowship, Choir, & "Judah Steppers" Step Ministry, and Praise and Worship Team. In addition to his spiritual commitments, Deacon China has excelled academically and athletically. At Washington County High School, he distinguished himself as a two-sport athlete in football and track & field. Continuing his pursuit of excellence, he attended Savannah State University, where he actively engaged in campus ministries and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems in 2005. Motivated by his desire to assist others, he furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella
University, where he is currently a Doctoral Candidate. Deacon China remains deeply involved in ministry, serving as the Youth Coordinator/Advisor at First Union Missionary Baptist Church in Guyton, GA, under the guidance
of his father. Professionally, he serves as the Program Director/Counselor of Substance Abuse
Programs with HDH Addiction Services at the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office. Outside of his
professional and ministry commitments, Deacon China treasures moments spent with his
beloved wife, Magdalena “Maggie” China, and their two children, Josh and Madison. He finds joy in family bonding, travel, horseback riding, movie nights, community service, mentoring young people, attending church services, and passionately supporting his favorite football team.

Shanikqua Welcome one of the Youth Leaders at First Union Missionary Baptist Church with a  passion for God. I have been a member of First Union since 2011 where I have dedicated my 

time in helping to grow our ministry and continuing to increase my faith so as to let the Lord use 

me in whatever capacity needed. 

Under Jame's guidance, the Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in supporting the church's mission by providing a stable and secure foundation for ministry activities and community engagement.

Bernadette G. China, a native of Pembroke, GA, has resided there since birth. She is the ninth of ten children born to the late Thelma & Francis Fields, Sr. From her marriage to Rev. Tommy L. China, Sr., she has been blessed with two biological children, Phillip & Alexandria, and has embraced five additional children, nine grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. First Lady China finds immense joy in family fellowship and cherishes every opportunity to spend time with her loved ones.
Education has always been a passion for First Lady China, who attended schools in the Bryan
County School system. Her academic journey includes earning the following degrees: an A.S. in
Sociology from Middle Georgia College, a B.S. in Criminal Justice/Sociology from Savannah
State University (graduating Magnum Cum Laude), and an M.A. in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. Throughout her studies, she concurrently held various full-time positions with the State of Georgia from 1983 to 2014, including roles such as Secretary, Sr. Secretary, Parole Investigator, and Parole Officer for the State Board of Pardons & Paroles, among others. Following her retirement after thirty years and six months of service, she embarked on a new journey as a Substance Abuse Counselor for RSAT @ Coastal State Prison until December 2016. She currently serves as a Site Manager for the Pembroke Senior Citizens Center. Lady China's spiritual foundation was nurtured in her childhood at St. John A.M.E. Church in
Pembroke, GA, where she was actively involved in various ministries and roles. In 2004, she
followed a call of faith and joined Overcoming by Faith, where she served faithfully as an usher
until her marriage to Rev./Pastor Tommy L. China. Together, they answered a shared ministry
calling, which led them to First Union Missionary Baptist Church in Guyton, GA, where they
serve as dedicated leaders. In all aspects of her life, First Lady China's primary desire is to reflect her love for God, her family, her church, and her calling to honor God with the gifts bestowed upon her. She aims to live her life uplifting others while bringing glory to God, encouraging others to do the same. Her motto encapsulates this sentiment: &

"Let your light shine so that others may see your good works and glorify the Father in Jesus name!"

Beyond her administrative duties, Arlene actively participates in church activities and ministries, embodying the spirit of service and community engagement. She supports the pastoral staff and other church leaders in fulfilling the mission of the First Union Baptist Church.

Beyond his role as Treasurer, Douglas is dedicated to supporting the mission and ministries of the church through responsible financial management. He provides financial transparency to the congregation and ensures that resources are used efficiently to further the church's mission.

As Chairman of Deacons, he plays a pivotal role in supporting the pastoral leadership, assisting in the administration of church affairs, and providing spiritual guidance to the congregation.

Reverend Barnes has been instrumental in fostering a warm, welcoming atmosphere where members find spiritual nourishment and support. Known for insightful sermons that resonate with congregants of all ages, Reverend Barnes emphasizes the importance of faith in daily life and the power of collective worship.