Interim pastor selected for Gardendale church | News

GARDENDALE, AL (WBRC)- An interim pastor has been selected to serve the Gardendale - Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church after their senior pastor is charged with murder.

Bishop Debra Wallace-Padgett announced Wednesday that Dr. Bill Bostick will begin his service at the church Thursday, Jan. 17.

This appointment comes after police arrested and charged former senior pastor Dr. Terry Greer with shooting his wife and daughter and then stabbing himself multiple times. Mrs. Greer passed away from her injuries. Greer is charged with murder and attempted murder.

Dr. Bostick and his wife Penny previously served in the church from 1979 to 1986. He's also spent time at Tuscaloosa First UMC, Huntsville First UMC, as the Florence District Superintendent and as the Decatur District Superintendent. Dr. Bostick retired in 2006 but continued to serve full-time in a pastoral role at Vestavia Hills UMC until last year.

"Bill Bostick is known for his preaching and leadership skills," Bishop Wallace-Padgett said in a press release. "He will be an asset to the church. Please be in prayer for Bill and Penny Bostick as they return to the Gardendale – Mt. Vernon church to offer leadership and guidance at this important time."

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