Pastor-Teacher Terry L. Wells, a native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a dedicated servant of God whose life is anchored in the principles of faith, spiritual growth, and community empowerment. Accepting Jesus Christ as his Savior at the age of 16 and baptized in 1986, Pastor Wells has firmly rooted his life's mission in devotional service and the Word of God. A graduate of Memorial High School, he went on to serve honorably in the United States Marine Corps, retiring after 20 years with the rank of Gunnery Sergeant and earning the esteemed Defense Meritorious Service Medal. During his military service, he was led to New Bethel Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, where under the mentorship of Pastor Paul A.W. McKery, he preached his first sermon and was licensed to preach on May 21, 2000. He was later ordained on May 28, 2006, at Palma Ceia Baptist Church in Hayward, California.
With over 24 years of expository preaching experience, Pastor Wells has faithfully served in various ministerial roles worldwide, including as Senior Pastor-Teacher at Camp McTureous Chapel in Okinawa, Japan, and at the 29 Palms Chapel Service in California. He began his journey at First Baptist Church of Perris as Associate Minister under Pastor Connor Robinson Jr. from 2008 to 2016. In May 2017, he was called to serve as Interim Pastor and, following divine guidance, fully embraced the role of Pastor on November 4, 2017. Pastor Wells is profoundly inspired by Acts 6:4, Ephesians 4:11-12, Galatians 5:22-23, and John 15:1-8, which emphasize spiritual transformation and fruitful living.
Pastor Wells' leadership at First Baptist Church of Perris reflects a commitment to spiritual growth and community service, as illustrated in Galatians 5:22-23. These values can be nurtured and shared among Christians, their children, their church, their coworkers, their community, our country, and throughout the world. By remaining connected to Christ and embodying His presence, believers are empowered to produce abundant spiritual fruit, as outlined in John 15:1-8.
Under Pastor Wells' leadership, the First Baptist Church of Perris has significantly broadened its outreach through a variety of community-centered initiatives. Notable efforts include the dedication of a modular building honoring the legacy of Pastor Connor Robinson Jr., the Annual Thanksgiving Giveaway, the Annual City of Perris Community Unity Walk, and food and clothing drives for the homeless. Additionally, partnerships with non-profit organizations such as "Give By Faith, Inc." have bolstered initiatives like the annual Toy Drive. Collaborative efforts with City of Perris Councilman David Rabb and other entities have also led to substantial enhancements in the church's infrastructure, including renovations, landscaping, and various community engagement projects.
Alongside his beloved wife, First Lady Shadelle Wells, with whom he has shared over 33 years of marriage, Pastor Wells continues to lead with love and steadfast faith. Together, they celebrate their family, including their children Terae Wells Jr., Aalyiah Perry, and their seven grandchildren. Their unwavering commitment to the church family and broader community reflects their dedication to faithfully serving God at First Baptist Church of Perris.