Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Charles Stanley

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 23, 2025

How Charles Stanley built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Charles Stanley was a prominent American Southern Baptist pastor and author. He served as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta for nearly five decades, stepping down in 2020. He founded In Touch Ministries, a global ministry that disseminates his sermons via television and radio broadcasts. Stanley also held the position of president of the Southern Baptist Convention for two years, from 1984 to 1986.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1969: Joined First Baptist Church of Atlanta

In 1969, Charles Stanley joined the staff of First Baptist Church of Atlanta.

1971: Became senior pastor

In 1971, Charles Stanley became the senior pastor at First Baptist Church of Atlanta.

1972: Launched The Chapel Hour

In 1972, Charles Stanley launched "The Chapel Hour", a half-hour religious television program.

1977: Founded In Touch Ministries

In 1977, Charles Stanley founded In Touch Ministries, aiming to spread the Gospel and strengthen local churches.

1978: In Touch began being televised on CBN

In 1978, the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) began televising In Touch Ministries.

1984: President of the Southern Baptist Convention

In 1984, Charles Stanley began his service as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

1985: Elected president of the Southern Baptist Convention

In 1985, Charles Stanley was elected president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

1986: President of the Southern Baptist Convention

In 1986, Charles Stanley ended his service as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

2017: Named Anthony George as successor

In 2017, Charles Stanley named Anthony George as his future successor as senior pastor of First Baptist Church.

September 13, 2020: Announced retirement as senior pastor

On September 13, 2020, Charles Stanley announced his retirement as senior pastor of First Baptist Church and transitioned to pastor emeritus, while continuing to work at In Touch Ministries.