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Zion Hill Baptist Church Staff Biographies
Pastor: Dr. Danny Newbern
Pastor Emeritus: Dr. Paul Wade * Administrative Assistant: Peggy Cooper
WebMaster: Brenda Whiting
Dr. Danny Newbern has been the pastor at Zion Hill since July, 2004. Danny came to Zion Hill from the Lanier Hills Church in Gainesville, Georgia, where he served for ten years as the Associate Pastor. Danny was born and raised in Cobb County, where he graduated from McEachern High School. He attended Toccoa Falls College where he met his wife Caroline. Caroline teaches special education in Hall County, and works in the children’s ministry at Zion Hill, as well as sings in the choir. He and Caroline have four daughters of whom they are very proud. Danny is a graduate of Toccoa Falls College with an Associate of Arts in General Studies, and a Bachelor of Science in Christian Education. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army Military Police, having served at Ft. Belvoir, Virginia and in Giessen, West Germany. Danny also served for seven and a half years at the Hall County Sheriff's Office as a sergeant in the patrol division. Danny serves once a month as a volunteer chaplain at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center. He enjoys jogging and studying U.S. history.
Peggy Cooper has been the administrative assistant at Zion Hill for 6 years. Peggy was born and raised in
Dr. Paul Wade is the Pastor Emeritus at Zion Hill. Paul was elected pastor emeritus to honor him for his 53 years in the pastoral ministry, serving over two years at Zion Hill. Though this is an honorary position, Paul is an asset to the pastor and staff, as well as to the whole church family, helping with pastoral care and filling the pulpit when needed, and giving wise counsel. Paul is a graduate of Norman College, Mercer University, and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He is married to Liz, who is a retired school teacher. She has been a tremendous help to Paul in the ministry. They have 2 adult daughters, Paula and Mary, and two grandsons. Paul is an avid fisherman.
Brenda Whiting is the webmaster for Zion Hill's website. Brenda has been a member of Zion Hill for 53 years. Brenda is a graduate of Gainesville Junior College, Brenau University, Georgia State University and Piedmont College. Brenda has a specialist degree in education and is a retired educator from the Gwinnett County Public School system. Brenda is married to Mickey Whiting, a member of Zion Hill for 41 years. Mickey and Brenda have three sons and one grandson. She loves to read mysteries, enjoys music and is an avid fan of football and baseball.
Dr. Larry Berneking has been an active member in music ministries for over 35 years. Larry accepted Christ as his Savior at the age of 12 at the First Baptist Church of Herculaneum, MO. He and his wife June were married in 1969 at the First Baptist Church of Buford. They have two sons and four grandchildren. Larry received his Bachelors, Masters and Education Specialist degree from Southeast Missouri State University and his doctorate from St. Louis University. In 1985 Larry was ordained as a deacon by the First Baptist Church of Festus-Crystal City, MO. In addition to serving as a deacon at First Baptist he taught Sunday School, was a member of the Chancel Choir, the “A Cappella” Sunday Evening Choir, and the Praise Team. In addition to his music in the church he has been a member of three Southern Gospel quartets. Larry and June have been members of Zion Hill for 5 years and he is currently an active Deacon in the church.