
Nelson Granade
The Rev. Nelson Granade is pastor of First Baptist Church of North Wilkesboro, N.C., and a consultant with Center for Congregational Health. He is the author of “Lending Your Leadership: How Pastors are Redefining Their Role in Community Life.” Since arriving in North Wilkesboro in 1994, he has served as a United Way campaign chair, chair of Wilkes Vision 20/20 and on the boards of the Wilkes Pastoral Counseling Center and the Cross Cultural Coalition Task Force, among other roles.




Only a preacher

Pastors no longer automatically hold positions of community influence. But they can -- and should -- earn a place in their communities by participating in them, says pastor and author Nelson Granade.

Scholarships available for the Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising
This scholarship supports participants in the Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising (ECRF), a program designed to help religious leaders explore the spirituality of fundraising and gain skills essential for their work.
Applications are open now through October 27, 2025.
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