Texas Baptists welcomes new team lead for Music and Worship

From an early age, Tom Tillman learned he had a natural musical ability. Since then, his life has encompassed a vast array of musical experiences.

Texas Baptists welcomes Tillman, former Music and Worship Pastor for First Baptist Church in Conroe, as the new Music and Worship Lead.

"I was literally one of those kids that grew up being at the church every time the doors were open," Tillman said. "I was always eager to do musical things, whether it was children's choir or handbells and then eventually playing piano, organ, singing and leading ensembles in the main services of worship."

In his new role with Texas Baptists, which began Feb. 15, Tillman will be assisting Texas Baptists churches with their needs concerning music and worship.

Delvin Atchison, director of the Great Commission Team, said he is looking forward to having Tillman's unique skillset on the team.

"Tom brings a wealth of knowledge and experience about worship, music and church life," Atchison said. "His love for God and the church coupled with his educational background will be an invaluable asset to the Great Commission Team. We are blessed to have him."

In Tillman's most recent role at FBC in Conroe, he spent 22 years directing traditional and blended worship services and oversaw the launching of a new modern worship service.

Before moving to Conroe, he worked in music-related positions at FBC in Dayton; FBC in Olton; Retta Baptist Church in Burleson; FBC in Earth; Emmanuel Baptist Church in Shawnee, Okla.; and FBC Albuquerque, New Mexico.

His nearly 30 years of experience in music and worship ministry in the local church has helped prepare him for the new task and challenge with Texas Baptists.

"The flow of a worship service is vital for corporate worship, but the preparation for worship, especially of the music team, is paramount," Tillman said. "Leading out spiritually in devotionals before each rehearsal is just one example of how I aim to prepare our folks each week for the precious gift of leading others to worship. Reaching those within our circle of influence enables us to be the hands and feet of Christ, but equipping people to worship encourages us all to be a thankful and faithful people, rejoicing in God our Savior."

Tillman and his wife, Marcia, have two daughters, Sarah and Julia, who are currently in college. He received his Master of Arts at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and his Bachelor of Music in church music at Wayland Baptist University.

"My vision for this position is to encourage music and worship pastors by being a friend and resource, empowering them to fulfill the Great Commission through the medium of worship," he said.