Tim Franklin

Youth Pastor

Tim Franklin has been serving as Associate Pastor to Students at Immanuel Baptist Church since March 2018. Before joining Immanuel, Tim worked as an engineering consultant and later joined the safety program at BF Goodrich Chemical Corporation. At age 27, he felt called to ministry and began pastoring a rural church in Murray, Kentucky. He went on to serve a congregation in Lyon County for over nine years. Through mission work, Tim felt a deep call to student ministry, leading him to roles in Marshall County as a children’s pastor, youth pastor, and minister of music. To complement his ministry with students, Tim also pursued a career in education and earned a master’s degree in the field. He currently serves as Director of Programming at the Paducah Innovation Hub Makerspace, in addition to his work at Immanuel.

What’s one thing people might not know about you?
I sang baritone in a gospel quartet for several years. I love being outdoors - fishing, hiking, and just soaking up God’s creation. For 17 years, I owned and operated a taxidermy studio.

What are you up to when you’re not at work?
I’m a big Boston Celtics fan and love cheering them on. When I’m not working, I try to be still and find moments of quiet. Life is busy, and I do my best to make space for rest and balance.

What is your favorite part about serving at Immanuel Baptist Church?
Without a doubt, it’s the people. The Immanuel family is incredibly kind, loving, and gracious. I also appreciate the rich history and warm formality in our worship service. I like it that anyone from any denomination or background can find a portion of the service that is familiar that they can connect with.

What else would you like to share?
One of my favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 3:5–6:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”
It’s a verse I’ve carried with me through every season, and it continues to guide me in both ministry and life.