Full Breakdown
Steve Gaines Enters Hospice Care Amid Battle with Kidney Cancer
3/17/2026, 6:04:31 AM
Core Event: Steve Gaines' Health Decline
Steve Gaines, a prominent pastor and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), has entered hospice care following a prolonged battle with kidney cancer. This announcement was made in a letter to the congregation of Bellevue Baptist Church in Cordova, Tennessee, where Gaines served as senior pastor for nearly two decades. The church's current pastor, Ben Mandrell, emphasized the family's request for prayer and privacy during this difficult time.
Background & Context: A Legacy of Leadership
Gaines became the pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church in 2005, succeeding the renowned Adrian Rogers. Under his leadership, the church grew to become one of the largest congregations in the SBC, with a membership of approximately 30,000. Gaines also served as SBC president from 2016 to 2018, a period marked by significant developments within the denomination. In November 2023, he publicly disclosed his kidney cancer diagnosis, which later progressed to his lungs, complicating his treatment options.
Timeline of Events
- 2005: Gaines becomes senior pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church.
- 2016-2018: Serves as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.
- November 2023: Announces kidney cancer diagnosis.
- 2024: Reports improvement in health but later reveals cancer spread to lungs.
- September 2024: Announces transition out of pastoral ministry.
- March 2026: Enters hospice care.
Official Statements & Responses
In his letter to the congregation, Pastor Ben Mandrell expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, "This is obviously a very difficult time for Steve and his family." He highlighted the family's desire for privacy, requesting no visitors to allow for meaningful time together. Mandrell urged the congregation to pray for Gaines and his family, emphasizing the need for peace and comfort during this challenging period.
Criticism & Opposition
While the response from the church community has been largely supportive, there has been some discussion regarding the broader implications of Gaines' health on the church's future leadership and direction. Some congregants have expressed concerns about the transition of leadership and the potential impact on the church's mission and outreach.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Bro. Steve has faithfully served the Lord and shepherded so many people through the years,” — Ben Mandrell, Pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church
- “What [the Gaines family] have specifically requested is prayer,” — Ben Mandrell, Pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church
What's Next: Future of Bellevue Baptist Church
As Gaines transitions into hospice care, Bellevue Baptist Church is expected to continue under the leadership of Ben Mandrell, who was appointed as senior pastor following Gaines' announcement of retirement. The church community is likely to focus on supporting the Gaines family while navigating the changes in leadership and ministry direction.
