Pastor Barrett was saved in his teenage years thanks in large part to a loving and prayerful grandmother. At the age of 17 he experienced a transformative salvation, setting the foundation for his future in ministry. Eight years later, at 25, he responded to God’s call to preach, embarking on a path that would be shaped by significant mentorship and service. God has called Bro. Barrett to build a Godly home and to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He publicly surrendered to the call to preach on September 7th, 2008.
He graduated with a degree in Computer Science on July 12th, 2004 out of Memphis, TN. Shortly after he met his wife, Mrs. Andrea Harrelson, and married on September 2nd, 2005. Together they share a marriage deeply rooted in forgiveness, patience, faith, love, and unwavering commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. God has blessed them with seven wonderful children: Lucas, Jonah, Deborah, Stephen, Marcus, Leah, and Moses. Their home focuses on the truths of redemption and grace, as God lovingly transformed their lives once marked by waywardness into a blessed household.
Learning to serve God under the guidance of esteemed mentors, Pastor Mike Stanley and Pastor David Isaacs, their influence provided Pastor Barrett with a robust theological foundation and practical ministry experience. This period of mentorship was instrumental in preparing him for future leadership roles within the church.
Bro. Barrett helped a new Church plant for three years starting in mid 2010 where he served as Youth Pastor for two and a half years. He was ordained to the Gospel Ministry in March of 2015, and accepted the position of Senior Pastor at King’s Hiway Baptist Church in McPherson, Kansas. Over five years, Pastor Harrelson led the church with a commitment to biblical teaching and community outreach. His leadership was marked by a dedication to fostering a loving and conservative environment, emphasizing the importance of scripture and loving God.
In 2020, Pastor Harrelson returned to Friendship Baptist Church in Highland, Arkansas, to transition into the role of Senior Pastor. His return was characterized by a continued vision of Building Godly Generations, focusing on family discipleship, evangelism, and community engagement. Under his leadership, the church has continued to grow, embracing its mission to make wholehearted followers of Jesus.