Robert Stephens has served as Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Alexandria since January 2023. A native Texan, Robert and his family moved to Virginia in response to God’s call to serve the church and community of Alexandria. Since entering vocational ministry in 2006, Robert has been passionate about helping people know Jesus, grow in their faith, and live with purpose as followers of Christ. He was commissioned as a chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2009 and continues to value opportunities to serve both the church and the broader community.

Robert earned his Master of Divinity from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, and later completed a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching from Liberty University in Virginia. Robert has developed a deep love for preaching and teaching the Word of God and a passion for seeing healthy churches faithfully fulfill the mission Jesus has given them. He believes the local church is at its best when it is deeply rooted in Scripture, centered on Christ, committed to one another, and actively carrying the hope of the gospel into its community and the world.

His life verse is Acts 20:24, which expresses his desire to finish faithfully the work God has entrusted to him and to testify to the good news of God’s grace. More than anything, Robert wants his life and ministry to point people to Jesus Christ and encourage others to know Him, follow Him, and make Him known.

Robert married his wife, April, in 2010, and they are blessed with three daughters: Allie, Kate, and Julia. When they are not at church, the Stephens family loves spending time together, especially loading up their RV and heading out on a family road trip. Whether he's preparing a sermon, investing in church members, or planning the family's next adventure, Robert is driven by a love for God's Word, the local church, and the people God has called him to serve.

If you would like to connect with Pastor Robert, you may call the church office or email him directly.