First Baptist Church Leadership
First Baptist Church is blessed to have a leadership team who are truly dedicated to Christ and accomplishing His will. Following are brief bio's of our leadership team and their qualifications for ministry.
Dr. Calvin Price
Executive Pastor
Pastor Calvin is a native of Mississippi and accepted Christ as his personal Savior and Lord at age thirteen. He was Baptized as an act of obedience to identify with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and as a public witness of his prior profession of faith.
He married his high school sweetheart, Tammy. Together they have two children and five grandchildren. He graduated Coldwater High School in 1985, Blue Mountain College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in May 2004. He enrolled in New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and earned a Master of Divinity Degree in May 2014. He also earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in December 2019.
Pastor Calvin and Tammy enjoy a host of hobbies that include hiking, hunting, fishing, and spending time with family.
Crystal Turney
Office Administrator & Financial Secretary
Crystal is back as our church secretary. She helps us with budget and finances, and everyday activities. If you need help, Crystal is a good person to ask. She will greet you with a smile. Crystal grew up in Gallup and loves the people here.
Cory Gasparich
Bivocational Music Minister
Cory Gasparich was born and raised in Gallup. He received his BA in music from Missouri Southern State University and completed substantial postgraduate studies at New Mexico State University The Lord let him back to Gallup in 2024 and he was recently installed as the First Baptist music minister.
Dustin Bates
Student Minister
Dustin Bates, our student minister, has a deep passion for making a meaningful impact in our community for Christ. He is committed to strengthening our youth ministry so that our students are firmly grounded in their faith—able to stand confidently and without hesitation when questioned by unbelievers. Dustin recognizes the need for strong leadership and guidance to help our youth understand who Christ is and to embrace their true identity in Him. With a clear vision and a heart for change, Dustin is ready to lead the way in transforming the lives of our youth and making a lasting difference in our community.