Faith
Fred Luter Retires, Legacy of Faith Continues
Faith Facts
- Fred Luter Jr., longtime senior pastor, announces his retirement effective October 2026 after 40 years of service.
- Luter has asked the congregation to vote for his son, Fred “Chip” Luter III, as the next pastor.
- He led Franklin Avenue Baptist Church through major challenges, including Hurricane Katrina and growing from 65 to thousands of members.
Fred Luter Jr., the esteemed leader of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in New Orleans, has announced his retirement, expressing gratitude for God’s steadfast guidance over nearly four decades.
Luter urged the congregation to support his son, continuing a legacy of faith, strong family values, and servant leadership rooted in Biblical principles.
“Who would have thought … that a young street preacher from the Lower Ninth Ward would be elected by the 65 members of the Franklin Avenue Baptist Church back in September of 1986 as pastor and then that young preacher who had never pastored before will lead Franklin Avenue to be the largest church in the city of New Orleans and one of the largest churches in the state of Louisiana,”
Luter recalled.
He reflected on the powerful impact of the church’s ministry, counting thousands led to salvation in Christ and honoring God’s faithfulness through tremendous trials.
Luter, once elected the Southern Baptist Convention’s first and only black president, was commended for rebuilding the church twice against significant odds and for expanding its ministry despite obstacles.
He announced a special meeting to officially vote for Chip Luter as the congregation’s future shepherd, affirming that he has been blessed to serve God’s people all these years.
“Words are not adequate to express how much I love and appreciate each and every last one of you.”
“It has been my honor to serve as your pastor for 39 years.”
“To God be the glory for the things that he has done.”
The story of Pastor Luter embodies the strength of faith and the hope found in Jesus Christ.
It reminds us that with God, our families, and our freedoms can endure and flourish.