Former Southern Baptist Convention president and longtime pastor Steve Gaines has entered hospice care as he continues his battle with cancer, according to an announcement from Bellevue Baptist Church.
Gaines, who has served as senior pastor of Bellevue since 2005, previously revealed in 2023 that he had been diagnosed with kidney cancer, which later spread to his lungs. Over the past several years he has received treatment while continuing to share updates and ask for prayer from the church community.
As his health declined, Gaines stepped into a pastor emeritus role, allowing church leadership to continue ministry responsibilities while he focused on his health. Bellevue Baptist Church, one of the largest congregations within the Southern Baptist Convention, informed members in a letter that Gaines has now entered hospice care as the illness progresses.
Beyond his role at Bellevue, Gaines has been a prominent leader within the Southern Baptist community. He served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2016 to 2018, helping guide the denomination during a significant period of discussion about church leadership and mission.
Throughout his cancer journey, Gaines has repeatedly expressed faith and gratitude for the prayers and encouragement he has received from believers around the world. Church members and leaders continue to ask for prayer for Gaines, his wife Donna, and their family during this difficult season
