Larry Bazer: from Lead Pastor to Answering God’s Call to International Ministry
FBC Melbourne February 24, 2025

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Larry Bazer, the former pastor of First Baptist Melbourne, who served from 1986 to 2011. Larry shares his incredible journey from pastoring at First Baptist Melbourne to founding the international ministry SENT: Equipping the Church. Tune in to hear how Larry’s early years in ministry, coupled with his passion for missions, have led to decades of teaching and evangelism in countries around the world such as Brazil, India, and Romania.

Episode Highlights:

  • Larry’s early call to ministry at age 11 and his first sermon at age 15
  • His pastoral journey at First Baptist Melbourne and the foundation of SENT: Equipping the Church
  • The pivotal mission trip to Brazil and its lasting impact on Larry’s ministry
  • The importance of teaching and training pastors in less-developed countries
  • Highlights from his trips to China, Romania, India, and other countries
  • The challenges and rewards of international missions, including language barriers and lost luggage
  • The significance of building long-term relationships in mission fields
  • Larry’s renewed passion for preaching and writing in the wake of his wife’s passing

Resources Mentioned:

  • “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg
  • The Wordless Book (used in evangelistic efforts)
  • Southern Baptist Convention’s Advance 2 initiative
  • Rhema Ministries (Ron Herod Evangelistic Ministry Association)
  • There’s Hope Foundation (Romania mission)

Connect with Us:

  • Visit our website at launchme.church
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  • Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.

Support the Show:

  • Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in international missions and faith journeys.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Mission Control. Join us next week as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.