A prototype of gregarious and personable charm, Senior Pastor Gary Bell is the consummate southern gentleman with an infectious smile and compassionate spirit; however, his focus changes when he begins to preach the Gospel. In that role, he is an intelligent and passionate orator with a contagious zeal and an incredible anointing to speak “all the words of this life” (Acts 5:20). His consuming commitment to speak truth into the lives of people is matched only by his work ethic and heart for hurting people.

He grew up in rural East Texas under the tutelage of his parents, Don and Elaine Bell, who have been pastors all of Pastor Bell's life. However, for a season he did not remain faithful to that early training. Because he is an accomplished musician, he spent several years traveling with various musical groups during that time. He surrendered to the call of God after a recommitment of his life to Christ at the age of 19.

An ordained minister of the Assemblies of God, Pastor Bell's formal education includes undergraduate work at Trinity Valley Community College, a B.S. in Pastoral Ministries from Southwestern Assemblies of God Bible College, and an M.A. in Theological Studies from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. Though obviously articulate and educated, his pulpit ministry is uniquely relevant to people in all walks of life.

In addition to his admirable educational accomplishments, his diverse and impressive ministry experience spans a period of eighteen years and includes evangelistic ministry in revivals, church planting, camp meetings, and international missionary evangelism; instructional ministry in seminars, conventions, and councils; service ministry on district boards and committees (e.g., North Texas District Civic and Moral Awareness Research Committee and the Dallas Teen/Life Challenge Board, prior to moving to Arkansas); media ministry that includes both radio and television broadcasts; and previous senior pastorates in Morrisville, Missouri, and Tyler, Texas.

Pastor Bell is tenaciously evangelistic in his approach and purpose and believes that God has sent him to Pine Bluff First Assembly because "it's a new season” and the perfect time for God's prophetic mandate for First Assembly to merge with his personal ministry directives. It is now his purpose to channel all of his diverse experiences and abilities into all venues that might be effective means of impacting Pine Bluff, Southeast Arkansas, and the world for the cause of Christ.

Pastor Bell married his lovely wife, Julie, June 21, 1996. She is an accomplished vocalist and a strong partner and ministry asset. They are a dynamic team! They have one son, Bret who was born March 23, 2007.