He has ministered to the flock for the last two months. Sunday, he becomes the official shepherd.

The Rev. Richard Carter will be installed as the pastor of Triedstone Baptist Church in a service at 3:30 p.m. Sunday. He first assumed duties at the church two months ago when then-pastor Henry Fletcher became ill.

Carter, 62, has been a minister for 11 years. Prior to his work at Triedstone, he was associate pastor at First Baptist Church of Burlington, serving with his brother, Dr. Douglas E. Carter, who pastors that congregation.

The title "Reverend Carter" is really a family tradition.

In addition to Richard and Douglas, brother James Carter pastors a church in Austin, Texas and sister Bertha Carter Freeman is an evangelist who lives in Columbus.

Both of his brothers are expected to be in attendance for the installation service; his sister may attend as well.

Richard Carter said the family's love for God was instilled in them at an early age by God-fearing parents.

"My parents were really Christian-believing people," Carter said. "The prayers of my mother sure went a long way. She passed away at the age of 42; she left 12 children. But she always raised us in church. She made sure we were there. We were raised to believe in God and to know where our help comes from."

Triedstone Baptist Church is located at 615 Depot St. Worship times are Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. followed by morning worship at 10:45.