Pastor Richard Dykes and his wife, Barbie, lead our ministry team. They provide spiritual direction for Buna UPC, and represent more than fifty years of combined ministry experience.   Pastor Dykes is an enthusiastic outgoing person who rarely meets a stranger. His zest for life and his love for people are evident the moment one first meets him. As an anointed minister of the Gospel, Bro Dykes delivers solid-bible-based teaching and preaching designed to enhance one's relationship with Jesus Christ.    Before assuming the pastorate of Buna UPC in August of 2006, Bro Dykes served as an Associate Pastor at First Pentecostal Church in New Orleans, LA. He has served in various sectional and district positions in the United Pentecostal Church, International, including Sectional Sunday School Director and Louisiana District Foreign Missions Director.   Bro and Sis Dykes are natives of the metro New Orleans area, and have two married sons; Richard Jr who is married to Colleen, and Nicholas who is married to Brandy. The Dykes are the proud grandparents of Annie, Layla, and Molly, daughters of Richard Jr. and Colleen. Also, Evangeline and Blaine, daughter and son of Nicholas and Brandy.

At Buna United Pentecostal Church you will find a variety of ministries ranging from world missions to local ministries. 
There is something here for each member of your family.

On the local level, we offer: 

• Sunday School classes for children and youth
  • Every Sunday monring @ 10 AM
• Children's Church for children (ages 4-11)
  • Every Wednesday night @ 7:30 PM
• Youth services (CORE Student Ministries)
  • Every Wednesday @ 5 PM
• College and career group (The Dash)
  • Every Wednesday @ 7:30 PM
• Young Marrieds'
  • Every Wednesday @ 7:30 PM
• Special events for both men and women

From a world missions perspective, we assist in the financial support of several dozen missionaries around the world.
Stateside, we participate in the financial support of a variety of ministries ranging from Tupelo Children's Mansion to new church plants. 

Music Ministry- Carolyn Holloway is the leader of the music department and also serves as the church secretary. She has been involved in the music department for 10 years serving with a deep love and passion for music.

Sunday School Department- Jennifer Stark prospers as the head of the Sunday School department. Her activity, along with the dedicated Sunday School team, strives to educate the children of the church by teaching Bible lessons and helping children develop their love for God.

K.I.D.S. Church Department- Deborah Sammons thrives as the leader of our K.I.D.S church ministry. She has been involved for 5 years and succeeds in teaching children, along with the faithful K.I.D.S church team, Bible lessons and life lessons that will plant a seed in their future relationship with God.

Youth Department - Randy & Katy Wagstaff, along with Mark and Carly Walley and Lucas and Naomi Sammons, head the Youth Department. The Wagstaffs have been involved in the youth department for 20 years, dedicating their life to the youth of our community. This team is serving the youth by teaching and having youth services, participating in church youth activities, and being there for support and encouragement.

College and Career Group- Providing spiritual support and time to help the young adults of the church, Barbra Dykes, along with being our pastor's wife, serves to educate, encourage, and provide activities for the age group of college individuals.

Young Marrieds-Randy & Katy Wagstaff, as well as David & Kourtney McGuire, head the Young Marrieds’ department. They are there to oversee or conduct any activities, whether it be church activities or enjoyable outings.