BISHOP T. L. WELCH, SR., AN EMINENT PREACHER.

        Among the good and loyal Baptist preachers of Louisiana stands towering high Elder Thomas Lee Welch, who was born in Louisiana in 1859. His parents moved to Texas in 1861, but owing to bad health the family moved back to Louisiana. When quite young Brother Welch showed signs of a desire for learning, accordingly in 1869 he entered school. After completing his English Course misfortune came to his parents which made it necessary for him to begin teaching school.

        When he had taught three or four years, he became acquainted with Miss Sarah Carter and after five years they were married. This union has been blessed with three children, the younger of whom, T. L. Welch, Jr., is a successful physician. Elder Welch was converted and by baptism added to the Morning Star Baptist Church, July 7, 1878. Five years after he joined the church, it became pastorless, and being led by the Spirit to believe that Bishop Welch was the man, called him to their pastorate in 1885. In 1902 he was elected pastor of New Zion Baptist Church, which he pastored successfully for seven years, having added three hundred souls and raised to their credit $4,670.60.

        Brother Welch has held and now holds many positions of honor and trust. In 1887 he was unanimously elected secretary of the Fifth District Association, which position he filled with credit five years. In 1903 he was elected Treasurer of this same body and served with that dignity and honor which becometh a Christian minister, and in 1908 he was elected Treasurer of the Louisiana Baptist State Convention. He fills this position now (1912) to the satisfaction of this great body. Bishop Welch enjoys the confidence and esteem of all who know him.

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