Whether counseling families who’ve experienced loss, to singing heart-wrenching ballads across the pulpit, Northside Baptist Church pastor Dr. Kenny Hatcher makes sure that in everything he does he’s led by God.

Hatcher, who moved to the area from Jemison in 1998, is feeling God is leading him yet again. He will resign as pastor on April 8 and move to Guin, Ala., to pastor First Baptist Church.

“I felt this was a decision God was moving us too,” Hatcher said, who’s been Northside pastor for more than 14 years. “The only way I will go from one place to another is if God is leading.”

Hatcher will officially take over as pastor of First Baptist, on April 22. Until then, Hatcher will be recording an album.

“I’ll be recording a gospel CD in Tenn., on April 16 — a traditional CD,” Hatcher said. “It’s old, standard hymns with a Big Band feel.”

Hatcher, who’s recorded three albums so far — southern gospel, a Christmas disc and a traditional one, said his favorite hymn is “It is Well With My Soul.”

“I truly love the message and, the song speaks to my heart,” Hatcher said.

Preaching since 1973, Hatcher always knew preaching was in his destiny.

“I was living in Bibb County at the time,” Hatcher said. “I knew in my heart, I prayed and sought his will for quite a while, that it was what he had called me to do; I always thought I’d be someone’s minister of music somewhere, but God had a different plan.”

For Hatcher, he hopes he’s demonstrated strong, spiritual leadership to his congregation.

“I’ve been involved with so many things with church and community (and) I hope … I’ve tried to be a friend and a pastor, not just to the church but for people in the community,” Hatcher said. “Selma is like everywhere else; people need a pastor and a pastor needs a church. Selma has really been good to me. We’ve enjoyed Selma. God has really blessed us with our time here.”

Married to his wife Phyllis of 36 years, the couple has two daughters Amy and Brandy, son-in-law Nick, and two grandchildren Elise and Lucas.

For Hatcher, there is no sad song to sing.

“I was faithful to teach and preach the word of God and help them (the congregation) in their own spiritual journeys,” Hatcher said. “People will remember that I did my best to serve this church family, faithfully — as a pastor and a friend, to everybody.”

Hatcher will have a concert Sunday, April 1 at 6 p.m. inside the church. A reception will follow. For more information, call 874-8276.