Larry Dickens

Larry G. Dickens has dedicated his life to strengthening the church through worship, leadership, and teamwork. He has served churches in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia in roles including minister of music, church administrator, and executive pastor.

In 2013, Larry was appointed the Duncan Chair of Church Music and Worship at Campbell University Divinity School, where he taught and mentored future leaders while continuing to serve as Minister of Music at Hayes Barton Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC.

Larry holds degrees in Music Education, a Master of Divinity, a Master of Church Music, and a Doctor of Ministry in church music and leadership. He is also a certified facilitator of the “6 Types of Working Genius” model, helping ministry teams discover their gifts, work with greater joy, and reduce unnecessary frustration.

Larry has a passion for worship that is biblically rooted, historically connected, and theologically consistent. He has conducted regional orchestras and choirs, leading tours nationally and internationally. In June 2022, he directed the Hayes Barton Choir, Campbell Divinity School singers, and guests in a feature concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Outside of consulting, Larry and his wife Gail, a retired educator, enjoy traveling and spending time with friends and former students. Their daughter, Faith, is a minister living with her husband in Richmond, Virginia.

Q & A with Larry Dickens

What inspired you to serve as a church consultant?

I’ve had the privilege of serving in multiple church leadership roles—minister of music, church administrator, and executive pastor. Some of the teams I worked with were incredibly high-functioning, and their impact was remarkable. Consulting gives me the chance to inspire other teams to pursue excellence and elevate their effectiveness.

What are your primary areas of focus?

My primary focus is elevating teamwork—whether with church staffs, deacon groups, music and worship teams, or transition committees. I also love helping churches with traditional and classic worship styles embrace vibrancy and celebrate their heritage.

Can you share a memorable success story?

I once led a group of deacons through a Working Genius assessment. The oldest member, in his 80s, was the first to complete the assessment and one of the first to affirm how helpful it was. His enthusiasm set the tone for the entire group, encouraging others to share openly about their gifts and how they could work better together.

How do you integrate your faith and training in consulting?

My professional training has always been shaped by my faith and call to ministry. I love the church deeply and want to use my gifts to inspire excellence in ministry.

What kinds of churches or leaders do you feel called to work with?

I have extensive experience with congregations that embrace classic expressions of worship, but I’ve found that the work of elevating teams is universal. I especially enjoy working with leaders who are eager to grow and reach the next level of leadership.

Why does this work matter personally to you?

I’ve seen churches and leaders with tremendous potential underestimate their gifts. Sometimes all they need is encouragement and “fresh eyes” to move from surviving to thriving.

Do you have a favorite scripture that guides your work?

“Strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a more excellent way.” — 1 Corinthians 12:31

What states are you available for consultation?

North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia.

Email Larry

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