Welcome to Friends Forever TV

During 1957 Pastor Tom & Betty Whidden launched the First Assembly of God, Concord, North Carolina.  His love for the Lord Jesus Christ, people and community has been contagious! He began the church at the Concord "Movie" Theater! He and Betty would as he said "...clean the place up on Sunday morning" and then have a church gathering!

Against all odds, this boy, born in Parrish, Florida, rose to use the many gifts and talents bestowed to him by the Lord God Almighty to accomplish exceedingly, abundantly beyond all he could think or imagine, to bring God glory throughout his life.

Pastor Tom often said he was used by God — not because he was the most qualified — but because he was available and obedient to initiate the seemingly impossible tasks God asked him to do and then God was faithful to see them through to completion.

It would stand to reason, that in the process of listening to God and loving people for more than 60 years, Pastor Tom changed the community and world around him. 

His ministry began in a day and age where there was no global internet.  Face-to-face interaction was the norm.  Taking time to spend time with others was Pastor Tom’s daily choice; he didn't get angry when the plans of his day were interrupted by other’s life emergencies.  

He used those emergencies to lay hands on the sick and pray a prayer of faith; to listen to the brokenhearted; to comfort those who mourned with words from heaven and to dream the dreams of others with words of encouragement.



From the early days in the first gathering place "the movie theater" to the great campus today in beloved Concord. God has been given all the honor from Pastor Tom's leadership. He and Betty (married 67 years) are people persons, even reaching out to the youngest!  



Since 2006 to 2021 he served on the Board of Directors of this mission. In March 2007 he assumed the Vice-President duties of this 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. He was wise, discerning and encouraged this ministry to keep launching/reaching out to get the Gospel on more cable companies! Tom always a delight to share his time and lead by example that fellowship was not optional! "Come see us" was always his mission statement to get together!

On Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021 Tom experienced, as his daughter Joy said, "...total resurrection power..." He completed his eighty-six year journey on earth and is now in Heaven. Forever we will keep in our hearts and conversation.

Tom's wife Betty resides in Murtle Beach, South Carolina!