In late 1988, the church elected the Rev. Joseph H. Finnell, Ed. D. an associate minister of Mt. Zion, as pastor.  He was installed on February 19, 1989.  During his pastorate Dr. Finnell, continued the legacy of his mentor, Dr. R. T. Andrews, Sr.  The church continued its involvement at the local, state and national levels.  Emphasis was placed on youth ministry and Christian Education.  The Board of Christian Education was reorganized and a Director of Christian Education was appointed.  Dr. Finnell was involved in many community and religious activities.  He was on the Education Board of PNBC.  He was president of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Baptist State Convention of Indiana at the time of his death.  Dr. Finnell died on Sunday, February 10, 1997 following a brief illness.  He preached his final sermon entitled, "Don't Give Up" that Sunday at the 8:00 am worship service.