First Baptist Church in Churdan is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a day-long event on Sunday, Aug. 24.
First Baptist Church in Churdan was organized in April 1889 with 34 members who met in Rogers Hall. The first church was built in 1891 on the present site and dedicated in October, debt free. The first pastor was L A Lovelace who was paid a salary of $200 per year. The ladies of the church formed a Bell Society to raise money for a church bell. The parsonage next to the church was built in 1906.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary, the church began making plans for an addition, including a new basement and needed classrooms. On Jan. 4, 1942, seven days before the dedication service, the janitor built the fire to warm the building for Sunday’s service. Somehow the fire spread and destroyed the building—all was lost. Services were held in the Masonic Hall until the present church was completed in 1950.
Members began work on pouring concrete for the new foundation in August 1945. In October they laid tile and brick for the basement and the cornerstone was laid Nov. 18. Then the building program ceased. The delays were mainly due to lack of supplies because of World War II. Services were held in the basement until the upper portion of the building was completed.
Another addition in 1969 provided a new entry, upstairs meeting room, enlarged kitchen and two new bathrooms.
At the present time the church supports two Bible study groups, ladies, and men’s prayer groups, American Baptist Women meetings, children and high school youth groups, Sunday School for youth and adults, vacation bible school shared with other churches, and an annual children’s Christmas program, in addition to regular Sunday worship services.
Although there have been many hardships and changes, the thing that remains true is the church’s firm stand in putting God first in all things, ensuring His word is preached from the pulpit, and His people continue in sharing the Good News of Salvation to all who will listen.
All are invited to join church members as they celebrate 125 years of God’s blessings on Sunday. The day will begin with worship at 10 am followed by a meal and a program which will include singing, recognition of past ministers, special music, words from area leaders, member memories and video of past years, capped off with cake and punch.
