Orange Baptist has ‘good day’ celebrating 125th anniversary

It “was a good day for all” Oct. 17 as Orange Baptist Church in Russellville, celebrated its 125^th anniversary.

“We had a great time reminiscing and encouraging each other,” Pastor Corey Nicholson said.

During the special service, Larry Dover — director of missions for Franklin Baptist Association — shared memories of Orange Baptist, which is his home church. He also presented a plaque to the church, and Jimmy Austin of the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission presented a certificate.

Other guest speakers were Loyd Griffus and Jerry Hester, the church’s only former pastors who are still living.

The church’s original altar table was on display during the celebration, and the order of service included a timeline of important events, starting with the constituting of the church in 1896. It is believed its name came from the wild orange trees that grew in the area.