Citronelle Memorial Church marks 50 years

Citronelle Memorial Church marks 50 years

After a 1957 census revealed more than 300 unchurched Baptists living in the Citronelle area, members of First Baptist Church, Citronelle, began planning to organize another church to reach them. Within a few months, 60 charter members established Citronelle Memorial Baptist Church in Mobile Baptist Association.

Recently more than 300 current and former members, pastors and music directors gathered to celebrate Citronelle Memorial Baptist’s 50-year anniversary with a special worship service and covered-dish luncheon. “Our 50th anniversary celebration was a wonderful time when old friendships were renewed and past experiences were revisited,” Pastor Eddie Bates said.

It was also a time of looking to the challenges of the future. “Our church will seek in the future to do what it’s done in the past, that is to minister to the needs — both spiritual and physical — of the people in this community and throughout the world in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” Bates said.