For 175 years, First Baptist Church, Columbia, has had a strong presence in its “old,” but “quaint,” community. Although some consider it small, the Columbia Baptist Association church thinks big: leading the way in racial reconciliation with a slave among its founding members and a history of welcoming the black community into its fellowship and in missions giving with a record of giving 15 percent.
That rich history coupled with the excitement of having a new pastor and starting several new ministries meant there was much to celebrate Nov. 7.
With a larger than normal crowd, the church celebrated its milestone anniversary on its annual Harvest Day homecoming. On this day, a special offering is received for special projects done throughout the year.
During the service, First, Columbia, also honored those who have been members for 50 years or more, including Walter Hope Bryan, who has been a member for 80 years, longer than anyone else. In addition, Lonette Berg, executive director of the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission, presented the church with a plaque recognizing its years of service.
But the congregation isn’t spending too much time looking back because there is so much going on right now. Last year, First, Columbia, started a children’s ministry, a men’s ministry and a discipleship education class.
“We are laying a foundation so that our church … can be in existence for another 175 years,” Pastor Randall Johnson said. “There’s a lot of excitement in our church, and we are very, very positive about what God is going to do in the future.”
Member Brenda Pitchford agreed.
“With our new pastor, certainly, we hope our church will continue to grow in number as well as in spiritual maturity, and the rich history that we’re so blessed to be a part of, I certainly hope that will continue for many generations to come,” she said.
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