First Baptist Church, Trussville, dedicated its renovated worship building, the Sion Blythe Building, March 16.
The Blythe Building, a renovation and expansion of the sanctuary built in 1999, accommodates a congregation exceeding 4,000, houses offices, classrooms, a kitchen and an assembly room for the church’s 350 youth.
Not only was 27,000 square feet of existing building space renovated, but a driveway was enclosed to expand a gathering place where members greet, fellowship and obtain information and literature about the church’s programs.
Blyth, after whom the new building was named, founded the church in 1821 and was the first pastor. During the dedication ceremony Alabama Baptist State Historical Association Executive Director Frances Hamilton and Trussville member traced the church’s early history.
As part of First, Trussville’s, “Step by Step We Grow” stewardship campaign, this renovation was the second major reconstruction project for Trussville in the past four years.
“ ‘Step by Step We Grow’ isn’t about a progression of buildings but about following the Master – following a greater footprint than ours,” said Mike Carter, who chairs the church’s building planning committee. He said much of the third-floor work is being completed by volunteers.
The total goal for this campaign is $6 million. The Blythe building cost $2.9 million.
First, Trussville, Senior Pastor Gary Hollingsworth said the “Step by Step” project is all about the people. “Let your tour of the building be a prayer walk, with thoughts of future generations who will be positively impacted by this place,” he said.
Members toured the building and a reception followed the dedication service.
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