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FBC of Blackwell to celebrate 100 years of worship |
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Written by Brian McCormack
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Saturday, 19 September 2009 |
Living in Blackwell could be the epitome of small town Texas living. Incorporated in 1906, the quiet Nolan County hamlet is home to one stoplight, a modest high school boasting a beloved six-man football squad, and two longstanding churches. One of the churches, the First Baptist Church of Blackwell, is preparing for its upcoming Centennial, which will be held on Sunday, Oct. 11.
The Centennial Committee, comprised of Sue Parker, Hulene Magness, Vickie Meffert, and Shirley Passmore, have been striving to make the quaint church's 100 year anniversary a memorable one. At least two Christian music acts are slated to perform; The Dixons and Called Out. Pastors Aubrey Jones and John Curry will deliver sermons. A slide presentation, as well as the chance to purchase a homespun cookbook, 'Heavenly Delights', a collaboration of recipes taken from the ladies' kitchens who populate the FBC's congregation, will also be part of the days' events.
Speaking of food, a full fried chicken dinner with all the trimmings will be served to those who attend the event. Aubrey Jones, the 41st pastor to take the reigns at FBC Blackwell, said that the organizers of the centennial have worked hard to ensure it will be a enjoyable day. "The ladies have taken care of most everything," he said. "They did the heavy lifting and made it real easy for me."
The church's storied history is part of what makes this particular celebration so special. The original church used to baptize congregants in what is now known as Oak Creek. The first pastor at the church, J.H. McLaughlin, will be remembered, as his son, John McLaughlin out of Garland, may make an appearance at the event.
Jones has nothing but positive things to say about his time so far as pastor of the down-home church. Originally from Austin, and having served as a pastor in the metroplex area, he said, "This is without a doubt the most loving church I have ever been a part of. The people are very accepting, and it has been a privilege to serve here."
The church is also proactive in the community it calls home, and works with its neighbors in any way it can. One upcoming mission, Texas Hope 2010, is being implemented by the FBC congregation. According to Jones, the Baptist General Convention of Texas (BGCT), is launching a statewide push to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to every home in the state. "Our focus is our zip code," says Jones. "We may not be able to take care of Houston, but we can take care of Blackwell."
Church services at the First Baptist Church of Blackwell start at 11 a.m. on most Sundays, with a Bible study following the service. There are also services offered each Sunday evening at 6 p.m., and on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. On Oct. 11, the day of the centennial celebration, the Sunday morning sermon will be held at 10 a.m. The public is invited to attend. "We're very pleased and proud that we have made it 100 years," Jones added. |
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 23 September 2009 )
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