Mine? I bought memory foam insoles so I could remember why I walked into the kitchen!
First Baptist Church is doing some remembering right now. On July 4, 1875, a small group gathered with Rev. A.W. Hilton to discuss forming a Baptist church in Luverne. The church began meeting in the local school every other week, alternating with Methodist services. In 1876 the newly formed church adopted a statement of faith outlining its core beliefs based on the Bible.
Could those early church members have imagined what the church would be like 150 years later? Likely not. But they trusted in a God who does not change — and the promises they clung to are the same promises we cherish today.
In 1888 First Baptist sent its first missionary, Miss Mary O’Keefe, to share Christ with freed slaves in Mississippi. Two years later Miss Lavina Mead was commissioned to serve in Japan. From the beginning, we have had a heart to share the hope we have in Jesus.
Some memorable milestones:
•1895 – Electric lights installed for $43.49.
•1925 – First Vacation Bible School held (a relatively new concept at the time).
•Great Depression – Corn sold for 10¢ a bushel and was used to heat the church.
•1944 – First telephone installed in the church office.
•1947 – A sister church was started in Adrian to bring the hope of Christ to that area.
•1976 – “Dial-a-Meditation” began, offering a weekly devotional and prayer line by phone.
What will the church look like in 2175, 150 years from now? We can’t predict what the buildings will be like or the technology, but we know this: God’s Word will not change. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” The message of salvation through Jesus Christ will remain constant.
We are celebrating 150 years in Luverne on June 21 and 22, and we invite you to join us in remembering what God has done through one of his churches in this community.
