First Baptist Church will host a dedication service for its recently completed “CrossRoads” addition on Sunday, June 2nd, followed by a community open house on Monday, June 3rd. CrossRoads completes the first phase of the historic downtown church’s long-range master plan to update, improve, and expand its facilities.
The two million dollar initial phase of the project was funded through a capital campaign conducted by its members. Themed "We’re Here for Life", the campaign encouraged members to invest in the church’s future and its commitment to Murfreesboro’s downtown area. Jason Larkins, project manager from Brentwood’s Orion Building Corporation, said of the CrossRoads addition, “First Baptist Church in Murfreesboro is now seeing their vision come to life.”
Organized in 1843, the congregation’s first building was constructed in 1848 at the corner of South Spring and Sevier Streets; members constructed another building on East Main after the Civil War. After fire destroyed a portion of the church’s campus, the congregation relocated to its current site at 200 East Main Street in 1920.
Minister to Senior Adults and Congregational Care Pam Pilote said, “We are so blessed to have a history-rich building with architectural features that would be cost-prohibitive in today’s market. With our new entrance and greatly enhanced accessibility, our facility now says what our folks have always said: ‘Welcome! Come right on in. We are glad that you are here!’”
The historic church states as its vision “To create a community of faith in Jesus Christ in the heart of Murfreesboro” and declares its mission statement as “We strive to build an authentic community of diverse individuals by serving Jesus Christ, providing relevant Bible study and worship, and engaging in hands-on ministry.”
Church member Charlie Myatt served as chair of the phase one implementation committee. “I am so excited about the completion of our new CrossRoads addition. We look forward to the formal dedication ceremony on Sunday and to sharing our new facility with our community on Monday, June 3. These events represent the culmination of several years of planning as well as the construction process. I want to thank all of those who have played a part in making this happen, and most of all I want to thank our Lord for His many blessings, which have made it all possible,” he said.
Although 2013 marks First Baptist Church’s 170th anniversary, this spring has been a season of new beginnings for the congregation. The season began with a “Celebration Sunday” in honor of its new pastor, Dr. Noel Schoonmaker, who said, “The CrossRoads Addition is a physical manifestation of the warm hospitality that has long characterized First Baptist Church. It provides a beautiful entrance to the church, an access ramp for persons with special needs, and a lovely gathering area, among other features. We invite the community to enter its glass doors any Sunday morning at 9:00 or 11:15 to join us in worshiping God.”
Located at 200 East Main Street in Murfreesboro, the church has altered its usual schedule to accommodate the day’s activities. Sunday’s Bible study will take place at 9:30, followed by a dedication and worship service at 10:45 a.m.; Monday’s community open house will be held from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church welcomes all visitors; for more information, go to www.fbcmboro.org or call (615) 893-2514.
Source:
Amelia King Bozeman
