First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs...a History

Church Greening Service, 2009

2009-12-05T20:48:00.031-05:00

The Greening of the Church was held on Sunday, November 29, 2009. In years past this service has been known as the Hanging of the Green.

The celebration of Christmas for Christians is such an important part of the church that it is easy to assume it has always been celebrated. But the major Christian festival for the early Christian church as Easter. Around the fourth century, Christmas became part of the Christian calendar and by the year 336, December 25 was generally established as the date of Jesus' birth. Soon afterwards, church leaders began to feel the need for a period of preparation leading up to the actual celebration of the Christ Child's birth - thus we have the Advent season.

The observance of the Hanging of the Green is an old English custom of decorating one's home with evergreens and other festive wrappings for Advent and Christmas. For all of us here at First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs we continue a very special tradition with the decorating of God's house with evergreens on this, the first Sunday of Advent, 2009.

The Church....Decorated for Christmas

2009-12-05T19:29:00.026-05:00

The church decorations for the Christmas season....Many thanks to the flower committee led by Melanie Bearden for all of their hard work.

Wild Game Dinner, 2009

2009-11-27T23:15:00.001-05:00

New Elevator to the Youth Floor

2009-11-27T14:33:00.007-05:00

This article appeared in the Douglas County Sentinel on September 13, 2009.

It says:

First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs dedicated a new elevator during a short dedication service on Sunday, August 23rd.

The elevator project began in January, 2009 by the church building committee consisting of Dot Callaway, Tom Richardson, Jim Rose, Jim West and Richard Young. Thyssen Krupp Elevator Company of Marietta constructed and installed the elevator, and the building construction was handled by Fine Living Home Builders, Inc. under the leadership of Danny Harrison. Along with the elevator, new restrooms were also installed on the third floor. The project took longer than was initially anticipated due to weather and a planned time-out while church members participated in a Church Mission Trip to Blairsville, Georgia. Final approval by the State Inspection Department on August 18, 2009 prompted the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

During the dedication ceremony, Senior Pastor, Kevin McKoy advised several things prompted the installation of the elevator including the fact that one wheelchair bound student, Stevie Spurrier, as well as other students from time to time, could not reach the third floor where youth services and activities were held. Since the campus only had one elevator other members of the congregation were often inconvenienced when the elevator was out of service. Pastor McKoy also noted the installation of the elevator extended the work of former pastor, Dr. Robert Whitmire, and the Journey to Tomorrow building campaign.

After Pastor McKoy led the congregation in a dedication prayer, the elevator key passed from Danny Harrison to building committee member, Tom Richardson. Mr. Richardson along with other members of the committee cut the ribbon. The first official elevator trip was taken by Natasha and Steve Spurrier in their son’s absence and senior members, Roberta Quinn and Jeanne Redwine. A ribbon cutting was also held on the second floor. Once the elevator arrived at the third floor another ribbon was cut and Danny Anderson, Associate Pastor to Students, along with several youth members rode the elevator on the return trip to the first floor.

First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs has a long and rich history. The church was founded in 1946 following a vision received by Mr. Loy T. Chandler, Sr. where he saw a beautiful church located in the heart of Lithia Springs. Mr. Chandler shared his vision with friends and family and a small group of twelve people including Mr. Chandler organized the church on April 7, 1946.

Over the years First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs located at 3566 Veterans Memorial Highway has undergone several expansions. The church offers two morning worship services and one evening service each Sunday . Wednesday activities include dinner, Faithweavers, a program for pre-schoolers and children that combines music and missions, youth activities, and new discipleship training for adults begins September 9th. The church office can be reached at 770-948-2126.

You can see a video of the actual dedication here.

Deacon Ordination, 2009

2009-11-27T14:24:00.005-05:00

Click on each image to enlarge the scan.

Images from the Singles Department

2009-11-27T13:17:00.006-05:00

These are images that were given to the historical committee recently. They are from a trip the Singles Department took. We are still gathering information regarding the identities of everyone in the picture, the date of of the trip and location.

If you have any information regarding these images please leave a comment or email the committee.

Baby Shower for the Pregnancy Resource Center

2009-11-21T22:01:00.003-05:00

The Women’s Enrichment Ministry hosted a baby shower for the Pregnancy Resource Center on Saturday, November 14, 2009 in the Activities Center.

The soundtrack on this video is Angels Wings by Marisa from her album East of Everything……found on YouTube.

This video shows the details on each decorated table. The soundtrack is Sunlight by Kevin Kenley.

Wild Game Dinner: 1998

2009-09-09T07:35:00.012-04:00

Wild Game Dinner: 2001

2009-09-09T05:16:00.017-04:00

New Elevator Dedication!

2009-08-24T12:36:00.004-04:00

You can see a newspaper article regarding the dedication here

WEM Spa Night

2009-08-10T09:35:00.001-04:00

Cub Scout Pack 555

2009-08-10T07:42:00.006-04:00

Here are some images taken at the church regarding Cub Scout Pack 555….the group used our facilities.

The February 6, 2000 bulletin had the following blurb: Cub Scout Pack 555 has had a great year. We moved 4 boys to Boy Scouts last year. We have picked up 11 new Tigers, 3 new Wolves, 2 new Webelos and 4 new leaders. The pack has 36 total charter members. We have had two Stone Mountain camp outs, overnight to Atlanta Zoo, a great Webelos woods campout and almost 100 participants at our Blue and Gold celebration at Sweetwater Park. Looking forward to graduating 5 boys to Boy Scouts this year and hosting the District Pine Wood Derby in April.

The cub master during this time was Earl Williams.

(Click on the pictures to enlarge them....)

McKoy is Sr. Pastor at Lithia First Baptist

2009-08-10T07:33:00.004-04:00

The following article appeared in the Douglas County Sentinel on March 5, 2009. The text of the article states:

Pastor Kevin McKoy is now the Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church in Lithia Springs.
Pastor McKoy and his wife Christy and their two children Ryley and Camryn have been part of the church family at First Baptist, Lithia Springs since January, 2007, when he was called as Associate Pastor to Students.

Prior to First Baptist, he served as the Associate Pastor/Minister of Youth & Education in LaGrange, Georgia, and as pastor of Westside Baptist Church in Hinesville, Georgia. He served as an Army chaplain in the United States Army and the Georgia Army National Guard where he out-processed at the rank of Captain.
He was called to serve First Baptist, Lithia Springs as Senior Pastor last fall and continues to lead in this capacity, as the church reaches out to the surrounding community with the gospel of Christ.

Under Pastor McKoy’s leadership the church offers two Sunday morning worship services and a Wednesday evening Prayer Meeting.

Pastor McKoy announces that upcoming events will include an Easter celebration, and an Arts and Crafts Fair and Car Show in May, which will benefit missions, and the church’s annual Vacation Bible School, featuring “Boomerang Express,” coming June 8-12.

The McKoys live in the Canterbury Lane subdivision in the northwest part of Douglasville. Christy teaches second grade at Winston Elementary School.

Senior Adult Day, 2009

2009-05-02T19:26:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is Senior Adult Day at FBCLS. This video shows all the various ways our Senior Adults serve the Lord and our congregation:

A New Pastor

2009-03-15T15:43:00.003-04:00

In June, 2008 Pastor Kevin McKoy became the Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs following eighteen months as Associate Pastor to Students where he provided spiritual and administrative leadership for grades 6 through college.

From the biography Pastor McKoy presented to the church:

Kevin was born on December12,1972 in Newnan, Georgia. He graduated from Newnan High School in 1991 and was accepted into North Georgia College in Dahlonega, Georgia. He graduated from North Georgia College with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Finance in 1995. During his college years, Kevin was involved in the Corps of Cadets ROTC program at North Georgia. It was during this time that he enlisted into the United States Army to the Artillery Branch. Upon completion of his degree requirements, Kevin was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Chaplain’s Corps. He attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where he completed his Master of Divinity degree in 2001.

Prior to coming to First Baptist, Kevin served as the Associate Pastor and Minister of Youth and Education at Unity Baptist Church, LaGrange, Georgia for five years. He also served as Pastor of Westside Baptist Church in Hinesville, Georgia for three years. Kevin served as an Army Chaplain in the United States Army and the Georgia Army National Guard from 1996 until 2005 when he out-processed at the rank of Captain. While attending college in north Georgia, Kevin also served as Youth Minister at Northlake Baptist Church and at Dahlonega Baptist Church.

It was at North Georgia College where Kevin met his wife, Christy. They were married in Christy’s hometown of Claxton, Georgia on March 14, 1998. The McKoys have two beautiful children, Ryley and Camryn.

Pastor McKoy advises:

I was called to full-time ministry during my junior year of college. Since NGC was a military college, the Lord led me to combine ministry and military by pursuing the Army Chaplain’s program. I was licensed from my home church, Elim Baptist Church in Newnan, Georgia, in September of 1994. Since that time I have served the Lord at both a church and military level. Upon accepting my first pastorate at Westside Baptist Church in Hinesville, Georgia, I was ordained into the gospel ministry in January of 1998.”

The biography concludes:

Kevin has a passionate call to ministry on his life. He believes that God still desires to reach people with His message of hope and joy. Kevin and Christy have expressed their heartfelt desire to continue to be faithful in whatever God has planned for them.

Isaiah 40:31 – Yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.

God Gave Mr. Chandler a Vision

2009-03-15T14:30:00.005-04:00

While a group of folks can be credited with organizing FBCLS in 1946, one man, Loy T. Chandler, Sr., received a vision from God of a beautiful church in Lithia Springs. God inspired Mr. Chandler and he in turn carried the message to his friends and family.

During a Homecoming service in 1980 Mrs. Chandler spoke about the day Mr. Chandler received his vision from God. The following is the text of her speech:

Mrs. Leavell asked me to say a few words about what I could remember about the beginning of our church. So I began to think back and, oh I had so many wonderful thoughts, I didn’t know exactly where to start. So I decided to start at the very beginning—this is not in the minutes.

This church is Mr. Chandler’s dream—vision. We came in from church, Union Grove. I got dinner on the table and went to call Mr. Chandler to the table, and he was sitting in his chair, and not paying any attention to me at all.

In a few minutes he got up and said, “Let the children go ahead and eat. I want you and me to go over to Mrs. Copeland’s and call Cora, Ed, Ike, and Vassie. The Lord spoke to me in my dream and showed me the most beautiful church.” And everyone I called to meet with us after we had a prayer meeting agreed we did need a church, so everyone was of one mind and one accord, and a mind to work and work we did.

I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do about leaving Union Grove Church. I had so many irons in the fire. At that time I was B.Y.P.U. Director, President of Women’s Missionary Society, and taught the young people and Intermediates together—it was a one-room church at that time.
So Mr. Chandler said, “I understand how you feel and you do what the Lord wants you to do.” I don’t think I have ever prayed as hard and sincere in my life, and I assure you, the Lord answers prayer in His own way. I was sitting at my desk reading and praying, and a white church appeared to me so bright, I couldn’t look at it, I had to close my eyes. I said, ‘Thank you, Lord, for showing me the way.’ I had no trouble asking for my letter.

I went to Mr. Chandler and told him I was ready to go to work with him. We went to the Home Mission Board and spent the day with Mr. Steel. He said, “It is a wonderful thing you are doing, but unless you are able to take criticism and hard blows, you better not start.” Before we left, he said, “I know you are sincere and I will help you with anything I can.”

Mr. Chandler said the first church, the one that burned, was just like the one in his dream.
But with all the hard work and sacrifice, it would not have been what it is today except God gave us three fine men of God. Our preachers, Brother Patterson, who really led us in a wonderful way, I don’t know what we would have done without him. Then Dr. Beaver, he wasn’t a “Dr.” then, he was just Marion and we loved him so much and still do. And Brother Whitmire, who is now leading us in a marvelous way and our church is still growing under his leadership. We praise the Lord for sending him to us. I think I can speak for all, that we all love you, and wish many happy years with us.

An Important Letter

2009-03-01T16:14:00.006-05:00

The following letter was written on THIS date sixty-three years ago. The letter was addressed to Mr. Ed Ralls, a founding member of FBCLS. The letter was written by Glenn Florence, a Senator in the Georgia General Assembly. In the letter Mr. Florence agrees to donate a plot of land in downtown Lithia Springs for the church.

Mr. Florence is pictured to the left. The text of his letter is provided below:

Punta Gorda, Florida
March 1, 1946

Mr. E. Ralls,

Dear friend and brother. I read your letter this p.m. and knowing the need of a Baptist church and Sunday School in Lithia , I feel I owe my Lord a debt I can never repay and am not trying to repay.

But wanting to try to help in any way I can, I will be glad to donate a church site if the place can be used. First, how much frontage would you want? Second, I would rather not have it on highway between stores and Mr. Alley’s place. Third, have you looked at place next to school house, as you could utilize part of school grounds for large Sunday crowds. How soon do you plan on starting a building?

I have some lots on the left side of road to Sweetwater Creek. You might get Mr. Walt Mozeley to show you the places and write me the amount of frontage needed and the depth and place, and I am sure we can get together.

Thanking you for the change to do something, I remain

Your brother-in-Christ

Glenn Florence

Upward Basketball, Older Students

2009-02-25T11:34:00.033-05:00

This game was played on February 14, 2009.

Upward Basketball, Younger Students

2009-02-21T12:33:00.018-05:00

WEM: Spring Cleaning for Our Souls

2009-02-11T10:16:00.018-05:00

On April 22, 2007 the WEM sponsored Spring Cleaning for Our Souls. The event included entertainment and dinner. FBCLS member, Frances Young was the speaker.

WEM Cookie Swap: December, 2007

2009-02-11T05:47:00.036-05:00

The second annual cookie swap was held on December 3, 2007.

Ladies brought enough cookies to share and swap along with their recipes.

Tweetie Bowman read our Christmas story.

The cookie swap is a great way for women to get together and usher in the Christmas season by focusing on the birth of Christ .

Women's Retreat: October, 2007

2009-02-11T05:36:00.006-05:00

Our women went A.W.O.L (Away With Out Lord)!!!

Led by Ann Mitchell and Antonette Mitchell of Platoon P31 Ministries, the women’s retreat on October 12-13, 2007 allowed almost 60 women to enjoy some special time with the Lord – and each other.

They laughed, sang, prayed, laughed, rejoiced, reflected, and…did I mention laughed…on this special retreat. They truly got away with the Lord and were able to focus on Him and their relationships with each other during their wonderful time of retreat.

The retreat location was Shocco Springs.

Happy Anniversary: Mike Sinyard

2008-11-16T12:34:00.007-05:00

Mike Sinyard was formerly approved as Education Minister on October 12, 1983 at a called conference. A week later the following announcement appeared in the church bulletin:

In both morning worship services last Lord’s Day, the church voted unanimously to call Rev. Mike Sinyard as our Associate Pastor/Education. By telephone, Mike was extended the call to come to First Baptist. Mike accepted, and he, and his wife, Karen and son, Bailey, will be moving to our community in about a month.

From the church’s 50th anniversary handout:

James Michael Sinyard became Associate Pastor/Education at First Baptist, Lithia Springs, in November, 1983 He was born June 18, 1948, in Austell, the oldest of three children. Mike accepted Christ when he was nine years old here at First Baptist in 1957 on the last day of Vacation Bible School.

He graduated from Columbus College, Columbus, Georgia with a B.B.A. Degree. He earned his M.R.E. Degree in 1981 from Southwestern Theological Seiminary, Fort Worth, Texas. Mike was licensed to ministry in 1977 by Gentian Baptist Church, Columbus, Georgia, and ordained by First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs, in 1978.

Mike has served Green Acres Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama; Gentian Baptist Church, Columbus, Georgia; Fairview Baptist Church in Columbus; and Southwest LaGrange Baptist Church in LaGrange, Georgia. He has conducted numerous Sunday School workshops for the State Sunday School Department, and has served as Associational Discipleship Training Director and Associational Sunday School Director for West Metro Bapist Association.

In years past FBCLS recorded staff anniversaries by the Sunday the staff member began their employment. Mike’s anniversary is celebrated on the third Sunday in November every year because he started on the third Sunday in November, 1983.

In a church directory a years ago Mike’s duties as Minister of Education was described this way:

The ministry of education comprises a myriad of avenues and opportunities to “increase in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.” Sunday School, Church Training, Vacation Bible School, Royal Ambassadors, Girls in Action and Acteens are just a few of the ways we minister through education.

In the same description Mike stated, “Being the Minister of Education at First Baptist is a challenge filled with countless blessings. It is a joy and privilege to serve God with you.

Today, November 16, 2008, the church is honoring Mike and Karen’s service to our church with a reception following the 6:00 p.m. service.

Veterans Day: Our Video Presentation

2008-11-11T08:08:00.001-05:00

Each veteran featured in the video above can be found in the series of postings for Veterans Day including their images, their names, and a bit about their service to our county.

Follow this link here for a complete listing.

Many thanks to Denise Haas for her song Thank You to the American Soldier. You can find out more about Denise (Big D) at her website Big D & the Good New Blues.

Happy Veterans Day!

Veterans Day: A Different Display

2008-11-11T07:50:00.004-05:00

This year the FBCLS Historical Committee decided to display our veterans in a different manner. Each photograph (now a total of 61) is currently being displayed in the sanctuary foyer as seen in the pictures below. Each photo is captioned with the person’s name and a little bit about their service to their county.

During Sunday’s service (November 9, 2008) a short Powerpoint presentation similar to the movie seen here was shown and a leaflet using the Veteran’s Day logo, seen above, contained the names of the individuals and our thanks.

Veterans were also asked to stand in our traditional worship service. Many of the men and women standing have not yet submitted their pictures to the historical committee. It’s not too late! Now that the images are digitized here at the church history blog it is very easy to scan the images and add them to our tribute here and to the movie which can be shown yearly.

Veterans are encouraged to drop their picture by the church office, contact any member of the historical committee, or email the committee at fbclshistory@mail.com.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Our Own Unknown Soldier

2008-11-10T11:30:00.002-05:00

This military photo was found in the historical archives of FBCLS, but it is not labelled and currently he is our unknown soldier. If you know who he might be please email the historical committee at fbclshistory@mail.com .

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: 1990s to 2008

2008-11-10T11:13:00.008-05:00

The following veterans are members of FBCLS or are related to members of the church. They served their county in the 1990s and into the new millenium or are serving their current as of this posting date.

You can click on the images to make them larger.

FBCLS pastor, Kevin McKoy, served in the U.S. Army in the capacity of a chaplain from 1992 to 2004.

Tara Williams is the granddaughter of Billy and Ellen Dobbins. She served in Iraq.

Eric J. Haight also served in Iraq and is the grandson of Frank and Shirley Cloud

SmSgt. Luther Phillip Snider served in the Air Force from 1981 to 2008. He took part in Desert Storm, and is the son of Phil and Carol Snider.

Shawn Woolever, the son-in-law of Phil and Carol Snider has been in the army since 1999. He has completed three tours in Iraq and is currently there.

Anthony Harper served in the U.S. Marine Corps from December, 1999 to 2005. He spent six months in Iraq during his enlistment.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing

Veterans Day: Men Serving Their County in the 1970s and 1980s

2008-11-10T10:40:00.009-05:00

The following FBCLS members are veterans of the armed forces during the 1970s and 1980s. Captions identifying the pictures are underneath each image.

You can click on the images to make them larger.

David Cooper served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Harry E. Yarnell from 1978 to 1983 as an operations specialist. While aboard the Yarnell (pictured below) David participated in many cruises through the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean.

From 1984 through 1986 David served on shore as a Systems Integration Test Analyst at Damneck, Virginia.The USS Harry E. Yarnell, David Cooper's ship.

Wesley Griffin served in the U.S. Army as an x-ray technician and worked in nuclear medicine. During his enlistment he spent six months in Egypt as a peacekeeper. He also served at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky as well.

Chris Griffin served with the Combat Engineering Division in German during Desert Storm.

Joe Dickens served with the U.S. Army during peacetime.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Captain Bob Akers

2008-11-10T09:08:00.001-05:00

Robert (Bob) L. Akers, Jr. retired from the U.S. Army with the rank of captain in 1972. Prior to his retirement he had quite a career.

Bob served in the US Navy (1958-1962) and US Army (1963-1972) and retired after almost 21 years of service. While in the Navy he served aboard the USS Shangri La (CVA-38), USS Walker (DDR-517) and USS Mount Katmai (AE-16). Additionally he spent two years of shore duty in Sasebo, Japan.

He entered the Army in 1963 and after a three year tour in Germany, attended OCS (Officer Candidate School) upon his return from overseas. After OCS he served at Fort Polk as a basic training company executive officer and later as a company commander.

He attended rotor wing flight school and served in Viet Nam in 1969-1970 as an Operations Officer in a Combat Assault Helicopter Company, a gunship pilot, an operations officer at the battalion level and in the twilight of his tour was appointed the Battalion Command Post Forward, Commander.

His helicopter was shot down in August 1969 and he was severely wounded. After Viet Nam he served another tour in Germany and after, at Fort McPherson in East Point, where he retired from active duty in 1972.

After retirement, he served as a Senior Army Instructor for Atlanta Public Schools teaching Army JROTC for more than twenty years. He retired in 2002 from the school system having spent more that forty-two years in uniform.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Al Reid and the USS Tracer

2008-11-10T08:50:00.004-05:00

Commander Al Reid served during the WWII, Korea and Vietnam years. During his 30 year service Commander Reid served aboard the USS Tracer, a special ammunitions ship. More information concerning the USS Tracer (seen below) can be found here and here.

A tribute at the crew site (the first link given) states:

Capt. Reid (his rank during his service on the Tracer) has now attended three of the AGR Reunions. A record that few other former AGR skippers can match. His record, while Captain of the Tracer is hard to match too. During his time aboard the Tracer the ship won the "E" as the most efficient ship in the squadron two years in a row. The ship also won the Ney Award as the Outstanding General Mess Afloat over 775 other ships. His XO was the best too and even made Rear Admiral. You can't do much better than that... Capt Reid has said that his time aboard the Tracer was his best duty in the Navy. Most of us can look back after forty years and treasue the time when we served under Al Reid and Rod Flannery. Two greats in Tracer history.

You can see a picture and the whole text of the tribute here

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Height of the Cold War and the Vietnam Era

2008-11-08T22:10:00.014-05:00

The following church members are veterans from the 50s, 60s, and 70s covering the Cold War and Vietnam.

Jerry Johnson served in Vietnam.

Dale Pickens served in the 509th Engineer Company as a motor pool dispatcher. His rank was Specialist E-4. He commented that fortunately for him there were no big battles….only a few small ones.

James Millwood served in Vietnam.

Allen Wilson served in Vietnam with the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1974 in the 363rd Technical Air Command.

Douglas Cranford (1947-1980) served with the U.S. Air Force in communications where he was honored for dedication and dependability. Following his Vietnam service he worked with the Douglas County Sheriff’s office where he was awarded the Young Lawman of the Year award for 1978.

Arthur Henderson served in the U.S. Army from 1961-64. Due to his special computer skills he served his entire enlistment in El Paso, Texas.

Sam Griffin was in the U.S. Army from 1962-1964. He was stationed at Ft. Dix, New Jersey.

Billy Queen was in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1965. He was a mail clerk for a bit in Germany before serving as a colonel’s driver in Orleans, France. Following his Vietnam years Billy worked for Ford Motor Company where he retired with 30 years of service.

Jim West was in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1963. He spent 30 months as a tank commander along the Czech-German border during the height of the Cold War. Following his military service Mr. West spent 40 years as the owner of McClarty and West Sheet Metal Company.

Tommy Tart’s military service was spent in the Panama Canal Zone in 1958.

Paul Trew was stationed at Ft. Knox, Kentucky in 1963.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Korean Conflict

2008-11-08T18:07:00.007-05:00

The following FBCLS members served their country during the Korean Conflict. Each picture is followed by an identifying caption. You can click on the images to enlarge them.

Earl Allen was with the military from 1951 through 1983. During the Korean Conflict he was with the Air Force, and during the Vietnam War until his retirement he served with the Georgia Air National Guard as a civilian employee. Mr. Allen retired as a Senior Master Sargent (E-8).

Richard Young was in Korea from August, 1953 to June, 1954 in the 40th Infantry Division where he worked in the finance division. He was mainly in and around Chuchon and Chorwan, Korea.

Jim Brooks (1933-2007) served in the U.S. Army with the National Security Administration, a cryptologic intelligence agency of the United States government from 1952-1955. The NSA was created on November 4, 1952 and was responsible for the collection and analysis of foreign communications and foreign signals intelligence. In his capacity with the NSA, Mr. Brooks became fluent in the Persian language and worked with Project Bluebook and other top secret and classified projects.

Don Deal (1933-2002) served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Valley Forge. At one point Mr. Deal lost an eye during his service. Following his naval service Mr. Deal coached little league for over 40 years. The first carrier air strike of the Korean Conflict was launched from Valley Forge’s flight deck on July 3, 1950. You can find out more about the Valley Forge’s service during the Korean Conflict here.

Claude Foster served with the Seabees in the Philippines.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Recognizing Our Heroes

2008-11-08T16:58:00.008-05:00

Dwayne Duncan, U.S. Navy

Frank Smith spent 13 years in the U.S. Coast Guard on the ice breaker, Westwind, mainly along the New England coast.

David Schuber served in the U.S. Marines.

Charles Hulme (1931-2004) served in the U.S. Air Force. He spent his entire enlistment in Texas. After his service career he taught at Douglas County High School for many years.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: World War II Era....Navy Men

2008-11-08T16:23:00.011-05:00

The following pictures are FBCLS members or have a relative who is a member of the church. All of these men are World War II veterans. Captions follow each image, and images can be clicked to enlarged.

Pastor Marion Beaver served during WWII in the U.S. Navy Air Division as an electrician, first class in Miami and then later in the Philippines. In 1953, he became Senior Pastor at FBCLS and continues today serving our church as Minister to Seniors.

Harry Allgood served in the U.S. Navy from 1945-1948. For a time he was assigned to the USS Currituck, a seaplane tender. More on the Curritick can be found here and here.

In 1946, Mr. Allgood sailed with Admiral Richard Byrd to the South Pole. During that voyage Mr. Allgood spent 103 days without going ashore. This was Admiral Byrd’s fourth and final expedition we remember as Operation Highjump. It was the largest Antartic expedition to date. Besides the flagship Mount Olympus and the aircraft carrier Philippine Sea, there were thirteen other US Navy support ships, six helicopters, six flying boats, two seaplane tenders (including Mr. Allgood’s ship, the Currituck) and fifteen other aircraft.

Mr. Allgood was one of over 4,000 personnel involved in the operation. Strangely….the expedition was terminated six months early and no explanation was ever given.

Roland Garmon (1919-1988) served in the Pacific aboard the USS Leray Wilson, a destroyer escort, as a fireman, first class. Some of the history of the Wilson is detailed at this website including the events of January 10, 1945 when the ship experienced the full fury of the Japanese suicide attacks. Spotting an enemy two-engine bomber dead ahead about 25 feet off the water, the ship’s gunners unflinchingly maintained continuous and deadly gunfire, diverting the aircraft enough to save the ship. As the suicide plane splashed, its starboard wing crashed the ship’s port side, killing six gunners, seriously wounding seven more, and causing extensive damage. A family member of Mr. Garmon’s reported 42 crew members lost their lives in that attack. The USS Leray Wilson received four battle stars.

Seldon Green (1925-2007) served aboard the USS Zaniah pictured below. The Zaniah was responsible for delivering troops, goods, and equipment to locations in the war zone. At one point the Navy also enabled Zaniah to become a distilling ship with the capabilities of producing 80,000 gallons of fresh water. USS Zaniah received one battle star for her service, and her crew was eligible for the following medals: American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and the Navy Occupation Medal (with Asia Clasp). You can read more about Mr. Green’s ship here.

The USS Zaniah, Seldon Green's ship.

James Gore served aboard the USS Crater, a cargo ship. You can read a short history of the ship here. After a voyage to San Pedro, California, Crater was decommissioned at Pearl Harbor on June 25, 1946, and was transferred to the Maritime Commission the next day. Mr. Gore advises the USS Crater was bombed by the U.S. for nuclear research.

Julius (Jerry) F. Carrafa, Sr. (Antonette Mitchell’s father) served aboard a U.S. Army salvage ship known as the USAT Arthur C. Ely as a Tech Sargent (T/4).

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: World War II Era

2008-11-07T20:16:00.022-05:00

The following pictures are FBCLS members or have a relative who is a member of the church. All of these men are World War II veterans. Captions are underneath each image to identify the person.

J.D. Duren-While in Europe his feet froze and he spent many months in the hospital. Later he served as a cook for replacement soldiers.

B.C. Quinn (1925-2007)-Mr. Quinn served in the Merchant Marines. He was ordained as a deacon at Ben Hill Baptist and served as a deacon at FBCLS for many years. Mr. Quinn is remembered fondly as “the chewing gum man” since he handed out so many sticks of gum to children and young adults over the years.

Ed Redwine (deceased) served in the U.S. Army as a corporal. He was in the Philippines from 1945-1947.

Herman Schuber served in the Army Air Corp.

J.L. Clark was in the U.S. National Guard

LaFell Rakestraw (deceased)

James Leroy Burcham (deceased)

Fred Enterkin served in the U.S. Army Air Corp as a Staff Sargent, First Class. He advises he spent several months in Europe.

Thomas L. Richardson served in the U.S. Navy and provided a copy of his discharge paper

Bob Smythe served his country from 1943 to 1945 as a sargent in the Army Air Corp where he worked in airport supply.

Charles Bennett was in the U.S. Navy and spent most of his enlistment in Pensacola, Florida.

This is James Johnson Smith, father of Annie Joyner. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

J.D. Millwood
Walt Maynard served in the U.S. Navy

Clyde Hardy was a POW during World War II.

This is James Morgan….now deceased.

This is Ralph Brown. He served in Okinawa.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: World War I Era

2008-11-07T17:50:00.004-05:00

This is Sgt. Loy T. Chander. Mr. Chandler was born on October 19, 1898.

During World War I he served as a guard for German prisoners close to the front line.

Following the war Mr. Chandler worked with Southern Railway for 42 years.

Mr. Chandler passed away on February 3, 1994.

He was a founding member for First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs.

You can find out more about the founding of the church in the articles found here.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Mr. Chandler's image is the earliest veteran image currently maintained by the FBCLS Historical Committee.

Veterans Day: Brian Hall

2008-11-07T16:22:00.007-05:00

The image above was included in an article that appeared in the Douglas County Sentinel on Sunday, October 2, 2005 regarding FBCLS member Brian Hall. From the article:

Brian Hall, 30, was wounded September 30th by an IED blast to his Humvee. He received a head injury and shrapnel wounds to the face. He was medivaced to Landstuhl, Germany, and then sent to Water Reed in Washington, D.C.

Hall was a Combat Medic in the 108 Calvary, and served in the Army for four years. He is part of the Georgia Army National Guard 48th Brigade out of Ft. Stewart. Loved ones say he joined the military because he felt he should serve his country after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He also believed God had a purpose for him in Iraq as a medic, where he treated soldiers and civilians. He especially enjoyed helping the kids; often handing out candy and small toys along with his medical treatments.

Hall and his wife, Jessica, are members of Lithia Spring First Baptist Church. Jessica is a teacher at Turner Middle School, and they have an 8-month-old child.

You can click on the image of the article to see a larger version.

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Dotson Davis

2008-11-07T15:54:00.005-05:00

The article pictured to the left appeared in the Douglas County Sentinel on July 17, 2005 to honor FBCLS member Dotson Davis. The article states:

Joseph Dotson Davis is not one to talk about his days in the army fighting in World War II; for 60 years his stories of the war were kept from everyone including his family. But after years of urgent requests Davis sat down last year to write his story. And, on Father’s Day, he was honored by receiving the medals he had earned in the war. “I remember not be scared entering the military March 2, 1943 at Fort McClellan, Alabama because it was something I had to do,” he said.

In 1944, Davis fought in the Battle of the Bulge when he, along with other allied soldiers were captured by the Germans.

“My fellow troops in the 28th Infantry Reconnaissance and I were in a Belguim hotel and could see the Germans coming to get us in a whole bunch of tanks, we tried to run but they captured or killed the 28 troops,” he said.

He was held prisoner in the M. Stammlager XIIA war camp for three and a half months and lost 40 pounds from malnutrition.

“I was a prisoner of war for three and a half months and only fed potato soup and slept in a warehouse-like building on straw covered floors with body lice all around us,” he said.

Then one day while Davis was in a box cart being transported by the Germans to another camp, the train came to an abrupt halt while in a mountain tunnel.

“I knew immedately we were being rescued. We were liberated by an American Tank Division, after the bombed the train track crippling the German transportation system,” he said.

After being rescued Davis was immediately sent to the hospital to recover from malnutrition and frost bite.

“I had frost bitten toes, blue under some nails and lost nails on my toes,” he said. Now my feet ache after I have walked a short distance or stand for a long period of time.”

Davis remained in the Army a few more months before being dishonorably discharged in 1946.

After returning home without any military medals, Davis made a decision to remain mum about his Army adventures after marrying his wife Ruth and raising his two daughters, Beverly Reagin of Villa Rica and Marilyn Freeman of Douglasville.

“I was not proud to talk about it, it was an awful time,” he said.

Even now, Davis doesn’t like to go into detail about fighting in the war.

“If people ask questions, I will tell them but I normally don’t talk about it,” he said.

But after years of silence, Davis decided to tell his story within the last year at the urging of his nephew, Robert Davis, of Melbourne, Florida.

“He asked me to tell him the details of the war for several years now, so I finally decided to do it,” he said.
In May, the Davis family took a trip to Washington D.C. to see the World War II memorial. While there, his daughter Beverly inquired about obtaining her father’s medals from the war.

And finally after 60 years, Davis received more than six medals from the U.S. Army including the U.S. Purple Heart and a Prisoner of War medal. Ron Young, a former POW captured by the Iraq soldiers, made a special visit to the Davis home to present the medals.

“My daughter Beverly asked him to come to our families’ Father’s Day cookout, and Ron surprised me with the plaque,” he said.

“I was surprised to see Ron, and I did not know I had so many medals and pins,” he said.

Young made himself at home at the Davis’ home that day enjoying hamburgers and hotdogs and taking pictures with the family.

Ron told me that when he was a POW, the Iraqis only fed him burned rice, so when he came into the kitchen to eat I said, “You want some rice?” Ron laughed and said, “I am staying far away from the rice,” laughed Davis.

You can click on the newspaper articles to enlarge them....

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Veterans Day: Man Receives Medals 56 Years Later

2008-11-01T22:30:00.007-04:00

The Douglas County Sentinel article from July 4, 2001, that appears with this post (below) discusses FBCLS member Roy Webb. You can click on the article to get a closer view, however the text has been reproduced below:

Almost 55 years after he was discharged from the Army, a Douglas County resident has finally received the medals he received during and after WWII.

Thomas Roy Webb, 74, of Lithia Springs, served as a combat medic at the end of WW II and spent a year with the occupation forces in Japan. His military service includes four years in the Naval Air Reserve and three years in the Georgia Air National Guard.

A mix-up in his military records led the Army to believe Webb was not due any medals. According to Webb, recent efforts by Congressman Bob Barr, the American Legion, and the VFW led the government to finally get around to sending him the medals he justly deserved.

On Monday, a package arrived at Webb’s home containing the four medals. Included were the Army Good Conduct , Asiatic Pacific Campaign, Victory World War II, and Army of Occupation medals.

“I had a great surprise awaiting me when I went to my mailbox on July 2,” Webb said. “I had never received any of my service medals from WW II. I had given up hope of ever getting them.”

Webb, a graduate of Douglas County High School was drafted at the age of 18 on December 21, 1944. He was eventually assigned to the 98th Infantry Division, 323rd Engineering Brigade and on July 4, 1945 reached Hawaii.

Following the Japanese surrender, the division was sent to Japan where they landed, ready for combat, on September 27, 1945.

“It was rough. There was a typhoon in the bay,” Webb said. “We had live ammo. If they had started to shoot, we were prepared to meet it.

After spending a year as part of the occupational forces in Japan, Webb was transferred back to the United States and was discharged in October, 1946 as a Technician, Four Grade. He then had a 30-year career with International Harvester.

Webb and his wife Geraldine, live in Lithia Springs. He is a member of the First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs. They have three children, Diane, Randy, and Steven.

Webb said at first, he did not realize what was in the package he received in the mail. “When I opened the package, there were four boxes,” he said. “Then I took time to read what it said…Then I knew what I had—my service medals.”

“After carefully looking at them, I was shedding tears. This will be the best Fourth of July of my life.”

If you would like to see more posts regarding the veterans at FBCLS follow the link
here for a complete listing.

Wild Game Dinner: 2008

2008-11-01T22:24:00.003-04:00

The Wild Game Dinner, an annual event for FBCLS was held September 18th with Truett Cathy as guest speaker.

Click on the slideshow to see the images seperately. You will be taken to another web page...then click on "view images" in blue.

Second Anniversary

2008-10-28T09:32:00.002-04:00

A photocopy of the article detailed below is all that has been located, so far, regarding the second anniversary of the church. It is marked 1948 and it is not indicated if the article was published in the Sentinel or another local paper: The copy isn't in the best shape, but it says:

The Lithia Springs First Baptist Church will observe the second anniversary of its constitution on Sunday with an all-day service. Rev. J.A. Patterson, pastor, announced this week. Dr. L. Smith of the Park Avenue Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia will be the guest speaker for the afternoon service.

Constituted April 7, 1946 with 13 members the church has grown to a membership of 154. Meeting first in the Lithia Springs school the church now holds services in the basement of the proposed church plant. The basement unit was completed at a cost of $21,000.

The day's program will include the regular order of service in the morning with a basket lunch being served at the noon hour. The afternoon program will feature songs by the Park Avenue Quartet and the Grant Park Quartet, readings by Sara Maud Chandler and Joyce Patterson, and the address by Dr. Smith.

The church extends a cordial invitation to those in the community.

Stewardship Courses: 1953

2008-10-28T09:21:00.002-04:00

This article appeared in the Austell Enterprise on October 22, 1953:

A Stewardship Study Course for the Lithia Springs Baptist is announced by the church Training Union.

All age groups are included. The adult book, "Found Faithful" will be taught by Rev. James T. Manley, of the First Baptist Church of Chattahoochee. The young peoples book, "Good Stewards," will be taught by Rev. Howard Gordon, pastor of Crestview Church, Marietta. Rev. Howard McDowell, associate pastor and music director of Fair Oaks Baptist will teach the Intermediates "Partners With God."

The Juniors will be taught by Mrs. James T. Manley. Their book is "Talking Penny." The Primaries will study "Bonny Baptist and the Sunbeams," this will be taught by Mrs. L.T. Chandler, member of the local church.

The nursery will be open each evening.

Revival Time: 1953

2008-10-28T09:18:00.001-04:00

This article appeared in the Douglas Sentinel on Aug. 1, 1953:

A series of revival services will begin at the Lithia Springs Baptist Church next Sunday morning, August 2. The meeting will continue through August 14, with the pastor, Rev. Marion H. Beaver, bringing the messages.

Only evening services will be held on the week days. The song services will begin at 7:30 o’clock with the preaching service scheduled for 8 o’clock.

Raymond Berry, action choir director of the First Baptist Church in Marietta, will direct the the music for the series of meetings. Mr. Berry was formerly connected with the choir work for many years at the Jackson Hill Church, in Atlanta.

Wild Game Dinner: October, 2008

2008-10-27T16:03:00.003-04:00

The article pictured above appeared in the Wednesday, September 10, 2008 issue of The Douglas Neighbor.

You can click on the image for a larger view.

The article states:

In the past, First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs Men's Ministry has had little trouble in pulling in big names like former Atlanta Braves first baseman Sid Bream to serve as special guest speaker for its annual wild game dinner.

This year, with Chick-Fil-A founder Truett Cathy, the September 18th dinner might have its biggest name yet.

Member and organizer [David] Cooper said Cathy is a perfect speaker for his lifestyle and the purpose of the group.

"I can't think of anyone else who represents his company and his Biblical principles as well as Mr. Cathy," he said. "As a businessman myself I cannot think of anyone else I would rather pattern my company or business practices after."

The event, Cooper said, usually draws 500 to 600 guests and expects a similar number or greater this year.

The festivities begin, Cooper, said with displays of different sportsmen and taxidermists in the area and the Douglas County Fire Department will offer free blood pressure screenings.

Musical entertainment, he said, will be provided by the Cross Ties Band who perform bluegrass, gospel and other forms of traditional American music.

After dinner, Cooper said, the guests will move into the sanctuary for Cathy's message.

The dinner itself, Cooper said, will offer a variety of different meats.

"Every year we try to shake things up and this year is no different," he said. "The menu will consist of wild hog, buffalo, elk, and turkey, baked potato, slaw, and tea. I just don't know where you can get all of this for $10."

Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling (770) 948-2126 or coming to by the church. Tickets are on sale Monday through Thursday and at the 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday services.

The Passing of Mrs. Jewel Patterson

2008-10-27T15:46:00.010-04:00

On Sunday, October 12, 2008, members of FBC, Lithia Springs were saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs. Jewel R. Patterson. She was the wife of Pastor Arnold Patterson, the first minister of the church. Her funeral was at the church on Wednesday, Octobr 15, 2008.

Dr. Sam Jones, Mrs. Patterson’s grandson opened the service by remarking that it was appropriate her homegoing was on a Sunday. Mrs. Patterson’s son, Rev. Max Patterson refererenced Proverbs 31: 10-31 emphasizing Her children arise and call her blessed…., and Dorrie Jones, a granddaughter provided recollections from a grandchild’s vantage point. She included memories of the rather large Sunday dinners at her grandparent’s home and how Mrs. Patterson would always make the comment, “Let’s just throw a sheet over it. Someone might be hungry later.” Dorrie ended her comments with the observation that family and friends will live with Mrs. Patterson’s memory, but be inspired by her legacy.

Jerry Johnson, a member of FBC, Lithia Springs recalled the first time he met Mrs. Patterson during a night visitation. Mrs. Patterson suggested to him that church might actually be the best place to meet. Jerry commented that Mrs. Patterson was the epitome of a lady and was always dressed just so.

Rev. Mike Sinyard, education minister at FBC, Lithia Springs remembered he was five when Rev. Patterson and his wife were called away to another church, but made sure he sat in on the classes she taught twenty-four years later at the church. Rev. Sinyard called Mrs. Patterson a master teacher.

Rev. Marion Beaver, minister to seniors at FBC, Lithia Springs remembered one particular Women’s Day event at Olive Springs where he was the pastor at the time. Rev. Beaver asked Mrs. Patterson to speak at the event and stated it was obvious to him she spoke under the guidance of God and could interpret scripture with finese and translated it to our lives with ease. Rev. Beaver went on to say that if God indicated the ordination of women he would have been the first to lay hands on Mrs. Patterson.

Dr. Bob Whitmire, a former pastor of FBC, Lithia Springs stated Mrs. Patterson made a difference and was faithful to the end having given her life to the Lord. Dr. Whitmire went on to state Mrs. Patterson did have her challenges…..one being the death of Rev. Patterson. Dr. Whitmire remembered he was also challenged by the death of Rev. Patterson in that he was a young preacher at the time and needed Rev. Patterson’s counsel. He was grateful the Lord left him Mrs. Patterson.

Mrs. Betty Robertson and Dr. Dan DeFoor both performed solos and the entire congregation sang Amazing Grace.

Pastor Ordination: Rev. Gary Green

2008-10-11T16:48:00.005-04:00

This is the order of service for the ordination of Gary Green at FBCLS during the evening service on July 4, 1976.

Click on the image for a larger view...

Rev. Green also preached the message during the morning service that Sunday as evidenced by the church bulletin seen here.

Church Bulletin: July 4, 1976

2008-10-11T16:42:00.005-04:00

Gary Green delivered the message for the 8:30 a.m. service. This is notable since his ordination service was that evening during the evening service .

More information regarding his ordination can be seen here

Click on the image for a larger view....

Baseball Team: 1955

2008-10-11T16:33:00.002-04:00

The following image was provided by Ron Couch for scanning:

Click on the image for a larger version.

Deacons: 1953-1954

2008-10-11T16:30:00.002-04:00

Click on the image to enlarge it.

Church Conference: 1976

2008-10-09T20:42:00.002-04:00

The following is a sampling of the church conference minutes from 1976:

The Lithia Springs First Baptist Church met in conference on Wednesday evening, November 10th, 1976, with Marion H. Beaver presiding.

The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as read. The financial and organizational reports were accepted as information.

The Deacons recommended that the church provide two signs for the Concord Associational office on Washington Street in Austell. Also, that our committees of the church meet once a quarter. After a brief explanation by the Pastor, motion was made, seconded, and approved that these recommendations be approved.

The Nominating Committee recommended the election fo the following:
Cindy Vinson, Mission Friends Leader
Clara Winchester, GA Leader
Cheryl Kelley, Librarian
John and Cheryl Mitchell, 8 year Sunday School

Motion was made, seconded, and approved that these be elected to serve.

The Finance Committee recommended that $100.00 be allocated for Coach and Team Night to be held on December 5th. Motion was made, seconded, and approved that this be done.

The Property Committee recommended that the Lithia Springs chapter of Weight Watchers be given permission to use the Houston Street house one night per week. They will pay the church $5.00 per week for use of heat and lights.

Also, that the Cub Scouts be permitted to use the Youth III department for their meetings on Thursday nights at 6:00, with no charge. Motion was made, seconded, and approved that these recommendations be accepted.

Edna Gore, Chairman of the Finance Committee, presented the 1977 Proposed Budget. Copies of the proposed budget had been distributed along with recommendations from the Finance Committee, all to be voted on at a later date. One addition was made which was the Deacon’s Retreat with an amount of $150.00.

There being no further business, meeting was adjourned.

Deacons Emergency Committee: Leroy Burcham, Wendell Brown, Fred Enterkin, Claude Foster

Respectfully submitted
Cheryl Meeks, Church Clerk

1964: Royal Ambassador Basketball

2008-10-09T19:57:00.002-04:00

This image was donated for scanning by Ron Couch.

Click on the image to enlarge it.....

Church Conference: 1976

2008-10-09T19:50:00.002-04:00

The following is a sampling of church conference minutes from 1976:

The Lithia Springs First Baptist Church met in conference on August 4, 1976 with Marion H. Beaver, Pastor, presiding. The minutes of the July meeting were approved as read. The financial and organizational reports were accepted as information.

The following recommendations were made by the Deacons:
1. That the church involve ourselves in an Evangelistic program this Fall.
2. That the church appoint a long-range planning committee.
3. That a survey be made by the property and finance committee for the purchase of needed equipment for the office.
4. That Harry Smith be placed on the honorary list of deacons due to his health.

After explanation by the pastor of each recommendation, a motion was made and seconded for each recommendation and they were approved.

A motion was made that the church send a letter of appreciation and commendation to Mr. and Mrs. L.T. Chandler and Olivia for their years of service (approximately 30) on the Lord’s Supper Committee. Motion was seconded and approved.

The Nominating Committee recommended the election of the following:
Bill Stone-Church Training Director
Dot Callaway-Adult Activities Director
Lena Mae Wilson-RAF Director
Geraldine Bankston-Tape Ministry Director
Howell and Cecil Holt-Lord’s Supper Committee
J.P. Leavell-Preschool I, II, and III Secretary
Virginia Bryant-4 year Preschool Director
Edna Gore- 5 year Preschool Director
Mrs. Emma Lee Smith-8 year Children Director
Mrs. Alice Lewis- 9 year Children Director
Mrs. Edith Griffin- 10 year Children Director
Mrs. Irene Leavell- Adult II Director
Mr. Fred Enterkin-Adult III Director

Emergency Committee for August: Leroy Burcham, Walker King, Harry Harris, Frederick Woodruff

A report was made on the meeting regarding the closing of Lucille Street from Houston Street to Bankhead Highway because of the way it was written up in the public notices of Douglas County Sentinel, there was some opposition made and disposition was made by the commissioners at this time.

The pastor stated that a verbal agreement had been made with Mr. Alexander, Douglas County School Superintendent, that there would be no ball playing on Sunday night at the ball field behind Annette Winn School. There have been games played recently on this field on Sunday night. He also asked Mr. Alexander what the possibility might be of sellling this ball field land. Mr. Alexander said he would check it out.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted
Edna Gore fillling in for Cheryl Meeks, Clerk

Church Bulletin: September 26, 1962

2008-10-09T19:38:00.005-04:00

The following church bulletin was donated for scanning by church member, Ron Couch. The first page compares all of us to machines and from time to time we need to undergo a bit of inspection where God “can and will restore us”.

click on the images to enlarge them....

The second page is notable for the Couch family as their note of appreciation was included following the passing of Mrs. A.C. (Louise) Couch.

The third page contains Pastor Marion Beaver’s message regarding the Enlargement Campaign and how decisions made during that time would affect FBCLS in the future.

Finally, here is the back page of the bulletin.

Church Conference: 1976

2008-08-18T12:10:00.001-04:00

The following is a sampling of church conference minutes from 1976:

The Lithia Springs First Baptist Church met in conference on May 12, 1976 with Mr. Harry Harris, Chairman of the Board of Deacons presiding.

The minutes of the last meeting were approved as read. The financial and organizational reports were accepted as information.

Mr. Harris gave a report on the meeting that was held at the Commercial Bank building concerning sewage in the county.

Mr. Harris also reported that the ordination of Gary Green has been called for by the Union Band Baptist Church of Howardstown, Kentucky. Gary has requested that the ordination take place here in his home church, LSFBC, on July 4, 1976. Motion was made, seconded, and approved that Gary Green be ordained here at the church on July 4, 1976.

The Property Committee recommended tha the county be given a right-of-way on our east line for the extension of Winn Drive in exchange for Lucille Avenue on the west side of the building. Motion was made, seconded, and approved that this be granted.

The Nominating Committee recommended that Mr. Larry Palmer be elected to serve as Trustee to fill the vacancy left by the death of Mr. J.B. Williams. Motion was made, seconded, and approved.

The Financial Committee recommended that the following allocations be added to the 1976 budget:

Church Training Special Programs $300.00
Church Staff Study $500.00
Water $350.00

Motion was made, seconded, and approved that this money be allocated.

The Finance Committee recommended that $100.00 per month be put into a tax sheltered pension program for our pastor, Mariou H. Beaver. That the church take out an insurance policy providing disability income for the pastor, should become disabled due to illness or accident, at our annual premium of $254.72. Motion was made, seconded, and approved that this be done.

Deacon’s Emergency Committee: Harry Harris, Leroy Burcham, Tye Kent, Manford Miller

There being no further business, meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,
Cheryl Meeks, Church Clerk

An Unselfish Gesture...

2008-08-18T12:02:00.005-04:00

The image below is the cover shot from The Helping Hand, the newsletter from the Georgia Baptist Developmental Disabilities Ministry. This edition is from August, 2003.

A blurb was found inside regarding Dr. Marion Beaver (seen in the second image).

You can click on the images to see a closer view, however, the text regarding Dr. Beaver states:

When First Baptist Church of Lithia Springs honored Dr. Marion Beaver upon the 50th anniversary of his call as pastor, they wanted to take up a special offering to honor him. Dr. Beaver, who also served as pastor of Olive Springs Baptist Church in Marietta, now serves as associate pastor/senior adults at Lithia Springs First Baptist Church. Dr. Beaver asked that the special offering in his honor be used to establish a fund to benefit Georgia Baptist Developmental Disabilities Ministries because of his great love and concern for people with mental and physical handicaps. An excerpt from a song written for Dr. Beaver by Lynn Shaw Bailey also expressed the feelings of the DDM family: “…My good and faithful servant, you have served ME well indeed, for you’ve been about My business helping those who were in need…” Many thanks to Dr. Beaver for this unselfish and generous gift.

Stewardship Week: 1953

2008-08-18T11:46:00.002-04:00

You can click on the article in order to see a closer view of it.

Church Conference: 1976

2008-08-18T11:42:00.001-04:00

The following is a sampling of church conference minutes from 1976:

The Lithia Springs First Baptist Church met in conference on Wednesday, January 28, 1976 at 7:30 p.m. with Harry Harris, Chairman of the Board of Deacons presiding.

The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as read.

The financial and organizational reports were accepted as information.

The Deacons recommended that the Property and Personnel Committees look into the possibility of securing a full-time custodian for the church building and church grounds

Deacons Emergency Committee: J.Q. Mosley, Fred Mosley, B.C. Quinn, LaFell Rakestraw

Meeting adjourned,
Respectfully submitted: Janet Deal, Clerk

Working For Christ in Peru

2008-08-02T17:49:00.008-04:00

Early in June, 2008 two young men from FBCLS headed off to Lampa, Peru to live and work among the people there as missionaries.

The night before leaving for Peru Jorge Bello related, “I’ll be leaving at 9:45 to Peru. I’m broke, yet God has provided. My Spanish isn’t perfect, but God will give me the words. A lot of sacrifice….yet it’s no longer my life, but Christ living through me. Lots of fears….yet it doesn’t matter because God is in control.

The next day Jorge's fellow traveler, Austin Morris, said, “I’m in Miami right now and it’s now hitting me how far from home I’m going to be. I miss my girl and my family."

….and so began the travel blogs both young men completed as they worked among the people of Peru. Austin’s site, Austin in Peru can be found here. Chasing God, Jorge’s blog can be read here.

Another member of FBCLS, Drew Powell, joined Austin and Jorge during the last days of their mission trip.

Vacation Bible School, 2008

2008-08-02T17:15:00.002-04:00

If you want to see the images seperately click on the slideshow. You will be taken to another page. Look for the blue link on the left that says "view web album". Click the link and you will see each image seperately.

The Original Sanctuary

2008-08-02T17:00:00.009-04:00

This is the original sanctuary building that was destroyed by fire. There are a few major differences between this original structure and the rebuilt structure we can see today.

Do you know what they are?

First-today's older sanctuary building does not have the vent that you can see in the gable.

Second-the original building had windows on either side of the front door instead of additional doors.

Third....and this is the most major difference......the original sanctuary building had a foundation of Stone Mountain granite. Look around today and you will see the older sanctuary structure has an all brick foundation.

The image below shows the west side of the basement of the original structure where Sunday School was held for many months prior to the fire.

Below: the west side of the classroom level....taken in July, 1947

FBCLS Heritage

2008-08-02T16:45:00.005-04:00

If you click on the image you will get a closer view. The text states:

First Baptist Church of Lithia Springs was organized on April 7, 1946. The Rev. J.A. Patterson was elected the first pastor. The church met for a time in the present Annette Winn School, moving later to the basement of their first building.

The first sanctuary and educational building were dedicated on October 23, 1949. Tragedy struck just five days later as the building was totally destroyed by fire. Not willing to give up, the members moved the meetings back into the school building until a new sanctuary and a few educational rooms were built.

In November, 1952, Rev. Patterson resigned as pastor and in May, 1953, Dr. Marion Beaver was called to lead the congregation.

In 1955, a building fund campaign was launched and on April 27, 1958, the church dedicated two stories of the educational building.

In November, 1962, the church elected a Planning and Survey Committee to start a mission which was constituted on October 2, 1966, as Lithia Heights Baptist Church.

On April 7, 1968, a groundbreaking service was held as another building program got underway to construct a four story educational building. The annex was completed in July, 1970.

Dr. Marion Beaver resigned as pastor in November, 1978, after serving for more than twenty-five years. A Search Committee was elected and Dr. Robert L. Whitmire was called to begin his ministry [at FBCLS] in September, 1979

Building the New Sanctuary

2008-08-02T16:33:00.008-04:00

The new building program for constructing a new sanctuary began in 1983 on a rainy Sunday per the historical archives. Dr. Robert Whitmire introduces the plans to the congregation.

Mrs. Jewell Patterson, wife of Rev. Arnold Patterson, discussed the history of the church from 1946 through the early eighties.

Greg Pope, the 16-year-old son of Butch and Linda Pope, discussed the new building program and its impact on future generations.

These images are from a laminated presentation created by Vivian Cranford. The next two images show the excavation for the new sanctuary.

Do you remember the Scout Hut? Do you remember those trees?

A beautiful night scene of the completed sanctuary.

Whitmire Is Pastor At Lithia Baptist

2008-08-02T16:19:00.003-04:00

...This article from the September 6, 1979 issue of the Douglas County Seninel advises "Dr. Bob" would begin his pastorate on September 9th.

The article goes on to state:

Rev. Whitmire attended Forest Park High School and graduated from Shorter College in Rome with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Religion. He received his Master of Divinity degree in 1974 from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky. He is presently working on a Doctor of Ministry degree and will graduate after writing his thesis.

Rev. Whitmire has received several special honors. He was chosen for Who's Who Among Colleges and Universities in 1972; Eastern Star Religious Leadership Award, 1971-1975; President of the Student Senate and Vice President of Student Government at Shorter in 1971-1972 and received the American Bible Society Award in 1971.

Rev. Whitmire comes to First Baptist of Lithia Springs from the First Baptist Church of Union Point, Georgia. He is married to the former Roxann C. Castleberry of Forest Park, and they have two sons, ages two and four.

1953...An Article Regarding Rev. Beaver

2008-08-02T15:45:00.002-04:00

In a May-June, 1953 article in the Douglas County Sentinel Rev. Marion H. Beaver was introduced to the community-at-large. The article states:

A native of Marietta he received his bachelor of divinity degree from Southern Seminary in May. Mr. Beaver was ordained in 1947 and was pastor of the Milford Church in the Noonday Association before entering the seminary. He was pastor of the Petersburg, Kentucky church during his seminary days.

While at Milford he led the church to a full-time program with complete organization of denominational activities and was very active in associational work, especially in Training Union.

Jewell Patterson: Service, Family, and Fellowship

2008-08-02T14:56:00.019-04:00

Celebrating Pastor Marion Beaver's 80th birthday on November 29, 2002.

Standing before the congregation with Dr. Robert Whitmire.

Pastor Arnold Patterson and Jewell Patterson.

Jewell on a visit to West Palm Beach to visit her sister, Belle.

The Patterson home on Florence Drive.

Girls never really grow up. The above doll house was constructed by Arnold as a gift for Jewell.

Jewell with her brother Edgar and sisters Belle, Ethel, Lou, Millie and Evelyn.

Jewell's birthday celebrated by her Sunday School class.

Fleeing the ship with Dot Calloway, Bob Whitmire, and daugher Joyce.

Jewell and Cora Jones

The above invitation was issued for Mrs. Patterson's ten years of service as the Women's Missionary Union Director for the Concord Baptist Association on September 14, 1986.

Jewell Patterson speaking to the congregation during Groundbreaking Sunday for the Together We Build program in 1983. She spoke about the early days of the church from 1946 through the early eighties

This image shows Jewell Patterson with her mother and siblings....spouses are standing and siblings are seated.

From left to right: Edgar and Esther Renfroe, Mary Renfroe, Ethel Parker and Johnny Renfroe, Belle and George Souter, Millie and Ed Demby, Jewell and Arnold Patterson, Lou and Henry Dewell, Evelyn and Raymond Floyd

More on the Pattersons...

2008-08-02T14:48:00.002-04:00

These images are taken from laminated presentations prepared by Vivian Cranford and Rheba Doris Williams to honor the Patterson family.

This slideshow focuses on the children and grandchildren of the Pattersons:

November 13, 1979 was the 50th wedding anniversary of the Pattersons:

If you click on the slideshow you will be taken to another page. Look for the blue link on the left that says "view web album". Click on it and you can see each picture seperately.

Peru Mission Project

2008-07-25T14:16:00.003-04:00

In an article published in the January, 2008 issue of The Christian Index, FBCLS members Dale Pickens and Hugh Grimmer were spotlighted for their work with our Peru mission project.

The article begins by stating: It was less than a year after meeting international missionaries Mike and Kathy Weaver that Dale Pickens found himself ministering in Peru. Now, he and other members of First Baptist Lithia Springs regularly travel there to train others in spreading the gospel.

The article continues: First Baptist’s accelerated pace in establishing it’s relationship with the South American country is typical of REAP (Rapid Entry Advanced Plan), a church planting strategy of the International Mission Board. The objective of this strategy is to see indigenous, self-sufficient church planting churches established among a particular micro-people group or population segment.

In 2005, six members of First Baptist visited villages outside of Lampa. In Huayta Central village, Hugh Grimmer gathered some young children and a few adults and began telling Bible stories. After 10 or 15 minutes, Grimmer asked if they had any questions. One man asked, “How can we have a church built here?”

“The church is not a building, but a group of people in Bible study,” Grimmer explained. The man confirmed that was what he wanted. The group was ready to leave so Grimmer told the man he would return to share about the church later.

For Hugh Grimmer the highlight of his fifth trip was the baptism of Edgardo Mendez. (Refer to image above) “We have been praying for this for a couple of years,” says Grimmer.

“These people are receptive to the gospel. They need help in establishing Bible studies and churches. I believe the Journeymen can be a great help in establishing Bible studies in the villages and helping lead the Lampa Community Church. But we need more stateside churches to become involved.”

The entire Christian Index article can be found here.

Singing Christmas Carols

2008-07-25T11:49:00.003-04:00

From left to right: Linda Patterson Jones, Cynthia Burcham, and Regina Millwood (Schuber)

Church Founding: Tenth Anniversary

2008-07-25T11:44:00.004-04:00

April, 1956........First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs is 10 years old. The above image shows Jewell and Arnold Patterson along with Marion and Ruth Beaver celebrating.

The Patterson Family

2008-07-25T11:22:00.012-04:00

Rev. J. Arnold Patterson and his bride, Jewell Patterson:

Max, Joyce, Jewell, Arnold and Linda:

Jewell whipping up something good in the kitchen:

Jewell and Arnold with Joyce and Max:

A young Max Arnold:

Arnold and Jewell:

Joyce, Jewell, Max, Linda, Sam and Alma:

Jewell with her children and grandchildren:

Jewell and nine beautiful grandchildren:

Groundbreaking: Educational Building

2008-07-25T11:12:00.004-04:00

Founding Church members who were present at the groundbreaking for the educational building in July, 1970.

I.C. Williams, Vassie Williams, Mildred Winn, Pat Chandler, Mira Sinyard, Cora Ralls, Alene Ralls Wallace, Loy Chandler, Jr, and Loy Chandler, Sr.

Groundbreaking: 1946

2008-07-25T11:06:00.005-04:00

This is an image of the church founders at the groundbreaking for the first church building (the one that was later destroyed by fire).

From left to right: Mary Gore, Ethel Hodges, Vassie Williams, John and Estelle Rice, Pat Chandler, Jewell Patterson, Amy Copeland, G.W. Southard, Rev. Arnold Patterson, John Cauble, Rev. Pat Johnson, and John Brown.

Rebuilt Sanctuary

2008-07-25T11:04:00.003-04:00

This is an image of the rebuilt sanctuary taken in August, 1952.

Arnold Patterson: In Memoriam

2008-07-25T10:54:00.003-04:00

Pastor Patterson passed away on December 6, 1980. Dr. Robert Whitmire remembered the first pastor of First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs by publishing the following in the Midweek Guide for December 10, 1980:

From my heart to you....."Do you not know that a prince and a great man has fallen this day," was the response of King David on hearing of his great general's death. Likewise our response is the same on the passing of former pastor and former member of our church, J. Arnold Patterson. A great man of God has laid aside his earthly mantle in exchange for an incorruptible crown. Our church grieves with his dear wife, Jewell, and the family in this time of loss.

Pastor Patterson served First Baptist Lithia Springs from April 7, 1946 until November, 1952.

Arnold Patterson

2008-07-25T10:45:00.005-04:00

The following acrostic poem was written by Ileane Hilley in honor of Arnold Patterson, pastor of First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs (1946-1952).

Always we shall remember how Arnold served mankind through the years.

Rewarded with a lovely wife, Jewell, as a helpmate and very dear

Now when the Lord blessed Arnold and Jewell with three wonderful children they were delighted.

Of course, much happiness came as their children and grandchildren visited them day and night.
Leaving his worldly home his Savior to meet inside Heaven’s gate

Dear Arnold, we are thankful for your heart given to leadership on earth teaching us the WORD so we will not be late.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. Psalm 116:15

Arnold, we PRAISE THE LORD for your service and especially your smiles

Telling others the good news about JESUS across the miles.

Thanking the Lord for the opportunities given to you to bless others day by day.

Especially grateful for thy guidance thru the Holy Spirit all along the way

Step by step Lord we PRAISE THY NAME as you uphold Jewell, thou precious soul

Over and over WE PRAISE THY NAME for letting out paths cross with this faithful servant who had great faith and heaven as his goal.

None considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. Isaiah 57:1b

Church Picnic

2008-07-20T22:27:00.008-04:00

The above images are taken from a church picnic. No date was given with the pictures, however, evidence suggests the 1970s.

The location is similar to Deer Lick Park. Who are the people in these pictures?

High Attendance for "M" Night

2008-07-20T22:22:00.003-04:00

Click on the image for a closer view.

Brothers Win Sword Drill and Speakers Tournament

2008-07-20T22:19:00.003-04:00

Click on the image to see a closer view.

Concord Association Youth Night

2008-07-20T22:15:00.002-04:00

No date was given for this clipping.

Letters of Dismission: 1946

2008-07-20T21:59:00.007-04:00

The following images are copies of the letters of dismission for the Chandlers. Notice this one contains the words "brother" and "sister" L.T. Chandler. The middle images only refers to "brother" Chandler. The final image is the letter for Ina Myra and Sara Maude Chandler.

These particular letters of dismission are further discussed here.

First Baptising: 1946

2008-07-08T16:33:00.011-04:00

These images are from the very first baptising service at Coursey Lake in 1946.

Groundbreaking: 1946

2008-07-08T16:29:00.003-04:00

Amy Copeland and Edna Epps during the groundbreaking for the first building.

Children's Sunday School: 1957

2008-07-08T16:22:00.003-04:00

From left to right: Marion Beaver, Hilma McGouirk, Vic Williams, Gwyn Copeland, John Warren, Kenneth Morris, Patricia Frisbee, Unknown, Sonya Wilson, Cindy Couch, ___Wallace, Loy Chandler Sr., Mr. Wallace

Deacons: 1981

2008-07-08T16:12:00.002-04:00

Butch Pope, Ray Sinyard, H.V. Branan, L.T. Chandler, J.T. Gamel, Manford Miller, L.P. Prince, Fred Mozley, Ed Demby, Lafell Rakestraw, Howell Holt, B.C. Quinn, ___ King, Claude Foster

Hilton Green, Donald Slate, James Gore, Charles Jones, Fred Entrekin, George Cloud, Harry Harris, Fred Hays, Seldon Green, Walt Maynard, Windell Brown, Carl Bolson,

Jack Hulsey, Robert Hanson, Quillan Mozley

Gene Vinyard

Watermelon, Watermelon!

2008-07-08T15:01:00.004-04:00

These images are from a Sunday School social or from Vacation Bible School per the notation on the back. No date is given.

More Early Sunday School Groups

2008-07-08T14:41:00.002-04:00

The following pictures represent various Sunday School groups. No dates are given on the pictures. Captions are given just as they are on the original images.

If you want to see the images without the slideshow click on it a couple of times. You will be taken to another page. Look for the blue link on the left side that will say "view web album".

Outdoor Services: 1972-1973

2008-07-08T14:22:00.007-04:00

During a sanctuary renovation during 1972-1973 some worship services were held in the parking lot.

Vacation Bible School: 1946

2008-07-08T13:47:00.010-04:00

These images are from the very first Vacation Bible School held at First Baptist Church, Lithia Springs held during the week of July 16-21, 1946.

The picture below has the following notation: Jewell Patterson and Vassie Williams, teachers.

The image below is the Beginners Class taught by Cora Ralls and Amy Copeland.

The image below is the Primary Department for VBS. The workers are identified as Mrs. Jewel Brown, Mrs. Virginia Cochran, Mrs. Paul Akins, and Mrs. Ethel Landrum.

The image below are the workers for Vacation Bible School including Hilma McGouirk, Pat Chandler, Cora Ralls, Vassie Williams, Clara Rainwater, Jewell Morris, Jewell Patterson, Virginia Cochran, Jewell Patterson, Ethel Landrum, Arnold Patterson, Amy Copeland.

The image below is the Intermediate group.

Sunday School: Children's Department

2008-07-08T13:42:00.002-04:00

An early image of the Children's Department. The children are not identified and there is no date. However, a notation on the back of the image denotes Loy Chandler, Sr. (Sunday School Superintendent) and teachers....Eva Roberts and Lucy Fischel.

Patterson's 50th Wedding Anniversary

2008-07-08T13:35:00.003-04:00

Handwritten on the above article from The Douglas Neighbor is the date 1974. You can click on the image to get a closer view.

Ladies Sunday School Classes

2008-07-08T13:26:00.004-04:00

The above image is the Bethany Sunday School class. The following people are identified: Alice Dubard (teacher), Annie Dee Cogburn, Susie Earwood, Andrilla Camp, Gracie Davenport, Ruth Beaver, Alice Dubard, Ruby Mozley, Jilbe Childers, and Billie Lee.

An early Sunday School class....no date given. Mrs. Vassie Williams, teacher. Also pictured are Cheryl Williams (Smith), Pam Kerley, Paula Rakestraw, Joyce Brown, Patsy Sinyard, Conchita Ogle, and Mary Ann Collins.

No dates are given for these pictures.

Early Sunday School

2008-07-08T13:18:00.004-04:00

The pictures in this slideshow are showing Sunday School in progress. The captions presented here match the ones on the back of each original print. Several people are not identified. Also there is no year with these pictures, but the time period appears to be early 50s.

If you want to see the images seperate and to view the captions better click on the slideshow. You will be taken to another page. Look for the link on the left side that says view web album. Click the link.

Sword Drill

2008-07-08T13:00:00.002-04:00

These are the Sword Drillers (Bible Drill) for FBCLS for 1955.

From left to right.....Shirley Williams (Cook), unknown, Donald Cauble, unknown, Benny Leavell

Valentine Banquet, 1956

2008-06-28T13:35:00.003-04:00

In 1956, the church held a Valentine Banquet with the theme "P.S. I love you." The speaker for the evening was Rev. James Manley and the pianist was Eunice Rice.

If you want to see the images individually click on the slideshow. You will be taken to another page. Look for the blue link on the left with the words "view album." Click there and each images can be clicked to view individually.

Under Construction: Whitmire Activities Center

2008-06-28T12:49:00.004-04:00

If you want to view the images individually click on the slideshow. You will be taken to another page where you will see the words "view album" in blue. Click there and you can see each image. Click on each image for a closer view.

FBCLS: 41st Anniversary

2008-06-28T11:05:00.010-04:00

The above article appeared in the Douglas County Sentinel on Thursday, March 19, 1987. Highlights from the article include:

*On the last Sunday in March FBCLS’s congregation was able to hold services in the new 800-seat sanctuary and were looking forward to the 41st anniversary on April 7th.

*The article mentions the membership at the time stood at 1,600 and due to their pledges of $1.2 million the new sanctuary had been been. It took a period of three years to building the 30,000 foot complex which also holds church offices, a choir complex, and several Sunday School classrooms.

*Dr. Robert Whitmire, pastor of FBCLS at the time the article was published stated, “It became apparent that First Baptist Church was destined to building something that could not be explained in human terms. This church is a testimony that could only be built through the Holy Spirit.”

*The article mentions the Building Together With Love campaign that funded the building program actually began in 1946 when a few Lithia Springs residents led by the Holy Spirit began to build a downtown church.

*The original land for the church was donated by Glenn Florence. The article states that rocks were hauled onto the site from as far away as Lithonia, Georgia for the foundation and basement level.

*In order to provide a proper building for worship ladies of the church during the latter part of the 1940s pledged not buy new clothes, but to give their money instead to the new sanctuary. The article goes on to state there was a little bit of a scandal when one lady dared to show up at church with a new collar on her dress….all was forgiven when it was realized she had simply remade an old dress..

*The article recounts the tragic fire of 1949 that destroyed the first sanctuary everyone had worked so hard to build. By expanding their dream, enduring more sacrifices, and through a donation of additional land from Glen Florence the sanctuary was finally rebuilt.

*Ray and Bessie Mae Sinyard are also pictured with the Sentinel article. They were the first couple to be married by FBCLS pastor Arnold Patterson and at the time the article was published Mr. Sinyard was the only living deacon of the first seven to lead the church.

First Baseball Team: 1956

2008-06-28T10:59:00.005-04:00

This image was provided by Ron Couch for scanning.

Back row (left to right): Terry Gamel, Thomas Norton, Ronny Rainwater, Phillip Tinsley, Larry Butler, Ronald Couch

Third row (left to right): J.P. Leavell, Roy Frank Jordan

Second row (left to right): Wayne Vickery, Bennie Leavell, Bill Kerley, Bob Landrum, Ralph Jackson, Jones Bennett, Home Shackleford

First row (left to right): Jack Sinyard, Gilbert Rainwater, David Camp, Jack McNair, Tracy Smith, Mikey Shackleford

Click on the image for a larger view...

Steeple Raising: 1985

2008-06-28T10:28:00.006-04:00

When the steeple was finally raised over the new sanctuary building Dr. Robert (Dr. Bob) Whitmire had the honor of placing the cross atop the structure.

The History of First Baptist Church of Lithia Springs: the 1970s

2008-06-26T21:51:00.004-04:00

This is part four of a church history written by Irene Leavell and Vivian Cranford, members of FBCLS. Part one can be found here. Part two can be found here. Part three can be found here.

The church occupied the new four-story annex in July of 1970. This includes two adult departments, two Junior departments, library, modern nursery with all facilities, activities area and kitchen. Pianos were bought for all departments, shelving for the library, new equipment for the kitchen. For the first time in the history of the church, there was adequate room. Supplies and equipment are still short in some departments, but are being added as fast as time and money permit.

The first kindergarten program was begun in the fall of 1970 under the able supervision of Mrs. Edna Gore and Mrs. Evelyn Harris. The program was a success from the very beginning and was self-sustaining. Another very successful ministry was begun in August of 1970. this is the Day Care Program under the direction of Mrs. Virginia Bryant. This program is for the children of working mothers from the age of three months to twelve years. This program provides planned recreation and learning experiences and includes hot, nourishing meals. It is providing a much needed service for the members and the community as a whole.

In October, 1971, the church called Rev. Harold Lefler as associate minister. He shares in the total ministry of the church, but has particular responsibility in the areas of music and youth.

There are now 934 members of this great church. It has not been easy, but the people, under the leadership of their two great pastors, have been “laborers together with God.” The future holds great promise and much hard work. There is a new building to fill to capacity and new programs to be launched.

Probably the greatest challenge is the mission to be built on property the church already owns on the Hiram-Lithia Road.

Lithia Springs First Baptist Church has been serving the cause of Christ at home and abroad for the past twenty-five years, and under God’s guidance, will continue to do so.

The History of First Baptist Church of Lithia Springs: the 1960s

2008-06-26T21:47:00.002-04:00

This is part three of a chuch history written by Irene Leavell and Vivian Cranford, members of FBCLS. Part one can be found here. Part two can be found here.

In 1961, the auditorim was redecorated and air-conditioned. Also, a $25,000 pastorium was built. Mr. A.B. Craven supervised the work without cost. Many people contributed labor and materials. It is located on Cooper Street. A dedication service was held at the Sunday Morning Worship hour.

In November, 1962, the church elected a planning and survey committee to start a mission. Mr. J.P. Leavell was chairman of this committee. In February, 1963, the church acquired twelve acres for this purpose from “Mom and Dad” Long.

In January, 1965, F.M. Davis was called to be the Associate Pastor of the First Baptist Church and to direct the work of a new mission. On May 12, 1965, the first service was held with 300 people present. Rev. Wallace H. Preast was the first pastor of the church. On October 2, 1966, the mission was constituted as the Lithia Heights Baptist Church. In 1967, this church began a kindergarten ministry and has continued to grow in all its areas of work. At this time it has a new pastor, the Rev. Bernard Weaver. (Rev. Donald Phillips was pastor 1969-1970).

On April 7, 1968, twenty-two years from the beginning of the church, a Ground Breaking Service was held to dramatize a new building program. A new educational annex was planned to cost $200,000 which would double the value and space of the present building. Two of the original twelve members were now deceased, one was living on the west coast, but nine of the original and many other charter members attended. The church at this time had a membership of 842, a Sunday School enrollment of 788 and a Training Union with 350 members.

In 1968, the church purchased a home on Creel Drive for the Minister of Education and Music. Mr. J.W. Winchester and his famly moved here from Indiana to assume this position in the church. He made a marvelous contribution to the church, but is now [at the time of this writing] serving as Minister of Education at Mableton First Baptist Church and has recently been ordained as a minister.