How about a church that moved not once but twice? I’m talking about Mount Lebanon Baptist Church. It stands as a testament to faith and community.
Mount Lebanon Baptist Church has a rich history. It reflects the enduring spirit of its congregation. The church’s story involves multiple relocations. Each move marked a new chapter in its journey.
Originally, a group of Baptists gathered in 1886. They met at Thorn Hill Schoolhouse. This location was near the current site. They aimed to establish a Baptist church. Bethany Church extended a helping hand. Sixteen charter members formed the foundation. From this humble start, Mount Lebanon Baptist Church was richly blessed. It stood as a true and faithful church for 138 years.
In November 1885, Martha S. and William B. Horn donated land. They deeded it for fifteen dollars. It was for Missionary Baptists to erect a house of worship. This happened almost a year before Mount Lebanon was organized.
The present Mount Lebanon Baptist Church building is the fourth. Each building served as a house of worship. The first building was erected around 1891. Records show a dedication service on the fourth Sunday in September. In May 1935, the church decided to build a new church on the same site. Services were held at a nearby location during construction. Mount Lebanon moved back in June 1936.
By September 1966, another new building was needed. Again, it was built at the same site. Services were held at the old Boyce Schoolhouse. A member had purchased it. The new building completed in spring 1967. It was a modern brick building with a full basement. It also had Sunday School rooms.
As Mount Lebanon Baptist Church grew, a new sanctuary became necessary. In late 1993, a building committee was formed. It was to investigate building a new sanctuary. In 1997, the church approved a proposal. Construction began in early 1998. The new building connected to the 1967 building. The first service was held on December 20, 1998.
Over the past 138 years, Mount Lebanon Baptist Church has been a home. It welcomed over five hundred men, women, boys, and girls. Today, the church has 170 members. Mount Lebanon has developed a history of mission and missionary support.
God has blessed the pastors who have served. They led the people in the way they should go. Mount Lebanon has been served by 28 pastors. These men preached the word in truth and in the fear of God.
Mount Lebanon Baptist Church has truly been blessed. We are thankful for all the souls He has saved. We are grateful for everyone that has served this church. They held on to the truth of God. This has enabled us to worship in this community today. Psalms 127:1 reminds us, “Except the LORD build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” Truly, the Lord has built this house. He did so with the saving of souls.