Powell Baptist Church

Nestled in Pumpkin Center, just outside Harlem, Georgia, sits Powell Baptist Church. It’s a place where the echoes of over 120 years of faith and community resonate. Powell Baptist Church was founded in 1893. The church was named to honor Frank H. Powell. Some of the earliest members included familiar names like Powell, Rogers, Atkinson, and Hamilton. The church’s original sanctuary was dedicated in 1899. Imagine the scene, horse-drawn carriages bringing families to worship in the newly built space. Decades later, in 1964, an Educational Building was added, further solidifying Powell Baptist’s commitment to nurturing its congregation. The current sanctuary, completed in 1975, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the church. A few years later, the old sanctuary, which had served as a fellowship hall, was demolished to make way for a new Educational Fellowship Hall. This new hall, dedicated in 1990, was named for “Papa” John Boyce Milford. The church’s mission is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Powell Baptist Church encourages its members to share their faith within the community and provides mission opportunities locally and abroad. From Sunday School classes at 9:15 am followed by the main worship service at 10:30 am, to evening services and midweek prayer meetings, Powell Baptist offers numerous opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. The church’s history intertwines with the larger Baptist community in Georgia. Initially part of the Hephzibah Association, Powell Baptist Church later joined in the formation of the Kilpatrick Association in 1914. Powell Baptist Church has seen significant growth throughout its history. From a membership of 78 in 1915, it expanded to over 400 members by the mid-1990s. Many pastors have guided Powell Baptist Church over the years, each contributing to the church’s rich tapestry of faith and service. From the Reverend W.J. Rogers, the first pastor, to Nick Bates, the current pastor, the leadership of Powell Baptist reflects a continuous thread of dedication and spiritual guidance.