In 1967 a Bible study in a London home sparked a movement. That humble beginning blossomed into Grace Baptist Church. It all started with Elvin and Joyce King opening their doors on Hawthorne Avenue. The Swordbearers a student ministry from Cedarville College fueled the flame. They held street meetings. Five families and others joined. Rev Earl Umbaugh a state missionary guided them.
Soon weekly Bible studies filled various homes. The first Sunday service was May 14 1967. It was held in the John Gibboney Building. The group quickly took over both floors. Visiting pastors deacons and missionaries filled the pulpit. Students and professors from Cedarville College helped. Neighboring churches gave financial support. They also donated furnishings.
David W Morris became the church’s pastor in August 1967. He was ordained in 1968. The same year Grace Baptist Church was officially recognized. It became part of the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches and the Ohio Association of Regular Baptist Churches.
Big plans were made in 1968. A new building was needed. Ralph and Martha Davin generously helped the church buy land on North Madison Road. Construction started that August. The new building opened in January 1969. The first service in their own building was January 25 1969. Dedication services followed on May 11 1969.
The church grew. Improvements followed. A Conn organ was added in 1971. New pews and pulpit furniture arrived in 1972. Stanley Johnson improved the parking lot. In 1976 classrooms a kitchenette and air conditioning were added. An airlock entrance was built in 1984.
Pastor Morris served for over twenty years. He resigned in 1987. Dr Floyd Elmore served as interim pastor. Dwain A Hill became pastor in 1989. He still serves Grace Baptist Church. The parking lot was expanded in 1989. New hymnals and pew Bibles were added in 1991. New carpeting came in 1991. The Davins’ wills ensured the church was debt-free for its 25th anniversary in 1992.
Awana Clubs for children ran from 1992 to 2003. It was a Wednesday evening program. It featured scripture memory games and devotionals. The church saw many guest speakers and musicians. The sound system was updated. A new roof and landscaping were added. An evangelism booth at the county fair appeared. A pavilion provided shelter.
A mission trip to Zambia happened in 1999. Pastor Hill Jim Young and Jesse Hill went. They supported Jim and Rachel Chambers’ ministry. In 2000 Grace Baptist Church distributed Jesus videos. The women’s group made bracelets for a gospel outreach at the Winter Olympics. In 2001 Pastor Morris passed away. A drinking fountain and a laptop were added. A kids summer boot camp was held in 2005. In 2006 major redecorating happened. The interior was painted new carpet was laid and a new furnace was installed.
Grace Baptist Church continues its mission. Wednesday night prayer meetings are a mainstay. Sunday school has evolved into a family Bible study. The church has supported a food cupboard and a benevolent fund. They sing old and new hymns focusing on teaching and praising God.
Grace Baptist Church’s story is one of faith growth and community. It shows perseverance dedication and a commitment to sharing the Gospel. From a small Bible study to a thriving church Grace Baptist Church’s legacy continues to inspire.