Dating back to 1840, Greenwood Community Baptist Church has a long and interesting history. This church began with prayer meetings. These meetings occurred in the home of Kate Austin in the Greenwood Community.
Frank Austin shared information about the early church buildings. Initially, meetings took place in homes. Later, they moved to a log building. This building was south of the current church location. The Nazarene and Baptist congregations shared these buildings in those early years.
In 1918, the Baptist group constructed a building of boards and batten. It measured about 40 x 60 feet. A divider ran through the middle of the house. It stopped just before the pulpit. A raised platform with benches joined the pulpit. This area was known as the “Amen Corner.” The building also housed an organ.
Several ministers served Greenwood Community Baptist Church. Some early ministers included William Myers and E.G. Robbins. Others were Bro. Howell and William Car. Later pastors included Bro. Kerr and Bro. Pickleseimer. Bro. F.A. Judd also served.
By the early 1950s, the church needed more space. Because of its location in the middle of a cemetery expansion was impossible. Bro. Caldwell and church members dug a basement for additional classrooms.
In 1953, under Bro. Raymond Patterson’s leadership a new brick building began construction over the basement. The interior was finished in 1954. It featured beautiful ten-inch wide paneling and pine pews. Bro. Sam McCord oversaw the installation.
Land across the road became available. The church quickly purchased it. On March 26, 1983, they held a groundbreaking ceremony. Members and friends worked hard to complete extra classrooms. They also built a pastor’s study, office, library, kitchen, and fellowship hall. In 1989, the building was named Greenwood Southern Baptist Church Annex. This dedication occurred just before the church’s sesquicentennial celebration.
Today, Greenwood Community Baptist Church continues to serve its community. It stands as a testament to faith, perseverance, and community spirit. The church has adapted and grown throughout the years. It remains a beacon of hope and fellowship for all. This long history reflects the church’s deep roots and commitment to its members.