Olive Branch Church

In 1869, a beacon of hope was lit in the heart of a community. This beacon was the Olive Branch Church. It emerged from humble beginnings, from prayer meetings held in homes. The faithful gathered in the homes of James Bridgett, Joseph Moore, and Charles Moore, men who would later become the church’s first deacons. As the congregation grew, they moved to an old log schoolhouse. This schoolhouse stood on land partially owned by Sister Martha Gaskins and Brother Scott Hailstock. Eventually, Brother Hailstock, along with Brother Burke and Brother John Grigsby, purchased an acre of land. With financial support from dedicated members like James Bridgett, Charles Moore, Robert Tolliver, William Gaskins and Scott Hailstock, the first Olive Branch Church building was erected. The church has seen many spiritual leaders guide its flock. In 1966, Reverend Harold C. Hunter became pastor. Under his leadership, Olive Branch Church experienced significant growth. Membership increased. Services expanded from two to four Sundays a month. The church achieved a major milestone by paying off its mortgage and becoming debt-free. Improvements were made to the building, including new carpeting, a telephone, stained glass windows, and a new well. In 1979, Rev. George N. Hawkes began his tenure. He brought back weekly Bible study and prayer services. The church flourished spiritually. Many new members joined through baptism and Christian experiences. Material growth continued under Rev. Hawkes. A baptismal pool was installed, along with a microphone and speaker system, a new furnace, dining room tables, a freezer, and a copier. The cemetery grounds were expanded, and a new utility building was constructed. Then, in March 1999, Reverend Dr. George W. Farmer Jr. took the helm. The Olive Branch Church continued its trajectory of spiritual growth and increased attendance in Sunday School and Bible study classes. Dr. Farmer emphasized Christian education and training, especially for the youth. The church also focused on community outreach, helping those in need both within and outside the church community. The church purchased a bus to transport members who could not get to services on their own. A support staff was hired to ensure smooth administration. The Olive Branch Church has stood for over a century and a half as a testament to the power of faith, community, and service.