For 100 years the Dewar First Baptist Church has been turning lives around.
That century of service to the community is going to be celebrated Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 6 and 7 featuring several former pastors. All former members are being invited to attend.
old first baptistThe church started in 1916. "A lot of things have taken place to get us to this point," pastor Ryan Wells said. "There have been 37 pastors over the years and Wells said he expects several of them as well as former Sunday school leaders and music directors to be on hand.
In 1937 the church moved to the rock building on North Broadway that served as the center for worship until 1996. "Most of the folks in our service today considered that home," the pastor said. The church was successful in drawing more people to worship and outgrew its 60-year-old building.
The move into the new house of worship between South Maple and Cedar streets was a group affair. Around 200 current and past members made the symbolic move by walking to the new church. "About 150 folks were waiting at the new building to greet them," Wells said with a smile. The new sanctuary has room for some 450 worshippers.new first baptist
Growth has continued for the church.
In 1999 a Christian Life Center and gymnasium was built. That was followed in 2012 with a 9,000-square-foot youth building. It has a full-sized kitchen as well as shower facility.
The 100 year celebration will start Saturday night with an ice cream social followed by music and special service.
Sunday morning at 9 a.m. a special hour of prayer will be held followed by the centennial service.
Special music featuring Frank McManus, Chris Sweet, Mark Phillips and Donna Fields will be given.
Former pastor Jack Vance will deliver the sermon that morning.
A noon luncheon will be held then the afternoon will see a video presentation as well as Wells giving a vision for the future.
We are looking forward to more work here at Dewar First Baptist," said Wells. "We have another 100 years to go."
He invited all former members as well as pastors and church members from neighboring churches to be a part of the celebration.
The saturday evening service as well as Sunday celebration will also be streamed live by thehenryettan.com.

Click HERE to watch the service.