Advertisement

But First Baptist Church of Davison has attained that feat.

The church has existed since the Civil War and will celebrate its milestone the rest of this year. The church was chartered as Free Will Baptist Church Feb. 26, 1858, with 10 families attending services that were held every two weeks.

A kick off celebration will begin at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 24 with a 150-year commemorative service. The service will feature a slide show with pictures from the past, special music, testimonials, and a reflective message.

Following the commemorative service, there will be a potluck church social luncheon. The community, past members, and current members are invited to attend. As was done 150 years ago, the public is invited to bring a dish to share and join members for food and fellowship.

Pastor James Unger said the First Baptist Church will also take part in two upcoming community parades with a float commemorating 150 years and wrap-up in the fall with a community wide open house. Dates will be announced.

A special church family quilt is also being created. The quilt will feature the names of past and current members and be permanently displayed at the church.

"I think God has had his hand in blessing on this church," Unger said.

Today, the church plays host to two morning services each week at 10:30 a.m., one contemporary and one traditional. "We've committed to the 21st century style and it's an intergenerational church," he said. "We run two services on Sunday: We have one that's led by a praise team in our family center that's contemporary. The other service is blended in the sanctuary that's music based on the piano, organ, and choir."

The church also hosts a wide variety of ministry services and activities including men and women's Bible study groups, kids Adventure Club program, Faithbooking, and Thursday night youth services. Most recently, the church started a new ministry called Angel Food, which provides food to families.

This is a transformative time for First Baptist Church and the Davison Community, Unger said. Throughout the 150 years there have been many changes to the church, but the primary focus has remained the same .

"For 150 years, the First Baptist Church of Davison has sought to serve Christ and His Kingdom in greater Davison," Unger said. "The 150th anniversary celebrates the past as we move forward to the future with this same mission in new ways."

Linda Jerome has been a member of the First Baptist Church of Davison since 1978, an employee since 1989, and secretary since 1994. "I think it was other members who were committed to Christ that made sure our church kept keeping on," she said. "We have several outreach ministries and something for everyone. It's awesome. We've always been known as a friendly church."

Meat will be provided at the potluck social luncheon. RSVP attendance by calling (810) 653-6550.

For more information on the upcoming activities or to assist with the celebration, contact the church office at (810) 653-6550 or by e-mail at fbcdavison@fbcdavison.org.

Jennifer Decker can be reached at 664-0811, Ext. 8125 or jennifer.decker@lapeergroup.com