North Greenwood Baptist Church celebrated 50 years of community service and evangelical outreach at a special service Sunday.
"I think milestones are important for families, organizations and churches. They serve as a point of remembrance, not of where you've been, but where you're going," said Dr. Jim Phillips, senior pastor.
Dr. Jim Futral, guest speaker, said in his message that the anniversary was a time for celebration, but it also served as a connection with the past.
Futral, executive director of the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board, related the story of the first Baptists to arrive in Mississippi in 1798.
"From a small group of seven in Coles Creek, led by Richard Curtis Jr., the Baptist work in Mississippi grew," he said.
"Those folk are gone now, and we are on the front lines. This church in Greenwood is just as important for future generations to gain the vision."
North Greenwood Baptist Church started as the vision of Dr. J.H. Kyzar, former pastor of First Baptist Church of Greenwood.
Following the purchase of land in 1951, construction on a facility was completed in 1955. The church's first service was held May 22, 1955, with its first pastor W.G. Watson officiating.
"Back then in Greenwood there was only one bridge across the river. So everyone coming from south Greenwood would get backed up and wind up late for Sunday School," said Carolyn Kimbrough, one of 362 original members.
She continued, "God has poured out His blessing on this church and multiplied our numbers. He has given us a vision for tomorrow that North Greenwood Baptist Church can and will fulfill."
Proclamations recognizing the 50th anniversary were issued from Greenwood Mayor Harry Smith and Gov. Haley Barbour. Barbour said, "North Greenwood Baptist Church is a cornerstone of the Greenwood spiritual community, and these celebrations are richly deserved."
Over the years, the church has completed several projects including the addition of an educational wing and the expansion of the fellowship hall. Currently under construction is a family life center which will include facilities for preschool and a choir suite. Phillips hopes to have the building ready by Spring 2006.
Phillips is the fifth pastor of the church, which now has 1,531 members.
"I think our church has always had a good contribution to the community. We have members in all aspects of the community," said Bob Hatzfeld, a 25-year member and an associate pastor.
"Only eternity will tell what impact our church had on the community. More than anything, I want those that come behind us to remember our faithfulness," Phillips said.
