BAKER — Yellow River Baptist Church is celebrating 176 years in ministry.
The faithful will commemorate the occasion with worship, food and fellowship beginning 11 a.m. June 12 at 7799 Yellow River Baptist Church Road, Baker. (The road turns off Highway 2, just west of the Yellow River Bridge). Bring one or more covered dishes if you come.
On Sunday, June 14, 1840, a handful of residents along the upper Yellow River — about 3 miles south of the Alabama line — gathered with two representatives of the Bethlehem Baptist Association from Alabama and constituted the first Baptist church in the two early counties of Walton and Escambia.
Over the years, the church has included the families Baggett, Barrow, Blackman, Campbell, Carver, Clary, Cobb, Collingsworth, Cook, Danelly, Gartman, Gaskins, George, Hart, Helms, Howell, King, Madden, Milligan, Peaden, Richbourg, Senterfitt, Stegall, Steele, Stewart and Wilkinson.
As for the 2016 celebration, “This year is especially important to members, as this past year has been spent in digitizing the church’s early records and producing a book of early membership,” an event spokesperson said.
“A historical display with photos will be available, as will more information on purchase of the upcoming book.”
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Yellow River Baptist Church anniversary celebration is June 12