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Writing a brief history of Lakewood Baptist Church requires a long look backward and brings
heartfelt gratitude toward people who over thirty years ago, organized this church with little
more than faith, vision, dedication, and determination. The foundation of their new venture with
God was based not on things but on beliefs, convictions, devotion, commitment, and
self-sacrifice.
A few earnest, faithful Baptists living in the India Hook area, organized with the help of
Northside Baptist Church, the India Hook Baptist Mission in January of 1962.
In May of that year, the mission called Reverend Gerald Rhyne as their first pastor. The first
place of worship was in a vacant store building located on Mt. Gallant Road.
In February of 1964, six acres of land was purchased and ground-breaking ceremonies were held
on
June 25, 1965. Over two hundred members and friends dedicated the new church building on January
2, 1966.
On September 29, 1968 Lakewood Baptist Mission became Lakewood Baptist Church. Between that
vacant store building and today's beautiful, spacious facility lies a long,colorful history. It
is not so much a story of buildings and budgets as a story of people-Baptist people, strong in
teaching and doctrine, active in support of their local church, their denomination, and its
mission in the world.
"Charter members" can reminisce at great length about many things: the first worship service,
the
first pastor, "Operation Big Switch", the first building, the many additions and renovations that
have resulted in the beautiful house of God, the church's enthusiastic and continual support of
missions, and the people-always the faithful, Christian people.
The virtues which prompted the founding of a church have remained strong through the years,
and
the message of Jesus Christ has been proclaimed for over three decades. Examining the past
enables present church members to see themselves as recipients of a lasting legacy and to face
with confidence their mission of sharing God's word and His love
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