The First Baptist Church of Barnard celebrated its 125th Anniversary Sunday, October 9 with a Homecoming Day. The church was organized in December, 1886. The congregation of eight members built the original church in 1901. The present building was dedicated in 1960.
The celebration began at 10 a.m. with coffee and cinnamon rolls made by Lenora Howe. At 11:00, the church sanctuary was filled for the Morning Worship service. Pastor Ollie Odle, Sr., Bedford, Iowa, brought the morning message. Mr. Odle was First Baptist’s pastor from 1956-1962 and led the church in the construction of the new building. During the morning service, Jerry Seabaugh, area Minister from the American Baptist Churches of the Central Region, presented Pastor Dennis Finch with a certificate to acknowledge the anniversary. Thayla Webb Adams, Gainesville, Florida, was the returning member who had traveled the greatest distance. The church’s oldest living member, Ione Hart, 91, was unable to attend because of health reasons. Ouida Griffeth, Barnard, claimed the title of oldest present member, having been baptized in 1935.
A catered meal was enjoyed by over 100 members and friends at the Community Building. Desserts were furnished by the church ladies. After a time of re-acquaintance and visiting, everyone was back at the church for an afternoon of Music and Memories. Former members, present members, and friends from the Methodist Church across the street supplied musical numbers and memories which were much enjoyed by all.
After a light evening meal, the Gospel group, Brand New Day, from Hutchinson performed new and old time music to bring the day to an inspirational close.
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