One of the county’s newer churches, Southwest Baptist Church, founded in 1998, has undergone a recent expansion of their congregation, going from 20 to 30 loyal church-goers to nearly a hundred, all thanks to the church’s new pastor, Stanley Phillips.
Elected as the new pastor after former pastor Jim Nalls retired, Stanley has rejuvenated this sleepy old church and brought life back into its halls. Visitors are welcome at Sunday school bright an early at 9:30 a.m., and the congregation gathers for inspirational church services at 10:30 a.m. Greeted with smiles and open arms, visitors and guests immediately feel welcome here among this growing Baptist Church family.
Southwest Baptist’s congregation is not the only part of the Church that enjoyed an expansion under the new leadership of Stanley Phillips. Southwest Baptist’s youth group, newly dubbed as The Refuge, has come under new leadership as well.
Under Chad, The Refuge has begun participating in fundraisers and even taking trips outside of the church.
The Refugees, the members of this expanding youth program, meet at 6 p.m. every Wednesday night. The kids are treated to a hot, home or church-cooked meal before going in to their class. Afterward is fun-filled Christian Fellowship with friends.
Southwest Baptist Church is filled with opportunities for change and growth, and the church’s home ministry is no better example of this.
Celebrate Recovery is a Ministry based in Southwest Baptist and its mission is to help addicts conquer their addictions and lead a better life in Christ.
Besides this Ministry, there are several opportunities to minister, including a very special choir.
Throughout the year, these talented ladies, led by Kim Ford, work very hard to witness to the people through their heartfelt performances, especially around Easter and Christmas holidays. This program has even brought to light some talented local artists, like Patrice Parker.