LISTOWEL – Perseverance. Hope. Faith. Vision. Simple words perhaps to describe an act of faith so many years ago. Could the men and women who formed First (Listowel) Baptist Church so long ago have foreseen their church today?
What began as an act of faith in 1886 has persevered for 135 years. And, this September 2021, Listowel Baptist Church celebrates not only its 135th anniversary, but 20 years since it moved to its current location on Line 86 on the west edge of Listowel.
The way we gather for ‘church’ today looks much different than it did 20 years ago when we moved to Line 86. The building may look the same but the people, the ministries, the services have changed. Our mission, to grow in our faith in our Creator and Saviour and to share the love of Jesus in acts of kindness and compassion, has not changed.
Although COVID-19 restrictions made planning and holding a garage sale difficult this year, Listowel Baptist Church – on the third attempt – completed its large indoor community garage sale over the Labour Day weekend. Many volunteered their help to make it happen, as the sale raised $16,892.30. Proceeds will be split between the Listowel Memorial Hospital Foundation and Salvation Army Family Services. Each worthy organization will receive a cheque for $8,446.15. (Contributed photo)
COVID-19 has taught us how to come together for worship, both in person and online. We have learned how to continue with PA Fun Days and Summer Fun Days for our ministry to children and parents. Where once the annual garage sale helped send children and youth to camp, now it supports initiatives both locally and worldwide.
Locally, for our hospital, the Salvation Army Food Bank and community programs. Worldwide, by supporting at-risk children and youth in Bolivia. Friday night badminton and games. Souper Sundays, Ladies Craft Nights and other activities are all waiting to begin again when it is safe to do so.
How will we celebrate our 135th/20th anniversary this September? Only God knows for sure! On Sept. 26 we plan to meet for worship and praise, taking time to give thanks for the past and praying for the future. We trust that God has an awesome plan for our church. Whatever this fall or the years ahead may bring, we stand firm in our faith, just like those church founders stood firm so many years ago. Today, and in the days ahead, we would do well to imitate the faith of those who have gone before us.
Feel free to check us out any time on listowelbaptist.org, YouTube and Facebook for services and events. We look forward to meeting you!
