FAIRVIEW, Ala. – Antioch Missionary Baptist Church will celebrate its 100-year anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 15, at 9:45 a.m., marking a century of faith, community and service. The centennial event will feature a historical display of photos and documents, as well as a potluck lunch, with attendees encouraged to bring their favorite side dish or dessert. All are welcome to join in the celebration.
Founded in 1924 with the purchase of a wood-frame church built in 1915, Antioch began its century-long journey with its first service in April of that year. In its early days, the church was purchased by a group of Baptists after the original Christian denomination disbanded, and it has been an anchor for the local community ever since.
Antioch has seen many changes throughout its century-long history. In 1947, the original wood-frame building was replaced with a new structure, complete with a basement, auditorium and classrooms. Over the years, the church has continued to modernize, adding indoor restrooms in 1958 and air conditioning in 1966. Extensive renovations in 2018 brought the sanctuary up to date with refinished hardwood floors, new pews, updated lighting, and fresh paint, ensuring that Antioch remains a welcoming place of worship for generations to come.
David Hadley, Centennial Committee member and current Sunday School superintendent, emphasized the significance of the event, drawing a connection to biblical celebrations of the past.
“Celebrations are nothing new. In the Old Testament, there were many celebrations and feasts the LORD directed His people to observe,” Hadley shared. “These feasts were times God instructed His people to stop their normal day-to-day lives and come together as a group of people. The Jewish people were to remember and praise God for His goodness and mercy.”
He continued, “We want to remember how loving and amazing God has been to the people and community of Antioch over the last 100 years. During the good times and the bad, the highs and the lows, God has always been faithful.”
Hadley also encouraged the congregation to look forward, highlighting the church’s continued commitment to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. “We not only look back, but we also look forward. Just as our brothers and sisters in Christ ran their race and helped us be who we are today, we prepare the next generation,” he added.
This upcoming Sunday, Sept. 15, Antioch Missionary Baptist Church will gather its congregation and community members to remember its 100 years of history, celebrate a legacy that has persisted and look ahead to its future.
Antioch Missionary Baptist Church is located at 827 County Road 1659, Cullman, AL.
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