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BRACEVILLE -- "Honoring Those Who Paved the Way" is the theme for the 100th anniversary of the First Baptist Church of Braceville, 1399 Cedar St. NW.
Pastor Fred Gilbert said faith, love and sacrifice have made it possible for the church to mark its centennial.
He said this year the church celebrates God's faithfulness to First Baptist Church of Braceville with a reflection on 100 years of ministry.
"Through many dangers, toils and snares, God has brought us a mighty long way," Gilbert said, encouraging the members of the church to continue moving forward.
Gilbert said celebrations help to mark the milestones and remember the places where God has been faithful to the church's body of believers.
Luona Body, one of the organizers of the anniversary dinner held at Aulizio's this summer, said a history of the church dates back to the 1920s.
The church was formed in July 1923 with 11 members meeting at what was known as the "Red Barn."
The first church edifice was built in 1925 by volunteers from the Braceville community. That building served the congregation and community for 49 years before it was demolished in September 1974.
Church members said the groundbreaking for the current building was in September 1974 with funds coming from personal donations and support from community activities, such as a walk-a-thon and fashion shows.
The church cornerstone was laid in August 1979.
Church officials said over the years many improvements have been made including new study rooms, new offices, a handicapped-accessible ramp and a new pastor's study. A piano and organ also were purchased.
The church has had 10 ministers from the first -- the Rev. Claudius Blunt Sr. -- to the current pastor, the Rev. Fred Gilbert, who was chosen in 2020 to replace the Rev. Orneil Heller who left in 2019.