11/27/11- Messenger12/4/11- Messenger

Phil began his ministry at FBC Baxley in October 2011. He and his wife Jan have a daughter and a son, Catherine and Andrew.A graduate of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (1985) and Georgia Southern College (1976), Phil previously served FBC Acree, FBC Leesburg, FUMC Richmond Hill, Morningside Baptist Church, and Pinecrest Baptist Church.

I am married to Vicki; father of Sarah and Rachel. As of the first of October I am serving as Pastor of First Baptist Church of Baxley, GA.I graduated from Mercer University (1977) and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (1980).I am a former Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lakeland, Lakeland GA, Second Baptist Church of Rockmart, Rockmart, GA. Cedar Valley Baptist Church, Montezuma, GA, Radium Springs Baptist Church, Albany, GA, and Rosemont Heights Baptist Church, Waynesboro, GA.

Laura began her service in January of 2009. She has been a resident of Appling County since 1976. She is married to Robert Bruce. They have been married for sixteen years. They have two daughters: Kaitlin and Jesse Riane. Her hobbies are reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Courageous Movie Showing@ 6pm

Community Wide Youth Worship@ Fine Arts Center at ACHS@ 6pm

New Years Service6pm in Fellowship Hall

29 25 15 Upcoming EventsPreschool and ChildrenFebruary 27 - Children's Worship Service (5:30 p.m.)March 8 - Family Movie Night (7:00 p.m.) Admission a food item for the food pantry. Movie TBAApril 20 - Children's Easter Egg Hunt and Celebration (5:30 p.m.) May 31-June 3 Music Day Camp June 5 - Music Day Camp performance (5:30 p.m.)July 17 - 20 Vacation Bible School (5:30 to 8:30 p.m.)

Upcoming EventSeptember:23rd- Night at the Leds 7pmOctober:6th- Youth outreach night 6pm9th- Youth Renewal Service guest speaker Rev. Billy Gill11th- Wild Adventures 9am26th- Youth Missions Fundraiser Dinner November:12th- Food Pantry Scavenger Hunt24th- Thanksgiving Day meal ministryDecember:9th-11th- WTB

Jason began his service with First Baptist Church in September of 2008. He is married to Ryan Ledbetter, and they have two sons, Knox and Nolan. Jason enjoys spending time with his family and friends. His hobbies include participating in sporting activities, watching college football, and giving pitching and hitting lessons to kids and youth of all ages.

Preschool Ministries“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’“Touching Little Hearts for God”Jesus called for the children and said to his disciples, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” What better way to teach out children about God’s love than by allowing them to experience it for themselves. It begins in the nursery where our children are cared for and loved by our Nursery Staff, then onto our toddler 2 & 3 year old classes, and our 4 & 5 year old classes. We offer Sunday School, Team Kids, Vacation Bible School, and various other fellowships and celebrations through the year. click here for upcoming events/click here for pics



Claire first began her service in 1965 and has served in a full-time position since 1985. She teaches piano lessons and is married to Kenneth Tanner, a retired Georgia Power employee. They have two children: Jeff Tanner and Tamela Folsom; three grandsons and two granddaughters: Payne Ivie, Pierce & Abbigayle Tanner, Tanner & Anna Kate Folsom. Claire’s hobbies are working in the yards and collecting depression era glassware.

Claire first began her service in 1965 and has served in a full-time position since 1985. She teaches piano lessons and is married to Kenneth Tanner, a retired Georgia Power employee. They have two children: Jeff Tanner and Tamela Folsom, three grandsons and two granddaughters: Payne Ivie, Pierce and Abbigayle Tanner; and Tanner and Anna Kate Folsom. Claire’s hobbies are working in the yards and collecting depression era glassware.

Gail grew up in First Baptist Church. She began part-time service at twelve years old and served periodically from then through her college years. She began full-time service in the early 1970’s. Gail teaches mathematics and physics at the high school and was married to the late Jerry Carter, a retired high school English teacher. They have one son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy & Emily Carter.

Elesa began her service in June of 1990. She has been a resident of Appling County since 1973. Her family includes three children: Christy, Joshua, and Caleb. Her hobbies are bird watching, enjoying nature, and collecting Peanuts memorabilia. She is an avid Wal-Mart shopper and enjoys spending time with her family.

Walk Through Bethlehem If you"ve never been, I"d love to tell you all about Walk Through Bethlehem! It is so much more than just a live nativity. This is our fourth year of WTB, and each year is becoming more detailed as we learn more from experience. We"ve had several thousand people attend over the three nights in each of the past three years; we expect the same this year as well. We have constructed a city of Bethlehem, complete with shops, homes, hotels, synagogue, a barn yard (complete with live animals) and, of course, a stable. The city has shop keepers, towns people, soldiers, etc., that interact with the visitors that pass through in assigned groups. Each person receives a census card, an Israeli coin to pay their taxes with, the opportunity to sample some of the merchandise and even some great entertainment while they wait for their tour guide to take them through the city. A word about the cast and crew: this group of dedicated adults and children number well over 300 in all, most of which are dressed in authentic costumes. Because of the large crowds that we"ve experienced in the past, I recommend that you come early - Of the three nights, I think that Sunday is usually the busiest. The time is 6-9 p.m. on Dec 9th. The time is 5-9pm on the Dec. 10th & 11th. It"s an awesome experience for a youth group or a group of any age! Hope to see you there!click here for picsscript

C.H.A.O.T.I.C. YOUTHC.H.A.O.T.I.C. YOUTH is a group of students from 6th-12th grades who are on fire for God and seeking to do His will. C.H.A.O.T.I.C. itself stands for Christians Helping And Outreaching To In need Commnities. Our Youth Verse is Isaiah 6:8:" 8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"We in C.H.A.O.T.I.C. pray that as you go through this crazy and wild thing called life that you will turn to God to be your leader and guide. If you do not know Christ as your personal savior our prayer is that you will come and see what God can do for you. We also pray that you will accept Him so we all can live our lives for Him. Lets all come together to Love God, Follow God, and make God the ultimate ruler in our lives. God loves you and we do too! hope to see you soon! God Bless!click here for upcoming events/click here for pics

Contact Us Address: 15 North Main StreetBaxley, Georgia 31513 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 346Baxley, Georgia 31515 Phone Number: 912-367-2738 Fax Number: 912-367-2732 Email: bxlyfbc@bellsouth.netDIRECTIONS

Our Missions & MinistriesCollege and Young Professionals MinistryMission StatementTo impact the lives of college students and young professionals with the awesome grace of God that leads to a life of faith through Jesus Christ, and to equip them to handle their transition from high school and live for God in their transition from high school to adulthood. Sunday Schedule * 9:30 AM – Sunday School – Is a time where college age and young professionals meet to study God’s Word and grow closer to God though knowledge of His word.Wednesday Schedule * 6:30 PM – Prayer Meeting – This is time where the entire adult congregation, which includes college and young professionals, meets to devote time to the prayer needs and concerns of the congregation and community.Opportunities for MinistryThe college and young professionals are encouraged to be involved in our other Mission and Ministry Opportunities.J.O.Y. GroupThe J.O.Y. Group (Just Older Youth) is designed for persons 55 years of age and older. Its purpose is to foster fellowship, promote outreach, and provide opportunities for service. Guests as well as church members are encouraged to be a part of this group and to participate in any and all of its activities and ministries.The J.O.Y. Group meets monthly for a time of inspiration and fellowship. Our meetings are held the last Thursday of each month. There is a meal and a program of interest or entertainment. Members of the J.O.Y. Group have other opportunities for participation in trips and special events. Additionally, they seek to involve themselves in ministry, as a group and as individuals.click here for picsUpcoming Meetings and Programs:Thursday, October 28 (6:30 pm) - J.O.Y. Group MeetingThursday, December 02 (6:30 pm) - J.O.Y. Group Thanksgiving/Christmas Music MinistryThe music ministry consists of a “graded choir” program, which provides opportunities for musical learning and musical expression for all ages. The primary goal of each group is to equip its members to lead in worship and witness through music. * The Sanctuary Choir – Wednesdays at 7:30 PM – This performing group for adults rehearses weekly and performs each Sunday morning. They also provide music on special occasions as well as presenting two musical productions each year. Benevolence MinistryA work of the church through our Community Missions Committee that provides groceries, lodging and other assistance to families who are in need.Thanksgiving Day MinistryEach year our church prepares and provides lunch on Thanksgiving Day for more than 150 people in our community. People who are alone for one reason or another or who are not physically able to prepare their own meal. We also provide meals to those people who are required to work in public service roles on Thanksgiving Day. We see this as an opportunity to visit, pray with, and encourage those less fortunate in our community, and to express our thanksgiving to God by sharing with others.Christmas in Action(Home Repair Project)Each year, on a designated day in April, our church in cooperation with other community volunteers work with a common vision to repair the homes of disadvantaged persons of Appling County.50+ Women’s Prayer Circle(Women 50 and older)A missions group of ladies that meets on the 1st Tuesday of every month (10:30 AM) for a time of prayer, fellowship, and interesting programs on various topics. They are supporters of the Share-A-Bear Ministry. A ministry that collects and distributes teddy bears and other stuffed animals to be used by various community agencies to give to children in times of crisis.Julia Jarman CircleA missions group of senior adult ladies that meet on the 3rd Monday of every month (12:00 PM) at the Pavilion dining area for a luncheon, time of prayer and fellowship, and a program or guest speaker on missions.Radio MinistryOur Radio Ministry Team works in conjunction with WBYZ RADIO FM 94.5 here in Baxley so our 9:30 AM service can be heard over the radio at 10:30 AM. If you are traveling within a 100 mile radius, or know someone who is homebound that would be encouraged by hearing our time of worship, tune us in. Our Radio Ministry Team also provides acoustical / sound support for all church functions including choir performances, weddings, etc.First Baptist Church supports numerous other missions and missionaries in Asia, Peru, Thailand, and the United States. For more information on how you can support these contact our church office 912-367-2738.Media Library HOURS:Sunday Mornings: 9:30-10:00 AM & 12:00-12:10 PMSunday Evenings: 5:00-5:50 PM & 7:00-7:10 PM.Wednesday Evenings: 6:00-7:30 PMAll other times by appointment. Contact Library Director through the Church office at 912-367-2738Mission StatementTo collect and circulate materials that promote awareness and understanding of Biblical knowledge, Christian spiritual growth, information about Baptist groups and other denominations, the development of Christianity and church history, the knowledge of God’s creation, and a Judeo-Christian value system. To assist in every facet of church life and to minister to the congregation and the community at large.The Media Ministry Team welcomes all who attend First Baptist Church and members of Baxley-Appling County community. For checkout and acquisition policies contact Carole Edgy, Media Library Director.The Stanley Brobston CollectionThe Media Library proudly announces books and papers concerning the cultural origin and development of Southern gospel music, Dr. Stanley H. Brobston has recently donated the books, papers, recordings, and photographs used to research his doctoral dissertation.ServicesResources for teachers and personal Bible study Information about collecting and preserving materials for church history. Sermon tapes Limited research

Statement of Basic BeliefsWe affirm the Holy Bible as the inspired word of God and the basis of our beliefs. This church subscribes to the doctrinal statement of “The Baptist Faith and Message” as adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention in 1963. We voluntarily band ourselves together as a body of baptized believers in Jesus Christ personally committed to sharing the good news of salvation to lost mankind. The ordinances of the church are Believer's Baptism and the Lord's Supper.

Children's Ministries“Teaching Young Lives to touch the world for Christ”Jeremiah 29:11 teaches that God has a good plan for our lives. The Goal of our Children’s Ministry at First Baptist Church is to help our children to know and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We seek to guide them as they search out God’s plan for their lives. This is done through Sunday School, Team Kids, Vacation Bible School, Music Day Camp, and on going missions and outreach our children are involved in.click here for upcoming events/click here for pics

Our History In 1880 First Baptist Church of Baxley, Georgia was organized with the following charter members: Mr. & Mrs. J. Isham Carter, Mr. & Mrs. John W. Carter, Mr. T.H. Carter, Mr. W.J. Carter, Mr. & Mrs. John Hamilton, Mr. & Mrs. George Herndon, Mr. & Mrs. H.M. Herndon, Mr. & Mrs. William C. Parker, Mr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Parker, and Mr. W.H. Parker. This was ten years after the Southern Railroad completed this section of Georgia when Baxley was known as Station No. 7, and five years after Baxley became the county seat of Appling County. Also, in 1880 the first Sunday School in Baxley was organized in a small school building with W.C. Carter, three women, and twelve children as members. The first church building for First Baptist was erected on the north end of North Main Street at the time of the organization of the church. The congregation grew rapidly and it was soon necessary to build a larger church. It was said that the noise of a grist mill across the street from the church interfered with the Saturday services so an alternate location was selected for the new building. In 1890 the church's present site was purchased by William C. Parker and Co., who "in consideration of the love they have for Christ and His Kingdom on earth" gave the land to the deacons of the church. The second church building was completed free of all indebtedness and dedicated on March 12, 1893. The first youth organization at First Baptist was started in 1898 as B.Y.P.U. (Baptist Young People's Union). In 1902 the Convention minutes listed Baxley Baptist with a Ladies Missionary Society. The church had preaching one Sunday a month until 1904 when Rev. Jessie M. Gilmore became pastor and services were held two Sundays each month. In 1911 Rev. E.F. Rice was made full time pastor holding services every Sunday. On November 29, 1925 under the leadership and inspiration of Rev. Zach Everett Barron, the church voted unanimously to build a new church plant. The old building was moved to a lot behind the courthouse and used for services while the new building was under construction. Ground breaking ceremonies were held on November 21, 1926. The building was completed and opened for worship on Sunday, July 10, 1927. Rev. Barron preached the dedicatory sermon on May 7, 1939. It was said on that day by members of the church "that every brick in the building was laid in the prayers of Zach Barron". The auditoriums were air conditioned in 1955. In 1957, under the leadership of L. Bert Joyner, a two story brick educational building was constructed. Air conditioning was added in 1961. The pipe organ was installed in the sanctuary in 1962. The church purchased additional properties surrounding the church as membership continued to grow and additional space was necessary to enlarge its present facilities and for parking. For many years the two story Dunn House was used for Sunday School classes.On November 12, 1989 the church initiated a Forward in Faith program to raise funds to begin construction of a ground level sanctuary. A reassesment committee determined the priority of a new fellowship hall in 1992. The new fellowship hall building with kitchen, stage and offices was constructed in 1994 under the leadership of Rev. James Dant. The addition of an elevator structure was completed in 1998 during the interim of Rev. Virlon Griner.First Baptist Church has always been a strong supporter of missions. The church has sponsored two missions, one which began as Dunn Memorial Baptist Church in the forties while Guy Atkinson was pastor. The other, Riverside Mission, began when Hugh Garner was pastor in the sixties. A scholarship fund for seminary students from First Baptist was put into the budget in 1998.First Baptist Church was a member of the Piedmont Association until 1894 when the Consolation Association was organized. Since 1894, it has been a member of the Consolation Association.Over the long history of First Baptist Church many outstanding men have served as pastor: James F. Reeves, George A. Blount, A.R. Richardson, M.O. Carpenter, L.A. Cooper, Jessie M. Gilmore, J.A.J. Dumas, Joseph A. Ansley (1909-10), E. F. Rice (1910-12), R.J. Mincey (1912-14), W.J. Ballew (1914-17), R.L. Bonsteel (1917-19), B.D. Porter (1919-22), Rufus D. Hodges (1922-24), Zach E. Barron (1925-29), Walter B. Feagins (1930-37), Ernest A. Kilgore (1938-43), Guy N. Atkinson (1943-48), Charles D. Stewart (1949-53), L. Bert Joyner (1953-60), Hugh P. Garner (1961-64), Ernest L. Carswell (1964-69), David B. Howle (1969-72), Cecil D. McCollum (1973-78), James W. Howard (1979-85), Julian Griner (1986-90), James C. Dant (1991-1997), James A.Meadows (1999-2009). Dr. Ches Smith (2009-2010). Rev. Keith Alderman (2010-Present)

Contact UsFirst Baptist Church15 N. Main StBaxley, Ga 31515Office: (912)367-2738 Fax: (912)367-2732DIRECTIONS

This Month This Month Our PurposeMission StatementFirst Baptist Church is a community of Christians dedicated toliving and sharing the love of Jesus Christ. Acts 2:44-47Vision StatementAs a community of Christian believers, First Baptist Churchseeks to live and share the love of Jesus Christ throughworship, prayer, fellowship, teaching, and service.

Our Purpose l Global

YouTube check us out on the web Sunday Worship Times10:30am & 6:00pmWed. Night Service6:30pm

First Baptist Church15 N. Main StBaxley, Ga 31513DIRECTIONS

“A Place for New Beginnings”