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MAYFIELD, Ky. (KT) -- A celebration weekend is planned at Trace Creek Baptist Church in observance of its 200th birthday.
"Trace Creek Baptist Church has been a pillar of faith and community for over 200 years," states the church's website. "Founded in 1824, our church has stood as a testament to the unwavering devotion and commitment of generations who have called this place home. Trace Creek Baptist Church has been a beacon of faith for generations."
Ronnie Stinson, Jr., in his 10th year as pastor, said the congregation is excited about the weekend activities. "This has been a great rallying point for our church -- it's been good for our fellowship. It gets people's minds settled in on how God has blessed us. He still has things for us to accomplish and wants to use us if we are willing. That is our goal -- to get laser-focused on reaching our community for Christ."
Stinson said the celebration will honor the past and get people's minds focused on what is ahead.
Events kick off Saturday, Sept. 28, with dedication of the church's Bicentennial Park at 5:30 p.m., followed by a cookout on the grounds at 6 p.m., a concert by The Martins at 7 p.m. and fireworks at 8:30 -- with those outdoor activities contingent upon the weather.
Trace Creek is in the process of completing Bicentennial Park, located on 15 acres beside its current property, Stinson said. A 50-foot cross has been erected and work on a pavilion is being finished. "We have a pond dug, but still to be built is a veterans memorial, playground area and walking trails. We are trying to develop the area for families to enjoy, and hopefully bring friends with them."
Sunday activities begin with a concert by the Trace Creek Baptist Church choir, then at 10:15 will be a homecoming worship service. "It's somewhat like a normal homecoming service," Stinson noted. It will include a special video presentation and some "memorable and notable things from our history." Stinson said most of the church's minutes have been preserved, including the original 1824 minutes when the church was started. "We did Founders Day a few weeks ago, and will have those (historical) pages on display in the foyer. Three weeks ago we did a reenactment of the church's organization -- it was a fun time. People dressed in 1820 attire."
Sunday's service will include remarks by Stinson as well as his father, who pastored the church for 41 years. Todd Gray, Kentucky Baptist Convention executive director, will preach the message.
Trace Creek's facilities escaped damage in the December 2021 tornado that ravaged the community. However, several families lost their homes during that catastrophic event.
"Trace Creek Baptist Church is blessed with a campus that reflects both our rich history and our thriving community," according to the church website. "With a sanctuary that seats 1,200, we have ample space for worship, fellowship and community events. Despite our large physical size, we pride ourselves on maintaining a close-knit, family atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed."
