MINUTES
GIBSON COUNTY MISSIONARY BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
33RD ANNUAL SESSION
Held with
First Baptist Church of Dyer, TN
September 8th & 9th, 1953
Next session will be held Tues. & Wed. Sept. 7th & 8th, 1954 at Poplar Grove Bapt. Church
Wilburn NELSON, Moderator Route #4, Milan, TN
R. J. COOPER, Assistant Moderator Dyer, TN
Walter M. MARTIN, Clerk Route #6, Humboldt, TN
Lofton ROBERTSON, Treasurer Humboldt, TN
Raymond SHANKLE, Chorister Dyer, TN
Mrs. Elvis HAYES, Pianist Trenton, TN
Executive Board Members – All officers of the Association and all pastors together with one board member from each church.
Rev. Walter M. MARTIN Humboldt, TN
Rev. David M. LAWLER Milan, TN
Rev. Joe ACUFF Bradford, TN
Rev. Willard CAYCE Jackson, TN
Rev. J. R. HAMLIN Martin, TN
Rev. W. A. FARMER Bradford, TN
Rev. J. D. MAY Alamo, TN
Rev. R. H. HAMPTON Bradford, TN
Rev. Barcley NEWMAN Memphis, TN
Rev. Russell ROGERS Dresden, TN
Rev. R. J. COOPER Dyer, TN
Rev. A. W. PORTER Greenfield, TN
Rev. H. A. TURNER Humboldt, TN
Rev. D. L. STURGIS Gibson, TN
Rev. F. D. STONE Trenton, TN
Rev. Hayward HIGHFILL Humboldt, TN
Rev. L. B. CULBERTSON Martin, TN
Rev. Henry WOOTEN Kenton, TN
Rev. Harry GARLAND Trenton, TN
Rev. Coy THURSTON Jackson, TN
Rev. J. G. PENICK Martin, TN
Rev. Barney FLOWERS Medina, TN
Rev. A. R. NELSON, Jr. Jackson, TN
Dr. H. J. HUEY Milan, TN
Rev. Earl OWENS Lexington, TN
Rev. J. O. SMOTHERS Dyer, TN
Rev. G. M. HORTON Jackson, TN
Rev. Wilburn NELSON Milan, TN
Rev. Hubert JONES Milan, TN
Rev. G. E. SNELL Trenton, TN
Rev. K. L. MOORE Greenfield, TN
Rev. E. V. MAY Rutherford, TN
Rev. R. W. IVY Trenton, TN
Dr. Paul A. WIELAND Trenton, TN
Rev. J. R. MILLER Kenton, TN
Rev. A. B. HARRIS Trenton, TN
Associational W.M.U. President – Mrs. D. O. FAIRLESS……….Trenton, TN
Associational Sunday School Superintendent – Rev. Coy THURSTON………Jackson, TN
Associational Vacation Bible School Director – Rev. Joe ACUFF…………....Bradford, TN
Associational Training Union Director – Rev. Daniel LAWLER……………..….Milan, TN
Associational Brotherhood President – Wayne HUNT……….…...…R.F.D., Humboldt, TN
Associational Chairman of Evangelism – Dr. H. J. HUEY.………………………Milan, TN
Associational Chairman of Stewardship – Rev. Willard CAYCE…………..Rutherford, TN
Rev. C. W. POPE, Executive Sec., 16th at Belcourt…………………………..Nashville, TN
Mr. Jesse DANIELS, Sunday School Supt., 16th at Belcourt…………………Nashville, TN
Mr. Charles NORTON, Sec. Training Union, 16th at Belcourt……………….Nashville, TN
Dr. Roger M. SMITH, Sec. Baptist Student Union, 16th at Belcourt….……...Nashville, TN
Dr. Richard OWEN, Editor, Baptist and Reflector, 16th at Belcourt …………Nashville, TN
Dr. Norris GILLIAM, Sec. Baptist Foundation, 16th at Belcourt….………….Nashville, TN
Mr. E. N. DELZELL, Sec. Baptist Brotherhood, 16th at Belcourt…………….Nashville, TN
Miss Mary MILLS, W. M. U. Exec. Sec., 16th at Belcourt……………………Nashville, TN
Antioch: Mr. & Mrs. Claude GREEN, Mr. & Mrs. R. N. RHODES, Rev. & Mrs. Walter M. MARTIN
Beech Grove: Mr. & Mrs. A. S. BRUCE, Mrs. Wynn SEWELL, Mr. & Mrs. John H. TODD
Bethel (Humboldt): Mr. J. C. OLDHAM, Mrs. Granville SCARBROUGH, Mr. Wilson CLANTON, Mrs. Mary DeLOACH, Mrs. Jack DRAKE, Mrs. Emmette SIMMONS, Miss Nancy BALLENTINE
Bethel (Yorkville): Mr. & Mrs. W. R. MARTIN, Mrs. Banks TURNER
Bethlehem: Mr. & Mrs. W. H. COKER, Mrs. Alvin JACKSON
Bethpage: Rev. & Mrs. J. R. HAMLIN, Mr. & Mrs. J. J. THOMPSON, Mr. & Mrs. J. T. DODSON, Mr. & Mrs. Alvin HARRELL, Mr. & Mrs. Roy HALL
Bradford: Rev. & Mrs. W. A. FARMER, Mr. N. D. GUY, Mrs. Alice McCALEB, Rev. W. A. BUTLER, Mrs. Nola ROBERTSON, Mrs. Callie WILSON, Mrs. Irby BOONE
Center: Mr. & Mrs. R. E. RICE, Mr. John WILLIAMS, Mrs. Lessie JACKSON
Chapel Hill: Mrs. Roy WEST, Mrs. Milton WOOD, Miss Marian SMITH, Mr. Hal LAWLER, Mr. & Mrs. O. A. SMITH
China Grove: Mr. Dewey FLOWERS, Mr. Charles H. JACKSON, Mrs. Elba THOMAS, Mrs. Gale MITCHELL, Miss Anna HALLIBURTON
Clear Creek: Mr. & Mrs. HALLIBURTON, Mr. & Mrs. DAVIDSON, Mr. Charlie MOODY
Dyer: Mr. Lee COLE, Mr. Albert FOSTER, Mrs. Ann CRAVER, Mrs. Joe TAYLOR, Mrs. Alice CRENSHAW, Mrs. Horace MAYS, Mrs. H. K. BEARD, Mrs. Wilsie DAVIDSON, Mr. & Mrs. Tollie FONVILLE
Eldad: Mr. Carlyle DAVIS, Mr. Audie WEST, Mr. H. H. HENSLEY
Emmanuel, Humboldt: No listings
Fruitland: Mr. & Mrs. Sam SCRUGGS, Mrs. Ernest MATHEWS, Mrs. Carl COLEMAN, Mrs. L. B. HICKS
Gibson: Rev. D. L. STURGIS, Mr. Joe MORRIS, Mrs. F. B. HAMILTON, Mrs. Bessie SHAVER, Mrs. Ruth DUNGAN
Hickory Grove: Rev. & Mrs. Frederick D. STONE, Mr. & Mrs. H. P. CLAYBROOK
Humboldt, First: Mr. J. H. THOMPSON, Mrs. Frank BOGGS, Mrs. Joe BOND, Miss Mary Margaret BOGGS
Idlewild: Mr. W. B. FORD, Mr. & Mrs. Johnie PHIFER, Mr. & Mrs. T. J. WALDROP
Immanuel, Trenton: No listings
Kenton: Rev. & Mrs. Henry WOOTEN, Miss Harrite KING, Mr. & Mrs. L. E. KEATHLEY, Mr. & Mrs. J. E. TAYLOR
Laneview (Kenton): Mrs. Nina CORLEY, Mrs. Finish Auther CORLEY, Mrs. Preston SHARP
Laneview (Trenton): Rev. Coy THURSTON, Mr. & Mrs. R. A. CARRIGAN
Lavinia: Rev. John G. PENICK, Mr. & Mrs. M. P. STRAYHORN, Miss Lanelle LONGMIRES
Latham Chapel: Rev. & Mrs. H. A. TURNER, Rev. Maurice COLEMAN, Mr. W. A. MITCHELL
Medina: Rev. & Mrs. Barney FLOWERS, Mr. & Mrs. Vernon BARNETT, Mrs. Roy GRAVES
Midway: Mr. & Mrs. Bob LOWRANCE, Mr. & Mrs. Edwin COUCH, Mrs. Robert L. DAVIS
Milan, First: Rev. H. J. HUEY, Mr. & Mrs. Clifford GRAHAM, Anna Mai CAGLE, Mrs. F. J. DICKEY, Mrs. Ora WATSON, Mrs. C. B. HARRISON, Mrs. J. J. FUQUA, Mr. Ernest JONES, Mr. & Mrs. L. D. HOLT, Robert HILL
Mt. Pisgah: Mr. & Mrs. W. G. SUTTON, Mr. & Mrs. J. L. POWERS, Mrs. Lillian REYNOLDS
Mt. Pleasant: Kermit CATES, Crockett CATES, R. C. ADAMS, Roy HOLMS, Kate HOLMS, Betris WOOLOM, Nima MOORE
New Bethlehem: Mr. & Mrs. T. J. GILMORE, Mrs. Paul GLISSON, Mr. E. L. PUCKETT, Virgie BALL, Ted KEATHLEY
New Hope: Mrs. K. P. WALKER, Mrs. Jim BROWN, Mrs. Floyd ROBINSON, Mr. & Mrs. Ben HALL
Northerns Chapel: Rev. Geo. M. HORTON, Mr. & Mrs. W. R. KING
Oak Grove: Mrs. Ada SCOTT, Mrs. Annie WOOD, Mr. & Mrs. Raymond COLE, Mrs. T. H. WHITE
Oakwood: Rev. Hubert JONES, Mr. & Mrs. Almus CROWE, Rev. Dan BARGER
Poplar Grove: Mr. A. J. DONALDSON, Mr. Bob LAWLER, Mr. John BUTLER
Poplar Springs: Mr. & Mrs. T. M. TATE, Mr. & Mrs. Raymond MAYO, Mr. & Mrs. E. E. WILSON
Rutherford: Rev. & Mrs. Ernest V. MAY, Mrs. Zula BALL, Mrs. Paris A. DUNCAN, Mr. John W. KING
Salem: Mr. & Mrs. Otha CROSSNOE, Mr. & Mrs. Aubrey HAYES, Mr. & Mrs. Joe THORNE, Mr. Dan THORNE
Spring Hill: Mr. & Mrs. J. W. NOWEL, Mr. & Mrs. Homer ROBERTS, Mrs. Lila ARNOLD
Trenton, First: Dr. & Mrs. Paul A. WIELAND, Rev. & Mrs. Wm. P. AFFOLTER, Durward BUFORD, Mrs. C. L. FAIRLESS, Jr., Harry GARLAND, Mrs. C. L. FAIRLESS, Sr., Mr. C. D. RAWLS, Mrs. C. D. RAWLS, Thomas BLACKWELL, Mrs. T. L. AUSTIN, Mr. W. G. ROBINSON, Mr. Carl F. HOUSE, Mr. Clyde PAGE, Mr. Dennis PAGE, Mr. Herbert FANN, Mr. & Mrs. George COUCH
Walnut Grove: Walter WARREN, Holly GLISSON, Aubrey PHELEN
White Hall: Boyd MARTIN, Mrs. Bertha JACKSON, Mrs. M. R. McCONNELL, Mrs. John L. WHITE, Sr.
First Day, Tuesday,
September 8th, 1953:
1. The thirtieth annual session of the Gibson County Missionary Baptist Association met with the First Baptist Church, Dyer. Moderator, W. A. FARMER, presiding.
2. Moderator FARMER called the meeting to order promptly at 10 o’clock. With Miss Mary MORECRAFT at the piano, Bro. Bill AFFOLTER led the song service in singing “All Hail They Power” and “Revive Us Again.”
3. The devotional was led by the Moderator, W. A. FARMER, using Psalm 128. Bro. W. A. BUTLER led in prayer.
4. Bro. R. J. COOPER, chairman of Program Committee, moved that the printed program be the order of business subject to any changes to be made. Motion carried.
5. New pastors were recognized and welcomed by the Moderator. Those present were: A. W. PORTER, Dan LAWLER, Ernest V. MAY, Barney L. FLOWERS, Robert W. IVY, K. L. MOORE, Willard R. CASEY, David LAWLER, G. E. SNELL, A. R. NELSON, Jr. Bro. Clifford GRAHAM, Educational Director of the First Baptist Church, Milan, was introduced.
6. Visitors were recognized. Those present were: Rev. Charles E. McKAY, Rev. and Mrs. W. W. SHANKLIN, Mr. J. O. YATES, Rev. Keith WILSON, Mr. L. T. STANFILL, Rev. and Mrs. Otey RHODES, Rev. and Mrs. R. E. CROUSE, Rev. J. A. MOUNT, Bobbie Nelle KINSEY, Bro. and Mrs. W. W. WEBB, Rev. T. A. PEERY, Mr. and Mrs. James SADLER.
7. Moderator FARMER appointed the following committees: Nominating – Hayward HIGHFILL (chairman), L. B. CULBERTSON, F. D. STONE; Recommendations – Henry WOOTEN (chairman), R. H. HAMPTON, Robert IVY; Digest of Letters – Hubert JONES (chairman), Ralph BRAY, K. L. MOORE; Petitionary Letters – Paul WIELAND (chairman), J. R. HAMLIN, G. E. SNELL; Program – Hayward HIGHFILL (chairman), Walter MARTIN, Barney FLOWERS, Daniel LAWLER; Orphans’ Home Truck – Ernest MAY (chairman), R. J. COOPER; Obituaries – A. W. PORTER, Richard NELSON, Jerry PENICK.
8. The clerk called the roll of the churches. Motion carried that the names of the messengers who are now present and those yet to come constitute the Association.
9. Rev. D. L. STURGIS, chairman of Committee on Petitionary Letters, read their report concerning Immanuel Church, Trenton. Motion carried that this report be accepted by the Association and spread on the Minutes.
We, your committee on Petitionary Letters, appointed last year to report this year, make the following report of our findings concerning the petition of Immanuel Baptist Church, Trenton, for admission into Gibson County Baptist Association:
1. We find that an organizational meeting was conducted June 29, 1952, in the courthouse at Trenton. That a presbytery composed of the following Baptist ministers: W. E. CHADWICK, Russell E. CROUSE, Vergil BARR and R. O. BROWN, and also a number of Deacons including Deacon RAWLS from First Baptist Church, Trenton;
2. We also find that none of the group composing the organization had letters in their possession. The minutes stated that they were accepted on statement as First Baptist Church had refused to grant letters at that time;
3. We found that later, on August 7, 1952, however, First Baptist Church granted letters;
4. We found that all organizational members were from First Baptist Church, except one from Salem who was accepted on promise of a letter;
5. We also find that the articles of faith were read and subscribed to;
6. We also reviewed their year’s work and found:
(1) that they experienced no gain in church membership,
(2) that they experienced a substantial loss in both Sunday School and Training Union enrolment,
(3) that they promised last year and have contributed $100.00 through the Cooperative Program.
We find the membership of this group cooperative with your committee, having a group, including their church clerk, meet with your committee this morning.
Respectfully submitted,
D. L. STURGIS, Chairman
R. H. HAMPTON
Henry J. HUEY
10. Other Petitionary letters were called for. The clerk read a letter from Emmanuel Baptist Church, Humboldt, petitioning the Association for admission as a member. Bro. Hayward HIGHFILL read a statement from the First Church,, Humboldt, as follows:
Gibson County Baptist Association
Thirtieth Annual Session
First Baptist Church
Dyer, Tennessee
The First Baptist Church of Humboldt started a mission program in the Northeast section of the city June 31, 1950. A full-time program was carried on under the supervision of First Baptist Church until May 3, 1953. At this time 98 members were granted letters to form the initial organization of Emmanuel Baptist Church.
First Baptist Church believed there was a need for this work and invested $17,250.00 in it. We rejoice in the progress of this our sister church. It is our privilege now to recommend Emmanuel Baptist Church of Humboldt to the Gibson County Baptist Association in the hope that the Association will receive this new church as one of its recognized members.
Hayward HIGHFILL, Pastor
First Baptist Church
Humboldt, Tennessee
11. Motion by Bro. H. J. HUEY that the Statement read by Bro. HIGHFILL be referred to the committee on Petitionary Letters. Motion seconded and carried.
12. Bro. G. E. SNELL moved that the Immanuel Baptist Church, Trenton, be accepted into our Association. It was seconded and discussed after which the Moderator asked for a standing vote. The motion carried and the Moderator extended the right hand of fellowship to the Messengers of the Immanuel Baptist Church, Trenton.
13. The clerk read the report of the Executive Board. Report adopted.
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
September 29, 1952
The Executive Board of the Gibson County Baptist Association met on Monday afternoon, September 29, 1952, at the First Baptist Church, Trenton, Tenn. The meeting was called to order by Moderator W. A. FARMER at 2:00 and we were led by Bro. Keith WILSON in singing “Love Lifted Me.” Miss Mary MORECRAFT was at the piano. Bro. J. R. HAMLIN led in prayer.
The Moderator announced that there were 27 present for one of the largest groups we have had in a Board meeting. Motion was carried that the Moderator be the Chairman of the Executive Board for this year. Bro. MARTIN made a report concerning the minutes. They are supposed to be ready by Thanksgiving. Our Associational Treasurer, Bro. Lofton ROBERTSON, made his report. We have $1,004.50 in the bank with 13 churches having paid toward the budget of the Association. The report was adopted.
Bro. Keith WILSON resigned as Associational Training Union Director because he was leaving the Association to become pastor of the Southland Baptist Church, Memphis, Tenn. A motion that Bro. WILSON’s resignation be accepted was carried. Motion that Bro. J. C. FRANKLIN be elected Associational Training Union Director was carried.
Bro. Ralph BRAY, our Associational Sunday School Superintendent, made a report as to his work and announced a Sunday School mass meeting in our Association on October 20, 1953 at 7:30 at the First Baptist Church, Trenton. Motion that the Moderator, clerk, and Associational Sunday School Superintendent select a Vacation Bible School Worker for the Association. Motion carried.
Mrs. D. O. FAIRLESS, our Associational W. M. U. President, asked to meet the pastors of the churches which have no Missionary Societies in them and also expressed a desire on the part of all the Associational W. M. U. officers to help any of the churches in any way.
Motion carried that this Board commend the work of Bro. Keith WILSON in our Association and that the clerk be instructed to send a letter of appreciation to his new church.
Motion carried that meeting adjourn. Bro. WILSON led in the closing prayer.
W. A. FARMER, Moderator
Walter MARTIN, Clerk
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
January 29, 1953
The Executive Board of the Gibson County Baptist Association met on Monday afternoon, January 29, 1953, at the First Baptist Church, Trenton. The meeting was called to order by Moderator W. A. FARMER at 2:00 and we were led in singing “Whosoever Will” by Bro. Bill AFFOLTER. Miss Mary MORECRAFT was at the piano. Bro. J. O. SMOTHERS led in prayer.
The Moderator complimented the good attendance at the Board meeting and observed that Monday after the fourth Sunday in the 2nd month in each quarter is to be the regular meeting of the Board. Bro. Waymond ROSS, pastor of Beech Grove, was introduced to the Board.
The minutes of the September 29, 1952 meeting were read and approved. The Clerk reported that the minutes would be ready today. Motion carried that the clerk be requested to get the minutes out in approximately thirty days after the Associational meeting even if it means paying more money than usual.
The Treasurer’s report was read by the clerk in the absence of the treasurer, and was adopted.
Bro. Ralph BRAY, Associational Sunday School Superintendent, gave a report on his work including an outline of the Southern Baptist Slogan – “A Million More In ’54.” Bro. D. L. STURGIS moved that the Moderator, Clerk and the pastors of our three largest churches in the Association constitute a steering committee for the Sunday School campaign for “A Million More In ’54.” The motion was seconded and passed with the stipulation that the committee work with the Associational Sunday School Superintendent.
Bro. BRAY set the date of February 10, 1953 as the time for the Associational Sunday School Leaders’ Meeting for “A Million More In ’54.” Motion carried that this meeting begin at 7:30 at the First Baptist Church, Trenton. March 31, 1953 was set as the second meeting of the leaders for “A Million More In ’54.”
Motion carried that we designate $100.00 extra in the program of promoting and advertising this campaign for “A Million More In ’54.”
Motion carried that the February Board meeting be dispensed with and that the next Board meeting be May 25, 1953. A substitute motion carried that the February meeting be eliminated.
Motion carried that the Moderator and Clerk instruct Bro. Hayward HIGHFILL that he is chairman of a committee to promote a School of Missions in our Association.
A motion to adjourn carried. Bro. D. L. STURGIS led in the closing prayer.
W. A. FARMER, Moderator
Walter MARTIN, Clerk
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
May 25, 1953
The Executive Board of the Gibson County Baptist Association met on Monday afternoon, May 25, 1953, at the First Baptist Church, Trenton. The meeting was called to order by Moderator, W. A. FARMER, at 2:00 and we were led by our pianist, Miss Mary MORECRAFT, and Bro. Lofton ROBERTSON in singing “Jesus Is The Friend You Need.” Bro. W. A. BUTLER led in prayer.
The Moderator then announced that a quorum was present and introduced the new pastors in our Association. The new pastors introduced were: Bro. G. E. SNELL, pastor of Poplar Grove; Bro. A. R. NELSON, Jr., pastor of Midway; Bro. Robert IVEY, pastor of Salem; and Bro. Barney FLOWERS, pastor of Medina. Letters were read by the Moderator from their former Associations concerning Bro. SNELL and Bro. FLOWERS.
The minutes of the January 29, 1953 Board meeting were read and approved.
Bro. Hayward HIGHFILL, chairman of a committee to promote a School of Missions in our Association for this year, reported that it was useless to try to have a School of Missions in 1953 because we would be unable to get any missionaries. He advised that if we were to have one in 1954 we should begin now. A motion that our Association have a School of Missions as soon as possible carried. Bro. HIGHFILL then stated that if the Association would set a definite date for a School of Missions that he would work out the details. A motion was carried that our Association have a School of Missions November 29 to December 4, 1954.
The Treasurer’s report was read by the treasurer, Bro. Lofton ROBERTSON and adopted.
Our Associational W. M. U. Superintendent, Mrs. D. O. FAIRLESS, brought a challenging report on the work of the women in our Association. She asked that the pastors help in raising money through the W. M. S. for the Girl’s Dormitory at Union University.
The Moderator asked that the Program Committee bring a report to the next Board meeting.
Motion made and carried that our Association cooperate in the Stewardship Campaign of October 18-25, 1953 and that the Moderator appoint a committee on it. The Moderator appointed Bro. E. V. MAY, Bro. Henry WOOTEN, and Bro. Barney FLOWERS to serve on this committee.
Bro. FARMER announced plans for an Associational R. A. Camp and passed out literature on it. A motion was made and carried that this R. A. Camp be limited to 150 boys. Motion carried that the Executive Board sanction and approve this Associational R. A. Camp. Motion carried that the Association underwrite up to $100.00, the expense of the R. A. Camp if a deficit occurs.
Bro. HIGHFILL suggested that we think about making plans at the August meeting for the Simultaneous Crusade for 1955.
A motion to adjourn carried. Bro. Wilburn NELSON led in the closing prayer.
W. A. FARMER, Moderator
Walter MARTIN, Clerk
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
August 24, 1953
The Executive Board of the Gibson County Association met on Monday, August 24, 1953 at the First Baptist Church, Trenton, Tenn. The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, W. A. FARMER, at 2:00 and we were led in singing “Take The Name Of Jesus With You,” with Bro. Richard NELSON leading and Miss Mary MORECRAFT at the piano. Bro. William E. LYLES led the opening prayer.
The moderator called for the reading of the minutes of the last meeting which were approved.
Bro. W. E. LYLES was introduced as a visitor in our Association. Also introduced was Bro. Dan LAWLER, pastor of the Mission of the First Baptist Church of Milan, Bro. Joe ACUFF, pastor of Bethel (Yorkville), Bro. Barclay NEWMAN, pastor of China Grove and Fruitland, and Bro. MILLER, the new pastor at Walnut Grove. A letter from the Graves County Baptist Association of Kentucky, commending Bro. MILLER to our Association, was read by Bro. FARMER.
The Treasurer’s report was read by the clerk in the absence of the treasurer.
Motion carried that a committee for an Associational Budget for the next Associational year be appointed. The Moderator appointed Bro. L. B. CULBERTSON and Bro. Joe LUCKEY on this committee.
The clerk read a letter of application for help in employing a pastor by the Emmanuel Baptist Church of Humboldt. This application was to the State Mission Board for the amount of $10.00 per week for the rest of this year and must be approved by this Executive Board before going to the State Mission Department. The application was approved.
Bro. FARMER made announcement as to the State Sunday School meeting in Nashville on August 27-28, 1953. Motion carried that Bro. Wilburn NELSON contact Bro. Ralph BRAY as to his correct status as Associational Sunday School Superintendent and to work with him on plans pertaining to “A Million More In ’54.”
The Moderator made a report of the R. A. Camp. This camp was a success both spiritually and financially. Bro. FARMER then read a letter from the owner of the farm where the R. A. Camp was held, offering to sell his property to our Association.
After much discussion, a motion was made and carried that a committee be appointed to investigate the purchase of this camp site or any other camp site which the Association may consider. The Moderator appointed Bro. Paul WEILAND, Chairman, Bro. Henry HUEY, Bro. R. J. COOPER, and Bro. Robert IVEY.
Motion made that the Moderator at the Association of September 8-9, 1953, appoint a Steering Committee for the Simultaneous Crusade for 1955. Motion carried.
Bro. HIGHFILL reported that there had been contact made with Bro. DELZELL as the School of Missions in our Association next year.
Motion to adjourn carried. Bro. Richard NELSON led in the closing prayer.
W. A. FARMER, Moderator
Walter MARTIN, Clerk
14. Bro. Bill AFFOLTER led in singing “Lead Me To Some Soul Today” and “Shall We Gather At The River,” after which Bro. R. J. COOPER, the alternate, read the scripture for the Doctrinal sermon. Bro. Walter M. MARTIN delivered the doctrinal sermon using I John 1:7 as a text in preaching on the subject, “The Blood of Christ.”
15. Bro. MARTIN closed the morning session with prayer.
Afternoon Session
16. The Association was called to order at 1:30 P.M. by the Moderator, W. A. FARMER. Bro. Bill AFFOLTER led in singing “I Am Thine, O Lord” and “My Faith Looks Up To Thee.”
17. Bro. Robert IVY brought the devotional, using Matthew 18 and led in prayer.
18. Motion carried that the report on Christian Education be filed and the recommendation therein to be considered at the time for miscellaneous business and that the time be given to Dr. Warren JONES of Union University and Bro. Stuart RULE of Harrison-Chilhowee Academy. Bro. RULE and Dr. JONES challenged hears as to the wonderful work of our Baptist schools.
REPORT ON CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Just as education is central in our general way of life, Baptist education is one of the strongest influences on our denominational way of life. Through the centuries churches and church schools in America have moved hand in hand, and the respective denominations have been strong pretty much in proportion to the strength of their schools and colleges. Tennessee is no exception to this general principle.
Baptist growth has been nothing short of marvelous in our good state. When we look behind the scenes we find out Baptist colleges preparing hundreds of young men every year with basic training, and the greatest strength is concentrated near these institutions whose ministerial students go out to hold pastorates while securing their college educations. In addition to the preparation of ministers, our school and colleges stimulate and prepare for Christian leadership in all walks of life, thus supporting the ministry in its special work.
To the extent, therefore, that Baptist schools are hindered in their progress, will the flow of such service be hindered in our denominational life? So long as our churches stand by our schools, and, in turn, our schools support our churches, there will be created an endless spiral of Christian service that will guarantee a continuous growth and a continuous service to Christ through our denomination.
On June 18, 1953, the state missions’ secretaries, state Baptist paper editors, promotional secretaries and foundation secretaries, along with several Southern Baptist Convention agency heads and Executive Committee members, met with the Education Commission and the Southern Association of Baptist Colleges and Schools for the purpose of formulating final plans for the first annual Convention-wide emphasis on Christian education, scheduled for April, 1954. This annual emphasis, which will recur each April, was given official approval by the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee on December 18, 1952. It is expected to bring about a new impetus for Christian education, a reorientation of thought and attitude on the subject among Southern Baptists. Specifically, it will be intended to educate our people to the responsibilities of the local church in the counselling of its high school young people.
The greatest need of our Southern Baptist educational institutions (which applies to our own Tennessee schools and colleges) is not increased financial support. It is, rather, a redefinition of responsibility for our most precious resource, the Christian service potential of our young people. Much has been said of leadership, but we shall not lack for leadership if we educate all our young people for Christian service; whatever their choice of occupation.
In the program of the church – in the Sunday School, the Training Union, the R. A. and G. A. organizations, the W. M. U. and the Brotherhood – are the best opportunities to inform boys and girls regarding Christian education. To a large degree in the Sunday School, and to an even greater extent in the Training Union, materials, programs and emphasis can be adapted to the task of leading our high school youth to careful consideration of the values of Christian education. We have been slow in making full use of these responsibilities. Through them we can cause our high school youth to study the question of college attendance carefully, earnestly, and with willingness to do God’s will.
Tennessee has been blessed with some of the finest Baptist colleges to be found in the Southern Baptist Convention, Carson-Newman College, Union University, Belmont College, as well as our academy, Harrison-Chilhowee. West Tennessee and Gibson County have a vital interest in Union University because of its proximity. The following is a general report of Union for the school year 1952-53.
Total Enrollment (including off-campus)………………649
Ministerial Students…………………………………….108
Missionary Students…………………………………….. 12
Religious Education and Church Music Students………. 18
In view of the foregoing, we recommend:
1. That our churches of Gibson Association support the first annual Convention-wide emphasis on Christian education, April, 1954.
2. That we continue to support in a financial way Union University.
3. That we urge our churches through their program of work to arouse the interest of our young people to attend Union University or one of our Baptist schools.
4. That we pray for our colleges and the heads of these institutions that in these trying days they may maintain the high standards of Christian education that have been the heritage of Tennessee Baptists.
Respectfully submitted,
Geo. E. ECKSTEIN
19. Motion carried to have the Orphans’ Home report at this time and to file the report with the clerk and give the time to Dr. W. C. CREASMAN, superintendent of our Children’s Home in Tennessee. Dr. CREASMAN spoke forcibly of our Orphans’ work.
ORPHANS’ HOME REPORT
Tennessee Baptists are now caring for more than 260 children through the two homes now in operation, and a third home is under construction at Chattanooga. When this home is complete we will have a home in each grand division of the State, Franklin, Memphis and Chattanooga. Since the last annual meeting of the Gibson County Baptist Association a new baby building has been added at the Memphis home. Needless to say, this baby building fills a long needed service to our work. Heretofore, the only group who would take infants abandoned by their mothers or those coming from broken homes have been the Catholic Orphanages. The Memphis baby building is complete and is now caring for these little ones that we have in the past neglected to recognize the need for their care.
All the homes are under the management of the Orphanage Board with Dr. W. C. CREASMAN as our most efficient Superintendent and Treasurer. The board consists of twenty-seven members coming from all sections of the entire State. This board meets annually to hear the reports of the work and to discuss the problems of the homes. Needless to say, it would be prohibitive to call this large board together for every problem that arises. Hence, we have an executive committee from the board to act when the need arises.
The officers for The Tennessee Baptist Orphans’ Home are as follows:
Dr. John L. HILL…………………………..President
W. C. SUMMAR…………………………..Vice-President
James E. GREGG………………………….Recording Secretary
Dr. W. C. CREASMAN……………………Superintendent-Treasurer
Executive Committee
Maxey JARMAN John L. HILL Haywood HIGHFILL
James E. GREGG William GUPTON W. C. SUMMAR
Advisory Committee
Robert GIVEN Mark HARRIS James E. TANKSLEY
J. G. LOTT Clyde PAGE D. A. ELLIS
F. E. CALDWELL
The advisory committee was elected from the board primarily for the purpose of advising and helping to solve the problems that arise in connection with the Memphis home. Hence, you will note that all of these men are from West Tennessee. The assistant Superintendent for the Memphis home is Brother James E. TANKSLEY. He is doing a fine job and we are proud of his work. Since we started gathering this report we have been advised that the home for the Superintendent at Memphis has been completed and Brother TANKSLEY and his family have moved in.
The homes now employ a Staff of forty-three and added personnel will be needed when the Chattanooga home is complete. The operation of the homes is big business and the need is great. We have assets of more than 1-1/2 million dollars. These assets consist of: land, buildings, equipment, Government bonds, livestock, current cash funds and other investments.
With out expanding program in the work and the calls coming from orphan children, we cannot conceive of Gibson County Baptists not supporting the work in every way they can. First, by our gifts through the Unified Budget; second, through the gifts by special offering; and third, by providing food and supplies for the homes when the truck comes around in the fall.
Respectfully submitted,
Clyde PAGE
20. The report on W. M. U. work by Mrs. D. O. FAIRLESS was read by Mrs. W. A. FARMER. This report was spoken to by Miss Mary MILLS, the new W. M. U. Executive Secretary for the State of Tennessee.
W. M. U. REPORT
Woman’s Missionary Union had for their watchword this year, John 4:35b. “Lift up your eyes and look on the fields, for they are white already to harvest.”
Praying and looking we see fields ready for the harvest. We are living literally at the harvest time of all the ages. Most of the doors are open today. Eager peoples are not only stretching forth their hands but are moving toward the claims of the Christian gospel. It is the supreme hour for evangelism in many lands. There is no near, no far to our Missionary Vision; there is one world of eternal souls to be rescued and saved through Christ. In Gibson County there are many who need to be won. May we, the W. M. U. of Gibson County, put forth every effort to reach these neighbors for the Master. Grant that we may hear that voice from Calvary say, “If I could afford to die for them, could you not afford to tell them about it?” We are stewards of the Message. How dare we quibble about the cost in the presence of Calvary?
We are grateful to everyone that has had a part in the promotion our work this year. A special word of appreciation is due Bro. W. A. FARMER, our County R. A. Counselor, and the many fine workers who helped in our first County R. A. Camp. God greatly blessed their efforts. There were 106 boys enrolled, 31 conversions, 2 surrendered to the ministry, 2 dedications to full time Christian service and a number of re-dedications. Surely this is a great challenge to continue our camp work in the county.
We have 39 WMS’ with 1,463 enrolled; 16 YWA’s with 135; 39 GA’s with 368; 28 RA’s with 250; 25 SBB’s with 444.
Total 147 organizations with 2,650 enrolled.
We have 15 graded Unions in the Association.
We have had 253 Mission Study Classes this year and have had 724 tithers reported.
The gifts of W. M. U. have been:
State Missions $1,181.30
Foreign Missions 2,643.53
Training School 304.85
Home Missions 1,837.35
Orphanage 331.77
United Tenn. League 185.54
Chilhowee Academy 17.00
Camp Fund 59.20
Tornado Victims 1,000.00
Divisional Expense 25.00
Associational Expense 230.30
Union University
Dormitory Fund 2,515.56
Misc. Gifts 54.00
As we look forward to the work of 1953-54, let us in the words of our new watchword, “Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples.” Psalm 96:3.
Respectfully submitted,
Mrs. D. O. FAIRLESS
21. Bro. Ralph BRAY reported on Vacation Bible School. Report adopted.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL REPORT 1953
There were 20 schools reported to the State office as of September 3. Only 8 of these had been reported to the Associational V. B. S. leader. There was one mission school reported. Milan First held a mission school at Northside Chapel, their newly organized mission Sunday School. We had one Standard School, First Church, Humboldt. Two BB, one C, one CC, one D, one E and two not graded. These are the reports we received.
There were 903 pupils enrolled in the 8 schools reported.
32 decisions made, one of every 28 enrolled.
187 actually worked in the schools.
The schools cost a total of $505.30, or 56 cents per child.
Total offering was $174.31.
We are seven schools short of last year’s report. Only half of our churches had schools. Shame on the churches which did not have one. We shall look forward to the next year report with not less than 40 reported schools.
The very best tonic for “A Million More In ‘54” is a Bible School in every Baptist Church.
Respectfully submitted,
Ralph BRAY
Assoc. Sun-Sch. Supt.
22. Bro. BRAY gave the report of the Sunday School work. Motion carried that the Sunday School report be adopted without recommendations.
SUNDAY SCHOOL REPORT TO GIBSON ASSOCIATION 1953
A Sunday School is to a church what milk is to a newly born baby. The sure way to have a great church is to have a great Sunday School. This year has been a good year in out Association and it is due to the work of all those who have put themselves to the task of enlisting and winning the lost for Christ.
Beginning the year we had a mass meeting with 22 churches represented and 173 people present. This was a great beginning. We had an associational group study course. The groups met at Gibson, Bradford and Rutherford, the pastors of each church had charge of the school and fair attendance was reported. There were 71 awards earned. The three schools costing $23.77.
There has been added to some of our Sunday Schools new classes and at least one more of out schools has become standard.
We attended the Sunday School convention held in Jackson. We were unable to attend any of the other State meetings.
In 1952, 22 churches reported 631 awards. In 1953 – Churches 24 – Awards 480.
In 1952, 27 V.B.S. were reported. In 1953, 20 V. B. S.
There was a loss of 253 in enrolment in 1953.
Gain in enrollment in 1952 was 216.
Standard schools as of August 15 – 3. There are 422 in Tennessee. One of our mission schools was organized into a church. Milan has started a mission school which is doing very fine.
We had the honor of teaching one study course at Poplar Grove with splendid attendance. Mrs. BRAY held a V. B. S. for Eldad Church.
Our report is as follows:
Cards written 19
Letters written 392
Committee meetings 5
Conferences held 31
Classes taught 4
Talks made 5
Churches visited 20
Miles traveled 1449
Forms printed and mailed 2843
Phone calls 101
Cash expenses $39.92
Respectfully submitted,
Ralph BRAY
Asso. Sun. Sch. Supt.
23. Motion carried that Bro. Leonard SANDERSON, Supt. Of Evangelism in Tennessee, be granted all the time he needs in speaking of “A Million More In ’54.”
24. The time for miscellaneous business had arrived. Moderator FARMER appointed a Steering Committee for the Simultaneous Evangelistic Crusade of 1955 composed of: Bro. Henry HUEY (chairman), Bro. Barney FLOWERS and Bro. Henry WOOTEN.
25. The Committee on Petitionary Letters gave its report. Motion and second that the Emmanuel Baptist Church, Humboldt, be accepted into our Association. Motion carried unanimously. Moderator FARMER extended the right hand of fellowship to the new pastor, Rev. H. A. TURNER.
REPORT ON PETITIONARY LETTERS
We, your committee, upon the letter of recommendation from the home church, First Baptist Church, Humboldt, which not only started the work but sponsored the organization, heartily recommend that the Emmanuel Baptist Church, Humboldt, Tennessee, organized May 3, 1953, be unanimously accepted as a member of Gibson County Baptist Association.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Paul A. WIELAND
Rev. J. R. HAMLIN
Rev. G. E. SNELL
26. The clerk read the recommendations of the Christian Education report which had been filed. Motion carried that these recommendations be adopted and that our Association go on record as continuing our same financial support to Union University.
27. Motion to adjourn carried and Bro. Jerry GLISSON led in closing prayer.
Morning Session – Second Day
28. Moderator FARMER called the meeting to order at 9:30 A.M. With Miss Mary MORECRAFT at the piano, Bro. Joe ACUFF led in singing “I Am Resolved.”
29. Bro. E. V. MAY gave the devotional using II Timothy 4:1-8 and led in prayer.
30. Moderator FARMER introduced the visitors that were present. Those present were: Rev. Knox LAMBERT and Rev. L. G. FREY.
31. The report on the Co-operative Program was ready by Dr. H. J. HUEY. The report was discussed by Dr. HUEY and adopted.
COOPERATIVE PROGRAM REPORT
The Co-operative Program is a practical, proven plan of concerted missionary activity based primarily upon the teachings of our Lord. It is a scriptural, systematic, equitable plan of finances for gathering the voluntary gifts of the more than 2500 Baptist churches of Tennessee and the more than 28,000 Baptist churches of the Southern Baptist Convention territory and giving them direction to the ends of the earth in accordance with and in obedience to the Great commission of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This plan of financing all of the Lord’s work by giving to every church, large or small, an opportunity to have a part in Kingdom enterprise was adopted by the Tennessee Baptist Convention in 1924, one year before it was adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention. The Co-operative Program has grown in favor with Tennessee churches until we hope to realize our goal of $2,000,000.00 annually this year, a goal reached by no other State save Texas.
In 1952 Gibson county Baptist churches contributed $37,610.27 through the Co-operative Program to our Baptist causes, with one church making no contribution. This year the churches of our Association have contributed $42,823.40, a gain of $5,213.13 over last year.
Every church of the Association is urged, as their budgets are prepared for the coming year, to make provision for a percent or a definite monthly amount to be sent regularly through the Co-operative Program to every cause that Baptist foster around the world.
Respectfully submitted,
Henry J. HUEY
32. Motion carried that the report on Social Service by Bro. R. J. COOPER be filed with the clerk and the time given to Bro. L. G. FREY.
REPORT ON SOCIAL SERVICE
One aspect of Social Service among Southern Baptists is the problem of race relations. The greatest area of friction in the South of course is between the white and the negro races. This problem is deeply rooted in American history and is the product of a series of tragic social experiences that have left their mark on both groups.
These deep rooted social prejudices do not easily die, and we who have set ourselves to the task of achieving peaceful and Christian relationships between the races must be patient. Genuine solution to the problem will not be found in laws to restrain or prescribe social action. Only in right attitudes can friendly and helpful solutions be found. The Christian attitude of “love thy neighbor as thyself” is all that will work, and that must be taught constantly, and practiced constantly until these old historic prejudices and hatreds can have time to die out among us.
Southern Baptists are facing this problem squarely and realistically. They are doing something about it through their Theological Seminaries, in training negro preachers and religious education workers. We are also giving financial aid to Christian Negro colleges and the American Baptist Theological Seminary.
The Sunday School Board is helping through large quantities of its literature furnished free of charge to Negro churches and institutions.
The greatest contribution which each one of us can give to this fundamental race relations problem is to consciously curb our own prejudices and seek to faithfully teach the health-giving Christian Doctrine of individual freedom before God, and the precept of “love thy neighbor.”
It is regrettable that the social evil of gambling is growing shamefully fast in America. “Bingo” parties by church groups are a scandal to be exposed and condemned to the public as the evil on the same moral plane as the card party or the crap game.
The national radio hook-ups that are the rage today with such slogans as “Strike It rich,” “Break the Bank,” “Winner Take All,” “Double or Nothing,” “Hit the Jack Pot,” need to be condemned by Christian people for the great national evil that they are. For how better can the devil train the American people to love gambling?
Another Social Service that may be rendered with great profit by our churches is a faithful teaching of the Bible doctrine of home relationships. With the national percentage of divorces per marriage growing steadily beyond the 1/3 basis, it is high time for our churches to do some practical teaching on the proper Christian home relations.
One of the ways of cure for these social evils is to follow our Church Covenant as it states – “We also engage to maintain family and secret devotion; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage, and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.”
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. COOPER
33. Report on Hospitals by Dr. H. P. CLEMMER was filed by motion of Bro. Dan LAWLER. Bro. LAWLER, Bro. N. D. GUY and Dr. Paul WIELAND spoke to the report. Report adopted.
ASSOCIATIONAL REPORT OF THE HOSPITAL COMIISSION
OF THE TENNESSEE BAPTIST CONVENTION
The teaching of the Scriptures in support of healing as a type of Christian service is too clear and definite to admit controversy. To heal the sick is as distinct in the teaching and ministry of Jesus as is the command to preach. The two are mentioned in the same verse, Luke 9:2, as follows, “And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.” We find this dual command in the same verse several times, as if thereby to emphasize their inseparable connection. In Luke 10:9 we have the Master’s, the Great Physician’s, own words linking the two together when He commands, “And heal the sick…. And say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.” Undoubtedly our divine Lord has joined the two, therefore, let not us, as Baptists, be the instrumentality to part them asunder.
The teaching of our Lord on this point is cumulative and as clear and unmistakable as anything to be found in the Bible. To emphasize the supreme importance of this kind of service He goes so far as to put it on the solemn basis of service to Himself. “For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: ….I was sick, and ye visited me: ….Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
Also, by the terms of the Great Commission, under which every bona fide Baptist body functions, we are committed to this type of service. Let us hear and heed, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them….Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you….” Since Jesus commanded that his disciples, “heal the sick” it is definitely included in this Great Commission. We have the same obligation to be faithful in the healing ministry which Jesus commanded as we have to be faithful in the preaching, teaching and baptizing ministry which He commanded. To fail at any one of these points is to be disobedient to our Lord.
Therefore, since the healing ministry is plainly taught in the Scriptures, both by precept and example, and since the Convention has repeatedly committed itself to the hospital idea, let us bravely and with that courage that should always characterize Baptists, face our duty, accept our task and go forward.
Someone may argue that we can obey the Savior’s command to heal the sick without the necessity of building hospitals or engaging upon institutional effort in this field. This is quite true, and the same argument can be applied to Christian Education, to our orphanage work and to the preaching of the Gospel itself. We can teach without having schools and colleges; we can train preachers, in some measure, for the ministry without seminaries; we can minister to and assist orphan children, in a measure, without building orphanages; and we can preach the Gospel and win the lost without erecting church buildings; but we can do none of these things as well without these institutions and the facilities which they furnish as we can with such facilities. The same reasoning that justifies the erection and maintenance of institutions for the execution of the Master’s command in regard to teaching and preaching argue for the building and maintenance of institutions in order to more adequately carry into execution His command to heal the sick, and likewise, there is as much justification for omitting the one as there is for disregarding the other.
Dr. H. P. CLEMMER
Statistics
Baptist East Tenn. Mid-State
Memorial Baptist Baptist
Patients admitted 24,576 11,994 7,164
Patient day 177,750 81,538 48,360
Births 2,529 1,813 1,469
% of occupancy 98.3% 87.8% 98.24%
Received from
Cooperative Program $10,000.00 $66,606.04 $49,823.07
Courtesy Discounts $31,231.00 $14,244.81 $ 7,494.00
Student Nurses 296 91 86
Interns & Residents 37 7 21
Approved by A.M.A. Yes Yes Yes
Approved by A.C.S. Yes Yes Yes
Approved for
Nurses Training Yes Yes Yes
Full time Chaplain Yes Yes Yes
Daily Devotions Yes Yes Yes
Rededications in Hospital 80 79 52
Conversions 49 32 24
34. Motion carried to extend the time for Bro. W. A. BUTLER to give a testimony as to the work of the Baptist Memorial Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.
35. The report on the Brotherhood by Bro. Vernon BARNETT was called for. Bro. BARNETT was not present. Motion carried to file Brotherhood report. No report filed.
36. The report on Religious Literature was read by Bro. Henry WOOTEN. It was discussed by Dr. Henry HUEY and Bro. N. D. GUY. Report adopted.
RELIGIOUS LITERATURE REPORT
It is impossible to read all of the printed matter in America. We have an opportunity to read a little, so why not read the best, why waste our time reading something of no value?
We have a printed paper that desires to come across the door-sill of every Baptist family in the State. There isn’t any paper in the State that would equal it. It is owned by Baptists, printed by Baptists and should be ready by Baptists, because it has been approved by Baptists.
It is the promoter of the Church in every home. Keeps everyone informed, interested, enlisted. I recommend to you The Baptist and Reflector for your reading enjoyment. You will find basic beliefs, activities in churches, people and places, Tennessee briefs, inspiration, Southern Baptist news, timely articles, reflections, editorials, features, laughs, evangelism, Cooperative Program, truth in cartoons, our Christian heritage, reports of treasurers.
Henry WOOTEN
37. The report on Pastor’s Retirement was read by Bro. Hayward HIGHFILL. Bro. HIGHFILL, Bro. Coy THURSTON and Dr. H. J. HUEY spoke to the report. Report adopted.
REPORT OF THE RELIEF AND ANNUITY BOARD OF THE
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION 1953
The Relief and Annuity Board of the Southern Baptist Convention continues to minister to more and more of our pastors, full-time denominational and church workers. In 1952 $2,149.43 more was spent for relief in Tennessee than the Baptists of our State gave for this purpose. It is manifestly imperative that our churches take at least on offering each year for ministerial relief if this program is to continue.
The ever-increasing load on the Relief Department of the Relief and Annuity Board has become a cause for deep concern for the Relief and Annuity Board and of the State secretaries. With so many pastors retiring who have never joined the Ministers Retirement Plan, the program has become acute.
There are more than 7,000 pastors over the Southland who have refused or failed to join this Plan and as they retire, they ask to be placed on the relief roll. A careful study of this problem with the State secretaries during the past several months has resulted in a drastic change in policy. After December 31st, pastors in active service who refuse to enter the Ministers Retirement Plan will no longer be eligible for assistance from the Relief Department. This Plan is the method of our denomination for taking care if its retired and disabled ministers. The denomination must have the cooperation of the pastor and his church.
Every church should enter the Plan and urge its pastor to enroll without delay. Pastors lacking only a few years of retirement age can, with the help of the denomination, earn for themselves small annuities. Your State secretary and his Relief Committee will take pleasure in recommending that these small annuities be supplemented by the Relief and Annuity Board. An intensive effort will be made during October, November, and December, to enroll all active pastors in the Ministers Retirement Plan before December 31st, 1953.
In view of the future potential load on the Relief Department, such action as outlined above is absolutely necessary. The Relief and Annuity Board is the only major retirement board in America that has not had such policy for many years.
For information about the Plan and application blanks, write your State secretary.
Respectfully submitted,
Hayward HIGHFILL
38. The report on Training Union work was ready by Miss Mary Margaret BOGGS. The report was spoken to by Mrs. Frank BOGGS. Report adopted.
TRAINING UNION REPORT
We are more conscious today that the Training Union, more than ever before, must be ready to meet the growing call of our churches for active, aggressive, and trained Christians who will move out into places of responsibility. Out entire church program is enlarging with every increasing opportunity, and our Training Union must realize that it is the vital training center upon which continued growth depends.
We believe that the Training Unions in the churches of our Association are on the move and that much has been accomplished this year.
Due to the fact that our elected Associational Director moved out of our Association, there was no organized work done until late in the Spring. At the suggestion of our state office, sufficient officers and organizations were set up in order to promote and have our Associational Intermediate Sword Drill Elimination and Young People’s Speakers’ Tournament.
Those who participated in the Speakers’ Tournament were Miss June MOORE, First Church, Milan, and Miss Doris RUMAGE, First Church, Humboldt. Miss RUMAGE represented our Association at the Regional Convention.
Participants in the Intermediate Sword Drill were Miss Ann MARKWELL, Miss Marilyn GATES, First Church, Milan; Miss Janice SIMPSON, Miss Norma Jean KOLWYCK, Medina; Bobby HIGHFILL, Miss Annette CLARK, First Church, Humboldt; Billy ARNOLD, Bradford; Betty GORDON, Faye HOLT, Dyer.
Miss Janice SIMPSON represented Gibson Association as First Place Winner in the Regional Sword Drill, where was chosen to participate in the State Drill at Nashville for the second year. We congratulate Janice on her fine spirit which contributed to her being a winner and the example which she has set for the other young folks of our Association.
Appreciation goes to the officers who so willingly agreed to take up the work in the Spring to accomplish whatever could be done. These have promoted their work and led their conferences at the one general meeting which was held in June. Clifford GRAHAM – Adult Leader; Bill AFFOLTER – Young People’s Leader; Mrs. Frank BOGGS – Intermediate Leader; Miss Lillie WILLARD – Junior Leader.
There are 35 Training Unions that we have knowledge of and one new Training Union at the Emmanuel Baptist Church, Humboldt.
We regret that we do not have the information to bring a complete report, but it would appear that our work has moved forward even though we have not had any organized program in the Association. We know of a good number of churches who have had Training Schools and one Enlargement Campaign in which our State workers assisted which was held at First Church, Humboldt.
We recommend that:
1. Each church participate in the Intermediate Sword Drill and Speakers’ Tournament.
2. Every church conduct at least one study course or training school this year.
3. Our churches use our Young People and Intermediates through Youth Week which is a promotion of the Training Union.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Margaret BOGGS
Acting Associational Training Union Director
39. With Assistant Moderator Wilburn NELSON presiding, Bro. Joe ACUFF led in singing the hymn “He Keeps Me Singing.”
40. The Missionary Sermon was delivered by Bro. R. H. HAMPTON, using Ephesians 3:21 and speaking on the subject “The Mission of Baptist Churches.”
41. Bro. HAMPTON led the closing prayer.
Afternoon Session – Second Day
42. Moderator FARMER called the session to order at 1:30 P.M. Bro. Joe ACUFF led in singing “Stand Up For Jesus” and “When We All Get To Heaven.”
43. Bro. Barney FLOWERS led the devotional using Philippians 3:1-14 and led in prayer.
44. Motion carried that the Nominating Committee be asked to bring in nominations for Associational offices.
45. The report on Evangelism was ready by Bro. D. L. STURGIS and spoken to by Bro. L. G. FREY. Report adopted.
REPORT ON EVANGELISM
The normal impulse of every born-again soul is to see another soul born again. There can be very little doubt as to what Christ has commanded His disciples to do. The Great Commission fixes that. It is “Unto all nations beginning from Jerusalem.”
As Dr. J. B. LAWRENCE points out, “It is the churches of Christ without exception going into all the world without limitation and preaching the gospel without modification to every creature without discrimination.”
We must somehow come to sense that the Kingdom of heaven, its enlargement and glory, is superlatively important now, and that evangelism is the chief and most important undertaking under heaven. We must feel the tug of sinning humanity’s need, and see “the broken and ruined splendor of the soul,” all the result of sin, and come to care enough to bother about our brother.
As the cross stands as the symbol of sacrifice, it being that upon which Jesus gave Himself for the world, and from which He bases His appeal to us for service, so may it come to have no other meaning for us than what it had for Him.
We would urge upon every heart the need for great love for lost men and for redoubled efforts to win them to Christ now. We would urge every church to consecrate itself anew to a thoughtful, earnest and continuous effort to evangelize at home and to the uttermost part of the earth, cooperating fully in the well laid plans for our work, believing that so long as men are not at peace with God they will be at war with themselves.
Respectfully submitted,
D. L. STURGIS
46. Treasurer’s report was read by Bro. Lofton ROBERTSON. Report adopted.
TREASURER’S REPORT TO THE GIBSON COUNTY BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
September 9, 1953
Cash on hand at beginning of year $ 684.54
Receipts for the year 972.40
________
Total funds for the year $1,656.94
Expenditures for the year 635.01
________
Balance on hand in the Merchants State Bank, Humboldt, Tenn. $1,021.93
Explanation of Expenditures
Item Amount in Amount Balance
Budget Used Not Used
Sunday School $ 150.00 $ 183.77 - $ 33.77
Training Union 200.00 5.00 195.00
Vacation Bible School 125.00 17.80 107.20
Clerk 50.00 50.00 None
Treasurer 25.00 25.00 None
Postage 25.00 18.94 6.06
Minutes 250.00 225.00 25.00
Miscellaneous 370.00 24.50 345.00
________ _________ __________
$1,195.00 $ 550.01
Note: $85.00 paid this year for 1952 Sunday School Supt. expense and clerk’s fee.
Twenty-six churches have paid their pledges to the budget in full.
One church paying their pledge monthly.
Two churches have paid nothing to budget.
Lofton ROBERTSON, Treasurer
47. Report of the Budget Committee was read by Bro. L. H. CULBERTSON.
48. Bro. Robert IVY moved to amend the report of the Budget Committee to include $300.00 for an R. A. Camp in our Association. Motion was seconded.
49. Motion made and seconded to amend the amendment to appoint a committee to study the camp site and investigate the possibilities of renting Camp Linden or some other camp and report to the Executive Board and come to the meeting of the next Association with the report. Motion carried.
50. The report of the Budget Committee was adopted.
REPORT OF BUDGET COMMITTEE
We, the Budget Committee, recommend the same budget as the past year, except the clerk’s fee and Minute Fund. We recommend clerk’s fee to be raised from $50.00 to $75.00 and Minute Fund from $250.00 to $350.00, making total expenditures $1,325.00. With the churches’ suggested goal the same as last year, we feel this will balance out. Suggested churches’ goal - $1,322.50; Suggested budget - $1,325.00.
Association S. S. Supt. $150.00
Association T. U. Director 200.00
V. B. S. Director 125.00
Clerk’s fee 75.00
Treasurer’s fee 25.00
Postage 25.00
Miscellaneous 370.00
Minutes 350.00
Suggested goals for each church:
Antioch $ 60.00 Mt. Pisgah $ 15.00
Beech Grove 15.00 Mt. Pleasant 10.00
Bethel (Humboldt) 20.00 New Bethlehem 20.00
Bethel (Yorkville) 15.00 New Hope 15.00
Bethlehem 15.00 Northern’s Chapel 12.50
Bethpage 25.00 Oak Grove 12.50
Bradford 50.00 Oakwood 40.00
Center 30.00 Poplar Grove 20.00
Chapel Hill 15.00 Poplar Springs 15.00
China Grove 20.00 Rutherford 50.00
Clear Creek 10.00 Salem 50.00
Dyer 60.00 Spring Hill 30.00
Eldad 20.00 Trenton, First 100.00
Fruitland 15.00 Idlewild 10.00
Gibson 50.00 Kenton 25.00
Hickory Grove 30.00 Laneview (Kenton) 10.00
Humboldt, First 100.00 Laneview (Trenton) 20.00
Lavinia 20.00 Latham’s Chapel 40.00
Medina 60.00 Walnut Grove 50.00
Midway 12.00 Whitehall 35.00
Milan 100.00 _______
Total $1,322.50
Faithfully submitted,
L. B. CULBERTSON
Joe LUCKEY
51. Bro. A. R. NELSON, Jr. moved that the names of those who have passed on during the past year be filed with the clerk. Motion carried. Bro. NELSON read from I Thes. 4 and Bro. Robert IVY led in prayer.
52. Moderator FARMER appointed Bro. Robert IVY (chairman), Bro. F. D. STONE, and Bro. D. L. STURGIS on the Camp Committee.
53. It was now time to elect officers. The following ere elected: Moderator – Wilburn NELSON; Assistant Moderator – R. J. COOPER; Clerk – Walter M. MARTIN; Chorister – Raymond SHANKLE; Pianist – Mrs. Elvis HAYES; Treasurer – Lofton ROBERTSON.
54. Bro. Hayward HIGHFILL read the report of the Nominating Committee. The report was adopted.
REPORT OF NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Christian Education G. E. SNELL
Co-operative Program E. V. MAY
Orphans’ Home R. J. COOPER
Religious Literature Robert IVY
Baptist Hospital Dr. C. W. DAVIS
Pastor’s Retirement Barney FLOWERS
W. M. U. Report Mrs. C. L. FAIRLESS
Social Service David LAWLER
Sunday School F. D. STONE
Training Union Hubert JONES
Brotherhood Wayne HUNT
Obituaries A. W. PORTER
Chairman of Evangelism J. H. HUEY
Chairman of Stewardship Willard CAYCE
Vacation Bible School Director Joe ACUFF
Chorister Raymond SHANKLE
Pianist Mrs. Elvis HAYES
Sunday School Superintendent Coy THURSTON
Training Union Director Daniel LAWLER
Brotherhood President Wayne HUNT
We recommend:
1. That each session of the Association have a central theme.
2. That all reports on that theme be given at that session.
3. That we have a special speaker to bring the message on the theme for that session.
4. That the program committee be instructed to follow these recommendations.
Hayward HIGHFILL
Frederick D. STONE
L. B. CULBERTSON
55. Bro. Henry WOOTEN read the report on Resolutions. Report adopted.
REPORT ON RESOLUTIONS
1. Be it resolved, that we your committee, speaking in behalf of the entire body of Gibson County Baptists, express our heartfelt thanks to our Heavenly Father for all the souls who were saved by the Grace of God, for those who were baptized into our Baptist Churches and to those lives, dedicated to the will and purpose of the program of our Heavenly Father.
2. Be it further resolved, that we express our sincere thanks to the Dyer Baptist Church for the fine meals, the use of their building, and the wonderful fellowship.
3. Be it resolved, that we return to our Churches with a burning desire to do more for our Lord than we have ever done.
Robert IVY
R. H. HAMPTON
Henry WOOTEN
56. Bro. Henry WOOTEN read the report of the Recommendations Committee. Report as follows: Place – Poplar Grove Baptist church; Time – September 7 and 8, 1954; Doctrinal Sermon – J. R. HAMLIN, Alternate – L. B. CULBERTSON; Missionary Sermon – Wilburn NELSON, Alternate – Cletus MOORE. Report adopted.
57. Motion carried that Bro. Hayward HIGHFILL be added to the Program Committee and to act as Chairman.
58. There was motion to adjourn to meet with the Poplar Grove Baptist Church on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 7 and 8, 1954. Motion carried.
59. The messengers stood and Bro. D. L. STURGIS led in the closing prayer.
OUR BELOVED DEAD
ANTIOCH: Mrs. Luther MULLINS, Mr. Ed. GRAVES (deacon), Mrs. Luther HAMMONDS
BEECH GROVE: Mrs. John LEEK
BETHEL (Yorkville): Mrs. Maggie COUCH, Mr. Lewis SHAW
BETHLEHEM: Mrs. I. J. SLOAN, Mr. Elmer CROWELL, Mrs. Sue TAYLOR
BETHPAGE: Mr. Drewery DAVIS, Mrs. Annie ARNOLD, Mr. Gray MATHIS (deacon)
BRADFORD: Mrs. T. F. BLANKENSHIP, Mr. T. F. BLANKENSHIP, Mr. Ralph NIXON, Mr. G. C. CARR
CENTER: Mrs. J. H. KOFFMAN
CHAPEL HILL: Mrs. Cora WEST, Mrs. John KARNES
CHINA GROVE: Mr. Winfred GIBSON, Mr. Joe GIBSON, Mr. Ernest G. JACKSON, Mr. Martin CUNNINGHAM, Mr. Andrew KING, Miss Fannie SAMPLE
CLEAR CREEK: Mr. Ezra HALL
DYER: Mrs. Lillian BARNETT, Mr. Fain GRIFFIN, Mrs. Albert RAINES, Mrs. Willie T. BECTON, Mrs. Tillie CLOAR, Mrs. C. B. WHITE
ELDAD: Mr. Dewey WALLSMITH
HUMBOLDT, FIRST: Mr. W. L. COLEMAN, Mrs. J. E. DANIELS, Mrs. Margaret WORTHAM, Mr. A. L. TEAGUE (deacon), Mrs. A. L. TEAGUE, Mrs. Minnie COLLINSWORTH, Mr. W. A. SPANGLER, Mr. T. D. ING, Mrs. John STOVALL, Mr. B. C. JARRELL, Mrs. M. E. GARDNER, Mrs. Ernest CROSBY, Mrs. Locie HAWKS, Mrs. Herman SINCLAIR
IDLEWILD: Mr. Gaither SMITH (deacon)
KENTON: Mrs. Ruth HOWARD, Mrs. Lucy BROWN, Miss Ada Belle DUGGINS
LANEVIEW (Trenton): Mr. K. W. SKILES
LATHAM CHAPEL: Mrs. Mollie GARDNER
MEDINA: Mrs. Zula KING, Mr. Charlie HICKS
MILAN, FIRST: Mrs. Addie HARDIN, Mrs. J. E. FIELDS, Mrs. Paul EDDINGS, Mr. Dewitt WALDROP, Mr. L. L. POWERS, Mr. J. Henry MARTIN
MT. PLEASANT: Rev. Arthur GRUENER (pastor), Mr. Gilbert LAMB, Ora HAMPTON, George CRUTCHFIELD, Lucy AKIN, Magaline MITCHELL
NEW BETHLEHEM: Mrs. M. DEFOE
NEW HOPE: Mrs. Vannie COOPER, Mr. T. A. KING
OAK GROVE: Mrs. Athie SETTLES
OAKWOOD: Mrs. John CONNELL, Mr. Clark McCAIN, Mr. Ernest PEEK, Mrs. L. M. REEVES, Mr. Roy POWELL (deacon)
POPLAR SPRINGS: Mrs. Mollie TATE
TRENTON, FIRST: Mrs. Marie FISHER, Mrs. L. B. ADAMS, Mr. Will COOPER, Mr. J. M. MOORE, Sr. (deacon), Mrs. Lela Belle PALMER, Mr. Thomas INGRAM, Mrs. Wallace Yates HAYS, Mr. Harwood WILSON, Mrs. W. J. DERRICK, Mr. Marvin McDEARMON, Mrs. E. A. BARBER
WALNUT GROVE: Mrs. Lee McDANIEL, Mrs. Avon DUNCAN, Mrs. Gertrude BORNER
CHURCHES AND OFFICERS FOR YEAR ENDING JULY
31, 1953
|
CHURCH |
PASTOR |
SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPT. |
TRAIN’G UNION DIR. |
W. M. S. PRES. (MRS.) |
TREASURER |
CHURCH CLERK |
|
Antioch |
Walter Martin |
Harris Nelson |
Jas. Goodrich |
Eugene Luckey |
Eugene Luckey |
Hayes Allen |
|
Beech Grove |
David M. Lawler |
Vance Holt |
|
B. G. Davidson |
Dewey Coleman |
John H. Todd |
|
Bethel (Humboldt) |
Ralph Bray |
Wilson Clanton |
Terry Blurton |
John Clanton |
Herndon McLeray |
Marion Kyles |
|
Bethel (Yorkville) |
Joe Acuff |
Elmer Warren |
|
Banks Turner |
Will Allmon |
Mrs. A.L. Williams |
|
Bethlehem |
Willard Cayce |
W. H. Coker |
Jerry Nickols |
Jerry Nickols |
Guy Webb |
Emerson King |
|
Bethpage |
J. R. Hamlin |
Alvin Harrell |
Billy Griggs |
|
Curtis Smithson |
Mrs. Curtis Smithson |
|
Bradford, First |
W. A. Farmer |
Willard Gordon |
J. T. Usery |
Callie Wilson |
Maggie Wofford |
Aubrey Tubbs |
|
Center |
J. D. May |
James Hinson |
N. M. Overall |
Ed Washburn |
Mrs.B.Hamilton |
Mamie Mitchell |
|
Chapel Hill |
R.H. Hampton |
Sam Rollins |
Gilbert Sumeer |
Roy West |
Aaron Oakley |
Lydia S. Rollins |
|
China Grove |
Barcley Newman |
H. J. Webb |
|
Edd Stewart |
E. A. Thomas |
Charles H. Jackson |
|
Clear Creek |
Russell Rogers |
Raymond Halliburton |
Wade McCaslin |
Charlie Moody |
Rex Mercer |
E. B. Fletcher |
|
Dyer |
R. J. Cooper |
Raymon Carroll |
W.G. Gulledge |
Lon Croom |
Jno. L. Smith |
Mrs. H. Holt |
|
Eldad |
A. W. Porter |
Ira Bobbitt |
H. H. Hensley |
H. H. Hensly |
Carl Bobbitt |
Carlyle Davis |
|
Emmanuel (Humboldt) |
H. A. Turner |
Ross Dover |
L. L. Sullivan |
Edgar Wilkes |
A. P. Simmons |
Mrs. Cecil Crocker |
|
Fruitland |
Barcley Newman |
W. E. Hunt |
|
Carl Coleman |
W. L. Scruggs |
Douglass Nix |
|
Gibson |
D. L. Sturgis |
Joe Cooper |
I. H. Hester |
J. C. Warmath |
R.N. James |
Travis James |
|
Hickory Grove |
F. D. Stone |
Houston Harwood |
Billy Crenshaw |
F. D. Stone |
Houston Harwood |
Harold Crenshaw |
|
Humboldt, First |
Hayward Highfill |
Shelby Browning |
Jas. Robt. Chatham |
Joe T. Bond |
Leonard Stallings |
H. C. Boyte |
|
Idlewild |
L. B. Culbertson |
Cecil Thetford |
Paul V. Ingram |
Jessie Steele |
G. R. Baker |
William B. Ford |
|
Immanuel, Trenton |
|
Donald Maness |
Glenn Cannon |
|
A. J. Vawter |
Mrs. Lorene Goodwin |
|
Kenton |
Henry Wooten |
A. L. Reeves |
Harold Wayne Long |
Idell Smith |
Herbert Taylor |
Ralph Perryman |
|
Laneview (Kenton) |
Harry Garland |
Carmon Merrick |
|
Silvia Davis |
Mrs. Lola Harris |
Mrs. Preston Sharp |
|
Laneview (Trenton) |
Coy Thurston |
Clagward Catham |
Walter Garner |
Eldon Davis |
R. A. Carrigan |
Mrs. Birdie McIlwain |
|
Lavinia |
J. G. Penick |
Chas. Fry |
|
|
F. H. Ezell |
H. P. Strayhorn |
|
Latham Chapel |
|
Lary Mills |
W. A. Mitchell |
Opal Replogle |
Glen H. Towater |
Glen H. Towater |
|
Medina |
Barney Flowers |
Charlie Cash |
James Morse |
James Morse |
Mrs. Roy Graves |
Mrs. W. W. Barnes |
|
Midway |
A. R. Nelson |
Robt. Garner |
Tollie Cunningham |
Wallace Thornton |
Waldon Davidson |
Mrs. Frank Dodson |
|
Milan, 1st |
H. J. Huey |
Cliford Graham |
Cliford Graham |
C.B. Harrison |
Walton Bonds |
C.E. Bradley |
|
Mt. Pisgah |
R. H. Hampton |
J. R. Reynolds |
C. McCortney |
Norean Hampton |
Clay Sellers |
J. P. Reynolds |
|
Mt. Pleasant |
Earl Owens |
R. J. Akin |
John Moore |
|
John Moore |
Kermit Cates |
|
New Bethlehem |
J. O. Smothers |
L. M. Blurton |
Glen Echols |
T. J. Gilmore |
A. L. Glisson |
Farris S. Garrett |
|
New Hope |
A. R. Nelson |
A. B. Kerr |
Jim Brown |
Brown Kert |
H.C. Cavitt |
Ben Hall |
|
Northerns Chapel |
G. M. Horton |
Joe Lynn West |
|
|
W. R. King |
Mrs. H. R. Montgomery |
|
Oak Grove |
Wilburn Nelson |
Argyle Graves |
Van Mullins |
J.D. DePriest |
Edwin Forrester |
Louis Stavely |
|
Oakwood |
Hubert Jones |
Clyde Cates |
H. DePriest |
Ralph Mayo |
J. C. Pafford |
Mrs. R. Mayo |
|
Poplar Grove |
G. E. Snell |
A. J. Donaldson |
J. D. Skiles |
A. W. Dew |
E. B. Hammond |
H. E. Wofford |
|
Poplar Springs |
K. L. Moore |
Clyde Crocker |
C. C. Bullington |
Bernice Jones |
J. T. Walker |
J. L. Jones |
|
Rutherford |
E. V. May |
David Fairless |
Jno. B. Bell |
Zula Ball |
F. P. Elrod |
John W. King |
|
Salem |
R. W. Ivy |
Thos. Kinsey |
Chas. Fairless |
|
J. A. Hayes |
Mrs. J.A. Hayes |
|
Spring Hill |
A. W. Porter |
Taylor Arnold |
Herhsal Carlton |
Milton Taylor |
A.F. Crenshaw |
A. F. Crenshaw |
|
Trenton, 1st |
P. A. Wieland |
Durward Buford |
Mrs. C. L. Fairless, Jr. |
C. L. Fairless, Sr. |
Carl F. House |
Durward Bufort |
|
Walnut Grove |
J. R. Miller |
Harry Landron |
|
Maxie Turner |
Jas. Yarbrough |
L.V. Smith |
|
White Hall |
A. B. Harris |
Robt. Jackson |
Boyd Martin |
Robt. Jackson |
Florence Weber |
Mrs. Martin Alexander |
THE ORIGIN OF THE GIBSON COUNTY MISSIONARY BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
The Central Baptist Association was organized in 1836 and held annual session continuously until 1923. The churches of this association comprised the churches of Madison County, Gibson County, and part of Carroll and Weakley Counties.
At the meeting of the association which was held with the Laneview (Trenton) Church September 12th and 13th, 1923, a motion prevailed to divide the Central Baptist Association and in its stead, organize separate associations for Gibson and Madison counties. As a result the Gibson County Missionary Baptist Association was organized and held its first annual session with the Humboldt Baptist Church, September 10th and 11th, 1924.
The last moderator of the Central Baptist Association was B. F. JARRELL, of Humboldt, and the first moderator to be elected for the Gibson County Association was Dr. H. A. TODD, pastor of the Trenton Baptist Church. Thus came into being what is now known as the Gibson County Missionary Baptist Association.
HISTORY OF GIBSON COUNTY MISSIONARY BAPTIST
ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL SESSIONS
|
YEAR |
WHERE HELD |
PREACHER |
MODERATOR |
TREASURER |
|
1924 |
Humboldt |
R. N. Owen |
H. A. Todd |
W. D. Davis |
|
1925 |
Milan |
L. R. Riley |
H. A. Todd |
W. D. Davis |
|
1926 |
New Bethlehem |
C. L. Bowden |
R. W. Puckett |
W. D. Davis |
|
1927 |
Medina |
W. C. Skinner |
R. T. Skinner |
W. D. Davis |
|
1928 |
Bethpage |
D. L. Sturgis |
W. F. Carlton |
W. D. Davis |
|
1929 |
Atwood |
J. L. Robertson |
W. F. Carlton |
J. I. Jones |
|
1930 |
Chapel Hill |
H. J. Huey |
W. F. Carlton |
J. I. Jones |
|
1931 |
Walnut Grove |
C. O. Simpson |
J. L. Robertson |
J. I. Jones |
|
1932 |
Spring Hill |
H. W. Ellis |
J. L. Robertson |
J. I. Jones |
|
1933 |
Bethlehem |
W. M. Pratt |
J. L. Robertson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1934 |
Poplar Grove |
H. C. Cox |
J. L. Robertson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1935 |
China Grove |
D. D. Smothers |
C. O. Simpson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1936 |
Eldad |
Lyn Claybrook |
C. O. Simpson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1937 |
Center |
S. R. Woodson |
C. O. Simpson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1938 |
Mt. Pleasant |
W. R. Hill |
C. O. Simpson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1939 |
Bethel (Humboldt) |
H. B. Woodward |
H. J. Huey |
I. H. Perry |
|
1940 |
Oak Grove |
L. M. Mayer |
H. J. Huey |
I. H. Perry |
|
1941 |
Antioch |
W. A. Farmer |
S. R. Woodson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1942 |
Kenton |
Reece R. Bledsoe |
S. R. Woodson |
I. H. Perry |
|
1943 |
Bradford |
Wade Carver |
W. A. West |
W. H. Keathley |
|
1944 |
Milan |
Paul A. Wieland |
W. A. West |
W. H. Keathley |
|
1945 |
Center |
W. A. West |
Paul A. Wieland |
W. H. Keathley |
|
1946 |
Whitehall |
F. W. Gillespie |
Paul A. Wieland |
W. H. Keathley |
|
1947 |
Salem |
R. H. Hampton |
H. J. Huey |
John Morris |
|
1948 |
Humboldt |
H. A. Turner |
R. H. Hampton |
John Morris |
|
1949 |
Humboldt |
W. A. West |
Hayward Highfill |
John Morris |
|
1950 |
Trenton |
Dillard West |
Hayward Highfill |
L. Robertson |
|
1951 |
China Grove |
Clyde Burke |
Clyde Burke |
L. Robertson |
|
1952 |
Trenton |
Hayward Highfill |
W. A. Farmer |
L. Robertson |
CLERKS OF THE ASSOCIATION
|
YEAR(S) |
CLERK’S NAME(S) |
|
1924-38 |
J. W. Haynie |
|
1939-44 |
N. D. Guy |
|
1945 |
R. H. Hampton |
|
1945-46 |
Miss Annette Logan |
|
1947 |
D. P. McFarland and I. H. Perry |
|
1948-49 |
I. H. Perry |
|
1949-50 |
Dillard A. West |
|
1950 |
Russell E. Crouse |
|
1950-51 |
W. A. Porter |
|
1952-53 |
Walter Martin |
DATES* – CHURCHES ESTABLISHED
|
NAME OF CHURCH |
DATE |
|
Antioch |
1830 |
|
Bethel (Humboldt) |
1874 |
|
Bethel (Yorkville) |
1836 |
|
Bethlehem |
1833 |
|
Bethpage |
1860 |
|
Bradford, First |
1875 |
|
Center |
1874 |
|
China Grove |
1851 |
|
Dyer |
1885 |
|
Eldad |
1828 |
|
Fruitland |
1905 |
|
Gibson |
1877 |
|
Hickory Grove |
1863 |
|
Humboldt, First |
1867 |
|
Idlewild |
1911 |
|
Laneview (Kenton) |
1906 |
|
Laneview (Trenton) |
1920 |
|
Lavinia |
1840 |
|
Latham Chapel |
1915 |
|
Medina |
1883 |
|
Midway |
1934 |
|
Milan, First |
1865 |
|
Mt. Pisgah |
1860 |
|
New Hope |
1914 |
|
Northerns Chapel |
1913 |
|
Oakwood |
1900 |
|
Poplar Grove |
1843 |
|
Rutherford |
1869 |
|
Salem |
1847 |
|
Spring Hill |
1832 |
|
Trenton, First |
1850 |
|
Walnut Grove |
1843 |
|
White Hall |
1942 |
*DATES OF ORGANIZATION WERE NOT GIVEN IN THE MINUTES OF THE 30TH ANNUAL SESSION FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE CHURCHES.