THE LITTLE CHURCH

I found a dandy church today,

It wasn't large or fine.

It was just a very common one

That caught this heart of mine.

I found a welcome warm and true.

I heard the people pray.

I had a glow down deep inside

As I went on my way.

I sensed they knew the Master,

And in their love for Him

They sought to shed that love abroad,

That others they might win.

O yes, I found a little church

Concerned for others needs.

I felt that I had worshipped God

My heart was warmed, indeed.

It's not a marble structure tall,

With spires toward heaves blue

That makes a church, but sincere folk

Who strive God's will to do.

Unkown

HISTORY OF THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF ALBANY

The church was first organized in the Athens township at the Langingham School house (located on what is now the farm of Maurice Guess) between 1858 and 1860 and was called the Baptist Church of Albany. Shortly after 1860 the church was moved to the town of Albany where it has remained.

In 1870 the church ceased having regular services for about three years. In 1873, the demonination erected a frame building on the south part of the lot which is now the High School grounds. The church building was sold in April, 1882, to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for the debt.

The present organization dates from July 17, 1891. S.R. Dillion, pastor, led in the organizing and constituting of the First Baptist Church of Albany. Despite many obstacles, the church continued to grow in membership and influence. In 1920, it was decided to purchase a larger building. The former M.E. Methodist Church was purchased and the first day of service was held May 9, 1920, on Mother's Day.

In June, 1948, the lot west of the church building was purchased and in 1950 an annex was built.

Remodeling was done on the sanctuary in 1963-64. In the spring of 1967, the new educational building was built adjoining the old annex.

In 1972, the sanctuary was painted, carpeted, and new pews were added. Extensive renovation of the basement under the auditorium was completed in the summer of 1982. In the fall of 1982 the sanctuary was remodeled, including a new choir loft and baptistery.

In August 1987, a new parlor grand piano was purchased and placed on the platform. In May 1989, a fund was established for the purpose of buying a bus.

Over the years, several men from the church have responded to God's call to the ministry and are presently serving as pastors in other Southern Baptist churches.

On June 12, 1996, a committee of five members was elected to search for a site to build a new church. After a six month search, members voted unanimously on January 8, 1997, to purchase the Ora Steinman estate, consisting of 3.4 acres, northwest of town on Highway 136.

There were several obstacles to overcome. The members cleared the land of trees and buildings. The water and sewer lines were run through the property because of a neighboring business. God intervened again in 2002-03 when the Missouri Highway Department replaced the bridge west of town and dumped needed fill dirt onto the site to prevent flooding. Several church members then leveled it out and the property is now at the desired height.

In May 2003, the church voted to purchase an additional 8 acres adjacent to the current site.

Members are continuing to see God work as they serve others and look forward to a new church building.

The Christian Counter