OUR HISTORY CONT.
Through the mid and late 1970s, the
church was blessed to see people saved and lives dedicated to ministry. Pastor
Cox and the church family began building a foundation beyond just the
buildings. The hard work and love for God of the early church members has
resulted in a ministry that, for decades, has reached the community for Christ
and seen countless lives impacted.
After purchasing 14.5 acres (the
current campus location), a small temporary worship
building was constructed, and a house on the property served as the church office
and Sunday School space. Soon after, the main worship center was constructed.
In 1979 a duplex building, containing a missionary apartment was constructed
for church staff and guest missionaries. The building still stands and serves
its original purpose.
One of the defining characteristics
of FBT, since its inception, has been dedication of its members. In its eighth
year, the church was in need of expansion. At this time a new Sunday School
wing was built with more than 50% of the labor being donated by the church’s
own membership. The hard work of these men and women helped saved more than 50%
of the potential cost. Many of these faithful members still attend FBT to this
day.
Pastor Cox always encouraged the
congregation by emphasizing his most beloved quote: “The future is as bright as
the promises of God”. It was with that in mind that the church remained steadfast
in God’s work. Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s people of all ages were
drawn to the Biblical preaching and exciting ministries of FBT. Countless
strong friendships originated within the church family, and many of them
continue to this day.
In 2000, and the following year, the
church remodeled the existing auditorium and constructed the large addition of
the Family Life Center. This wing of the building includes the church offices,
Sunday School rooms, and a beautiful gym with a fully equipped stage area. The
Family Life Center serves multiple ministries throughout the year including
Sunday School, Power Hour, Upward Basketball, Banquets, and many others.
In 2022 Pastor Josh Keeny took over
the position as Senior Pastor. His passion for Jesus, the church, and
proclaiming the Gospel are a continuation of what began decades prior. For over
50 years souls have been saved and lives changed, and Pastor Josh’s vision is
that we continue to see the world impacted as a result of the work of FBT. The
church family is excited to see what God will do as we seek to fulfill His will for us. We look forward to
making history with you and your family as we serve the Lord together! The
future REALLY IS as bright as the promises of God!