Our HISTORY

ABOUT US

Florence Baptist Temple was organized on June 24th, 1973 by Pastor Wayne Cox and his wife Sharon with a charter membership list consisting of 33 people. The church had met for several months prior in a storefront in Florence, and there were a number of Christians interested in starting a new Baptist church in Boone County. Grace Baptist Church of Middletown, Ohio, served as the “mother church” of FBT. Dr. Howard Sears was the Senior Pastor of Grace Baptist and led the organization service.

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!