Ninth Article in 90 Days of Praise Series

Once our church had purchased her first organ, there arose another need---that being a choir to lead us in worship.   Thus, our music leader, Mr. Weiterhausen, informed the church that there would be an organizational meeting of those interested in singing in a choir.   At the first meeting, 10 people were present.   Believing this to be evidence of God's leadership in expanding our music program, Mr. Weiterhausen asked that the group elect choir officers.   Mr. Bud Luman, was elected president, alog with two assistants to contact each member of the congregation and enlist them in our choir program.

Stones River Baptist organized it's very first choir on October 13, 1965.   Before that meeting ended, it was also decided that there should be an intermediate choir program and that it would meet each Sunday evening at 4:00 PM, prior to the church choir practice, in order that the members of the adult choir might give direction, encouragement, and vocal leadership to our children.

Another first for our community was begun by Stones River Baptist, as we organized the first community Thanksgiving service on November 24, 1965.   That service was held at Smyrna Presbyterian Church, and is to this day rotated among the churches of our community each year to celebrate the many blessings of God during Thanksgiving season.

Due to the blessings of God and the faithfulness of our people, many souls united with the church and once more we found ourselves in need of additional space.   At the regular business meeting, March 9, 1966, it was brought to the church family's attention that Seward Air Force Base had a 20 x 60 building for sale, which could be used as a meeting place for our Sunday School primary department.   The cost would be approximately $3,000.   This would include building the foundation and moving the building to our property.

When God's people are faithful to His leadership, God always increases their number and gives the means to carry on His ministry in a mighty way.   This church time and time again has found this to be true, as by sheer faith and unflagging devotion to her mission she has endured very difficult times, yet through it all God has given her victory after victory.   I praise God that not only has His hand provided our every need in days past, but is today, and shall until the coming Christ, give us everything we stand in need of to boldly proclaim His gospel to our community and Rutherford County.   Praise be to God!
~ Brother Ross ~