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Ridgeway Baptist Church in Paige has shared the Gospel with its congregants for 40 years.
Long story short
During a July 13 service, Pastor Jack Gilmore celebrated that milestone.
“I truly believe that when the founders started this church June 2, 1985, they wanted to see the love of Jesus Christ through this community,” he said. “What better way to start a church than in a community where it is needed?”
How we got here
Gilmore highlighted how Ridgeway Baptist Church filled a void, as there was a nearly 30-year absence of a venue where residents could worship.
“The original Ridgeway was founded in 1870 and the first building was built,” he said. “Sometime between 1870 and 1927, the second building was built, because the first one was lost in a fire. In 1937, that second building burned down. A third building was built in 1937 and it stands today.”
Services, Gilmore noted, were held at that third site until 1957, when Ridgeway shuttered its doors.
“Then in 1985, Bill Bryant decided to start a church called Ridgeway Baptist Church,” he said.
The outlook
Gilmore called the 40 years that have followed an amazing legacy and relayed his gratitude for Bryant and all of the other pastors who have preceded him.
“Many amazing people have stepped foot in this church,” he said. “What an amazing honor it is for me to be able to be the pastor of this church. It’s not just a job. It’s a calling. It’s an honor every single day to know that these people laid the foundation for me.”
Gilmore, who reflected on his countless memories at Ridgeway Baptist Church, emphasized his excitement for the years to come.
“Don’t let 2025 be the year that this church closes,” he said. “We continue on, and we’re hoping our grandkids continue that legacy.”
