Exploring Church Histories

 

Exploring Church Histories

The sources provide information about the histories of two churches: Bethel M.E. Church and Big Spring Presbyterian Church.

Bethel M.E. Church

While the provided sources lack detailed information about the history of Bethel M.E. Church, we know that Robert Shrader and his wife donated a 1/4 acre lot for the construction of the church building near Dilley's Mill on April 26, 1877. The sources don't offer any information about the founding date, early members, or significant events in the church's history.

We also know that a church on Thoray Creek existed, whose members had, at one time, been associated with Mount Vernon, Bethel, and Zion churches. However, no specific dates are given for these associations, and the names of the original members of the Thoray Creek church remain unknown. We also don't know when this church united with Mt. Zion.

Big Spring Presbyterian Church

The sources offer a more detailed account of the Big Spring Presbyterian Church's history. Located in a community settled by people from east of the Allegheny Mountains, the church was established to address the need for a place of worship.

The history of Big Spring Presbyterian Church can be divided into three periods:

• Early Efforts (pre-1868): While the exact date of the church's founding is unclear, the sources note that there are no written records of a minister serving the community before 1868. This suggests that the community may have gathered informally for worship or relied on itinerant preachers before a formal church was established.
• Formal Organization and Early Growth (1864-1896): In 1868, Elder John Moore was appointed to engage with the people of Big Spring, while Col. A. L. Gatewood was given the task of raising funds for the church. The first service was held on June 27, 1868. Notably, the sources also mention a final service held on July 26, 1867, under the leadership of Rev. S.P. Bryon. This discrepancy in dates raises questions about the exact timeline of events during this early period. After Rev. Bryon left, the community petitioned the Presbytery to establish a church at Big Spring. The request was granted, and the church was formally organized on August 25, 1864, by Rev. J.H. Sloan. This date, preceding the first service in 1868, further complicates the timeline. J.W. McCalpin and Col. ...L. Gatewood were ordained as ruling elders, B.F. Hamilton became a deacon, and the church was named “Big Spring.” Col. ...L. Gatewood also donated the land for the church building. By 1893, the church had nineteen members but was reported vacant by 1896. This vacancy suggests a period of instability or decline during these years.
• Later Years (1931-present): The sources offer a glimpse into the church's status in the later period. From 1931 onwards, Rev. C. N. Miles served as the pastor. The church continued to operate with twice-monthly services, a membership of approximately twenty people, and a Sunday School with thirty students. It also maintained its connection with other churches through home mission groups. Notably, the church did not have a women’s organization.

Several key themes emerge from the histories of these churches:

• The Importance of Community: Both churches highlight the importance of community involvement and support. Bethel M.E. Church was built on land donated by a community member, while Big Spring Presbyterian Church was established through the collective efforts of the community, who petitioned the Presbytery for its formation.
• Role of Lay Leadership: Both churches highlight the significant role played by lay leaders. In Big Spring Presbyterian Church, individuals like Elder John Moore and Col. A.L. Gatewood played crucial roles in the church's establishment and growth, demonstrating the active involvement of community members in church affairs.
• Evolution and Change: The histories of both churches, despite the limited information, illustrate how churches evolve and change over time. Big Spring Presbyterian Church experienced periods of growth, decline, and reorganization, reflecting the dynamic nature of religious institutions.

The provided sources offer valuable insights into the history of Bethel M.E. Church and Big Spring Presbyterian Church, though the information is incomplete. Further research might reveal a more detailed and comprehensive understanding of their stories.