Russellville First Baptist celebrates 158 years
Russellville First Baptist Church (RFBC) celebrated 158 years of existence on Aug. 10. From its beginning, it has sought to glorify Christ and live out the Great Commission.
The annual RFBC Homecoming celebration welcomed many new and familiar faces. The first Homecoming celebration took place in the mid-1950s.
The church was established in 1867 in the heart of downtown Russellville. On Jan.29, 2019, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a historic landmark in Franklin County.
According to the Franklin County Baptist Association, the church established five missions in Franklin County. Through the years, it has seen a number of expansions, including an education building, new sanctuary, pastorium in 1957, memorial chapel in 1981, a new education building, gym, and fellowship hall in 1989, and a senior education addition in 2000.
The church currently occupies two city blocks and has a total membership of 750.
Dr. Joel Samuels was the guest speaker for this year’s special event. He has served as the pastor of First Baptist Church in Guntersville for more than 30 years. Pastor Chase Dowdy described him as not only a “gifted communicator,” but also “a man after the Lord’s heart.”
Dr. Samuels gave an inspiring message and stated that the 158th celebration is about what God has done for Russellville First Baptist Church.
“It’s an honor to celebrate Homecoming with your church family,” said Janice Samuels. “The worship service was beautiful, and Kelly Hindman Dowdy’s solo, ‘This Blood,’ performed with the choir, was amazing. I’m always amazed that such a strong, beautiful voice comes from a frame as small as Kelly.”
She said she and Joel were “so proud” of both Dowdy and of RFBC Music Director Garrett Booth.
“Garrett has grown up so much since the fifth grade, and he’s so talented and so genuine,” Samuels continued. “It was rewarding to hear your church family tell us how much they love you and your families. God is doing something special at RFBC.”
The church was decked out for the occasion with a beautiful live flower arrangement in the sanctuary in memory of those who have gone on before us and in honor of present members and in anticipation of the years to come. The fellowship hall was decorated with beautiful flowers and delicious varieties of home baked food.
For member Rhoda Jackson, the service really hit home.
“We really enjoyed the service,” Jackson said. “God’s message from Dr. Samuels and Kelly’s song with the choir were wonderful.”
For Pastor Dowdy, the event also made a big impact.
“More than anything, we will celebrate that the Lord is still allowing RFBC to make a gospel impact in the city of Russellville and beyond, and we will pray that the Lord will continue to use us to reach people for His name and His glory.”
