FBC finishes auditorium renovations

By Staff
Melissa Cason, Franklin County Times
For months, contractors have been working to complete a major renovation project at First Baptist Church of Russellville. Now that six months of work has come to an end, the church revealed their new sanctuary to their congregation last Sunday.
Renovations began in November, and crews put on a few finishing touches this past week, after the renovations were revealed to members, Calvin Parmer with FBC said.
"We originally wanted to be in the new sanctuary by Easter, but the date got pushed back to May 6, and then to Mother's Day," Parmer said about the progress.
Prior to the worship service, church members were given their first official chance to see the renovations.
"Some of our members did not see the renovation process at all, and they were totally shocked last Sunday," Parmer said.
This is the only major renovation of the sanctuary since the church was built, and it was the last major project for the church.
"We have done a lot of work to the church over the years which includes the Fellowship Hall, but this is the first renovation for the sanctuary," Richard Parker said at the beginning of the renovation process.
While the renovations has been a lengthy process, the church is still undergoing changes as today is the last day for Dr. Gene Balding, who is retiring after 14 years of service.
The church has begun searching for a new pastor, but the process can be lengthy.
"We expect the hiring process to take anywhere from nine months to one year before a new pastor is hired," Parmer said.
The church formed a committee to search for a new pastor, and another committee to make sure there is a sermon every Sunday until a new pastor is found, Parmer concluded.