A Church’s Final Act of Faith

In the small town of Elberta, Alabama, First Baptist Church had been in decline for decades. Despite having a beautiful building that could hold 200 people, attendance had dwindled to around 23 active members. As Pastor Mike Woods came on board, he performed an assessment that showed the church was nearing the point of no return.

Meanwhile, Pastor Mike kept noticing banners around town for The Point Church, a vibrant Southern Baptist mission church launched from a mother church in Pensacola. Pastor Mike reached out and soon realized that while First Baptist was dying, The Point represented new life and an opportunity to preserve the gospel witness in Elberta.

After fellowship services together, the congregations began to bond as long-lost cousins, rather than strangers. In early 2020, right before COVID-19 hit, First Baptist held a vote and decided to fully give their building and assets to The Point Church. This not only enabled gospel ministry to continue on the property for decades to come, but gave The Point a permanent home after having set up and torn down equipment each week.

The transition meant First Baptist Church would soon cease to exist. Pastor Mike had to help grieving members understand that this sacrifice enabled the light of Christ to keep shining in their town. Just as Jesus died so others could live, First Baptist was dying so The Point Church could thrive.

This Christ-like act took courage and vision on the part of First Baptist's leaders and congregation. As up to 5,000 churches close each year in America, stories like this reveal creative ways to pass the baton to new generations, even when it means the final service for a beloved spiritual home.