The motto A Church Doing Things God's Way is the theme of the Black History Month Display at the Logan County Public Library presented by First Baptist Church, 221 S Spring Street. One part of the display showcases the foundational leaders of the church in the display titled: Remembering First Baptist Firsts – Moses Gaines, Jerry English, Dr. Raytha Yokley and others. Another part of the display highlights young black authors whose books are available for checkout at the local library. The third part of the display is filled with photos of various programs and activities enjoyed at First Baptist Church.
Part of the history of First Baptist Church is the 35-year tenure of Pastor Sammy Spencer, who retired in November 2022 after so many years of dedicated service. Troy Holbert became the pastor in July 2023.
Since that transition, the church has added a WI-FI system which enables streaming every Sunday; a Facebook page, @FirstBaptistChurchR'ville; and a church email, firstbaptistchurchrussellville@gmail.com. To provide training for our next generation in the church, every third Sunday of the month, the youth are in charge of the service. According to Beverly Terry, who spearheaded the display, "First Baptist Church is moving toward being a multicultural and multi-ethnic church."
Also for historical reference, First Baptist Church is an offspring of its parent church First Baptist Church, located at 277 S Main Street.
The display coordinator, Beverly Terry, is a member of the First Baptist Church at 221 S Spring in Russellville. She joined when she was eight years old, making her one of the oldest members to date. She is the Sunday School middle school teacher and Sunday School secretary. Beverly graduated from Western Kentucky University with an Associate Degree in Word Processing and a Bachelor of Science in Administrative Support Management. She has three children, Justin, Brandon, and Christian, who have given her eight grandchildren.
In addition to being an active member of First Baptist Church, Beverly is a member of the Logan County Public Library staff. Despite being born and raised in Russellville, before becoming the new Logan County Bookmobile Librarian, Beverly had no idea the size of Logan County. “It’s big”, she said.
Now, after 26 years as the Logan County Outreach Bookmobile Librarian and much traveling throughout the county, Beverly knows Logan County is even bigger and that much change has come.
Beverly says, “I have seen thousands of patrons over the years.The children are adults now with children, and the county is growing now.”
Change has also come to the bookmobile, which is now a very cute white van. Beverly's service to take literature into the Logan County community has been part of that change and growth.
"First Baptist Church and I were honored to be the display host to showcase Black History Month in February for the community," said Beverly.
Come and see the display at the library. Join us at First Baptist Church for service and learn not only about Black History, but also His story, “that of the saving and redeeming love of Jesus Christ.” We hope to see you soon!