Family Fellowship, a cornerstone of the Greenville, Texas community, celebrated its 100th anniversary on April 28, 2024, marking a century of faith, fellowship, and commitment to the Great Commission.
Founded in 1924 to accommodate the growing population on Greenville’s south side, the church was established with 72 charter members and a clear mission. An article in the local newspaper at the time noted, “…after much prayer, they organized a Missionary Baptist Church with 72 charter members.” From its inception, the Great Commission has been at the heart of Family Fellowship’s mission.
The centennial celebrations kicked off with a nostalgic Saturday night service at the church’s original location, where it met from its beginning until 1990. This “Old Lamar” service featured hymns and a men’s gospel quartet, with all four original members from 1980 performing together once again. The service was highlighted by a sermon from Rick Blue, the former pastor, who ironically delivered his first message as pastor at the church’s 50th anniversary.
On Sunday, the congregation gathered for two services where Paul Blue, the current pastor spoke from Philippians 1 and 3, reflecting on the church’s rich history and emphasizing the importance of looking forward. “Our fond memories of our church’s past are meant to allow us to visit the past, not live in the past,” he urged, challenging the congregation to continue the 100-year legacy of spreading the Gospel.
A new church logo was unveiled, symbolizing the church’s journey and mission. The logo features two “F’s” surrounded by a “G.” One “F” faces backward, representing the church’s history, while the other faces forward, signifying the future mission until Christ’s return. The “G” stands for Greenville, with a cross at the center, uniting past and future.
The celebrations included a catered lunch by Ernie’s BBQ, a local favorite that also catered the church’s 50th anniversary. Despite severe weather, the turnout for both services was exceptional.
In honor of its centenary, Family Fellowship made a significant impact by selecting 100 missionaries and church planters, gifting each $1,000—a total of $100,000—to support their mission work. Additionally, the church collected an offering of “100 of something,” which amounted to approximately $20,000, to bless four local organizations.
The church also recognized three long-standing members: a lady who has been a member for 70 years, a man who has attended for 80 years since birth, and another man who first attended 90 years ago and remains a cherished part of the congregation.
The 100th anniversary of Family Fellowship was a heartfelt celebration of past achievements and a powerful reminder of the church’s enduring commitment to its mission and community.