The Journal-Record - Bicentennial Edition
Thursday, July 1, 1976
Section B, Page 6

THE HISTORY OF MT. OLIVE FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH

The history of the Mount Olive Free Will Baptist Church dates back to the
year 1882, thus giving her almost a century of spiritual ministry in this
community.

It is determined that at least eight people made u the charter membership
of the church. they were Rev. and Mrs. W. A. NELSON, Mr. and Mrs. James
BURLESON, Mr. and Mrs. G. W. WESTBROOKS, and Mr. and Mrs. A. J. WESTBROOKS.
Rev. W. A. NELSON served as the first pastor of the new organization.

Four buildings have housed the congregation through the ninety-two years of
history. The first building was erected of wood in 1882, on land donated by
A. J. WESTBROOKS. This building was later replaced by another frame
building. In 1952, a brick structure, with a fell basement was erected.
(This building is presently used as the educational building.) In the late
sixties, the present sanctuary was erected under the pastoral leadership of
Rev. James PITTMAN.

In the early sixities(sic), under the leadership of Rev. Billy Ray SMITH, a
three bedroom parsonage was added to the church property. The entire church
is free of indebtedness, with the exception of a small amount owed on
recent inprovements(sic).

Ministers have gone forth from the Mount Olive Church, to serve in their
respective fields. Rev. Dave FRANKS is presently serving as Missionary to
Brazil. (His wife and children are with him on the mission field.)

A number of pastors have served during the long history of this church,
whose service and influence is highly esteemed. The present pastor,
Reverend Woodrow MATTHEWS, assumed the pastorate in February, 1973.

This church is affiliated with the National Association of Free Will
Baptist - supports the denomination work, and endeavors to be evangelistic
in the total church programs.