Bethlehem Baptist Church in Bonham to celebrate 138th anniversary Sunday, July 26

Just looking at the booklet published in 1971 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Bethlehem Baptist Church is a glimpse into our nation's history.

The booklet opens with a note.

"Your 100th anniversary is a source of satisfaction not only to you but also to the nation whose moral fiber you have strengthened by your religious commitment."

President Richard Nixon signed the note.

The advertisements are a reminder of local history.

"Congratulations on a Christian Centennial," exclaimed the first sponsor. "May you serve Bonham in the name of Jesus Christ for hundreds of years to come."

That one was from Saunders Book Store.

Other sponsors included Bonham Savings & Loan, Chas. Carter Chevrolet - Buick, L.E. (George) Leatherwood, owner-manager of Bonham Livestock Commission, Hunts Department Store, Jelly Ford's Ladies Apparel, Bewley's, Logan Garage, Faith's Jewelry, Otasco, Ingram Cleaners, Owens Lumber Company, Joe Britton Hardware, Piggly Wiggly, Morrow Motor Company, Clayton's Grocery, Gross Feed Store and Duke & Ayres.

All those businesses are gone, but His church marches on.

Now, on Sunday, July 26, 2009, Bethlehem Baptist Church will commemorate its 138th anniversary with an afternoon service beginning at 3:30 p.m.

According to church records, the original building consisted of a log structure that was built in 1871 on property owned by Mrs. Annie Garrett between the five hundred block of Preston and Lee Street.

The current site of Bethlehem Baptist Church was purchased in 1872, although the first church building on Franklin Street was erected 52 years later in 1924 by the Missionary Society.

On March 10, 1942, Charlie Christian's funeral service was held at the Bethlehem Baptist Church. Mr. Christian, a legendary jazz guitarist born in Bonham who went on to play with the Benny Goodman Sextet, attended services at Bethlehem Baptist when he came to visit relatives in Bonham.

The church, a constant source of strength and spiritual influence in the community, was presented a Texas Historical Marker on its one-hundred-year anniversary in May of 1972.

Bethlehem Baptist Church was renovated in 1988.

The community is invited to attend Bethlehem Baptist Church on Sunday afternoon to recognize this historic achievement. Guest speaker will be Dr. Leslie Draper, lll from Tree of Calvary Baptist Church in Simmesport, LA.

Bethlehem Baptist Church 138th Church Anniversary & Homecoming

The Oldest Baptist Church in Fannin County, Texas 1871-2009

July 26, 2009 beginning at 3:30 P.M.

Guest Speaker: Dr. Leslie Draper, lll from Tree of Calvary Baptist Church in Simmesport, LA