In as late as 1899, only five churches had Sunday Schools in the Friendship Baptist Association. Later it would become Pott.-Lincoln Baptist Association, and it was during that decade that Valley Grove Baptist Church was organized.
Two of the leaders were Christopher and Nancy Jane Blackburn who donated the land and cemetery. In 1905 the church name was changed to Blackburn Chapel Baptist Church, the year Mr. Blackburn died. Then two years later Oklahoma became a State in 1907.
The first service was held on the very site we will meet at on Sunday. They met in a brush arbor revival, but we will meet in a beautiful edifice.Their benches were homemade. Ours are padded and hold Bibles and Hymnbooks.
It was by faith and the Holy Spirit that Missions, Evangelism, Ministries and family fellowship became the heartbeat of the Church. It still is today, as waters stir baptism and salvations continue.
There are many dark pages in the history, but the positives far out shine the devilish attacks.
This is home. Here I will be buried in the cemetery behind the church, where both my brothers are buried. Here I have invested 16 and a half years of my life. Here I have led many to Christ and baptized so many saved souls.
Come celebrate this Lord’s Day with us what God has done for 125 years. There will be a meal after the morning service. Afternoon session will be testimonies and a message by Paul Calmes and the Hernandez singing. Join us in praise and gratitude. 10:45 a.m.
-Bro. Larry Sparks Pastor