Church History
BAUX MOUNTAIN BAPTIST CHURCH
Convinced that a Baptist church was needed in this community, Henry Cook began services in a garage on Red Bank Road in 1954. Gentry donated property on Lake Woussicket Road. With lumber donated by area land-owners and the men of the church doing all the woodworking, finally the early church, a small cinder block building, was built and officially organi
zed February 3, 1955. History records the first baptizing as taking place at the Dan River, with thirty-two members, each dressed in white. Preacher Cook remained as the pastor until September, 1957 where he was succeeded by many other God-called pastors. Preacher Earnest Hutchings, from Gospel Light Baptist Church, became our beloved pastor in June, 1970. In the early years, charter member Bobby Brown, a faithful friend and brother in Christ was a pillar of faith and stability as the church moved from one pastor to another. His love and dedication to the Lord helped sustain the church through each difficult time of transition. Bobby went home to be with the Lord September 7, 1988. Sharing Brother Maxie Smith’s burden to start a Bus Ministry, the church purchased the first bus in 1972. Maxie worked faithfully as a bus captain for many years and this ministry continued to grow for many years. New construction began of the present church building in 1975 and the dedication service was held on August 1, 1976. A Fellowship Building was added in 1978. Children’s Church was started in 1979 with Bob Jeune and Mary Ann Harger taking leadership roles. Their love for children and desire to see them come to know Christ as Lord and Savior is shown through their lively and captivating lessons. In 1983, the AWANA Program was added and is instrumental for children to learn Bible Scripture memorization, earn awards and even college scholarships. The Teen Church was organized in 1995 to help our young adults resist the temptations of the world and to prepare them as future leaders of our church and community. Smith became the first Assistant Pastor in 2001. Pastor Hutchings retired after thirty-four years of faithful service having suffered a heart attack in 2003 that resulted in life changing health problems. He went on to be with our Lord June 10, 2009. Our church was blessed to have this man of God for so many years and we are truly thankful for his sacrifice and service to us all. After Pastor Hutchings retirement, Mark J. Smith pastored the church from August of 2004 until October of 2022. We are blessed to have our current Pastor, W. Robert Collins and have continued to grow with additional ministries in the church. At the present, we are supporting many missionaries, have a jail ministry, nursing home ministries, a tract ministry, street preaching ministry and the Master Clubs program for our youth.
“Members of Baux Mountain Baptist Church look back and thank God for His many blessings. We also look eagerly toward the future, seeking God’s guidance as we attempt to do great things in His name.”
