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signed: Joseph Botts, John N. Fox, Thomas W. Dean, C. H. Thornton, E. A. Turner, Mary Rosson, Jane Botts, C. M. Botts, Elizabeth Brown, “Bettie” G. Fox.
The church was formally established August 2, 1852. Elder Cumberland George preached the sermon of the occasion. “In which he. ably and eloquently defended the faith, consoled the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and earnestly and affectionately warned the sinner of the wrath to come.” Joseph Botts and T. W. Dean were elected deacons, J. M. Fox as clerk. The church resolved to seek admittance ifito the Shiloh Association.
Some interesting facts are gathered from the early minutes. One of the first new members admitted was “Aunt Jinny”, a free colored woman who brought her letter of dismissal and recommendation from F.T. Church. The first new members to be baptized were G. T. Rosson and Mrs. Berry, which ordinance was administered November 24, 1852.
Elder Barnett Grimsley was dhosen as the first pastor until a permanent one could be secured. He served from 1852-1866.
We read that worship was not limited to Sundays; nor were they dependent on a minister for services. We find in the minutes of July 13, 1853, “The pastor1 being absent on account of sickness the church spent an hour in prayer.” Regular church services were frequently held'on Wednesday. Saturday morning was reserved for business meetings.
The Lord’s Supper was first observed March 30, 1853.
As early as 1855 the General Association requested the Church to subscribe to the missionary fund. Membership in the church meant more than a profession of faith. The conduct of its members .was closely watched and if one's behavior was unbecoming to a Christian he was “waited on” by a committee appointed by the church. One member was excluded in 1856, four years after he had signed the covenant and been elected deacon. In October 1857, Sister C. H. Thornton asked for a letter of dismission, giving her reason for same that she was satisfied she should commune with all Christian denominations.
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