Hello friends. This is a history of the Harding Street Church of Christ written several years ago by our dear Brother Olen Chenault. Read and enjoy the rich history of this strong faithful congregation of the Lord’s church from 1962. We plan on added to this story with more recent history as soon as we can. God bless us as we continue to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” move ever forward in the grace and the knowledge of Christ Jesus during these troublesome times. MB
A band of Christians in Morrilton met several times in September of 1962 to organize a place of worship, knowing that “except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” With this in mind this little band of Christians worked to stay true to the Bible which they used as a blueprint. Everything worked together for good. There were countless blessings along the way, and criticism that also was a blessing. Never was there a failure when the little group worked together in Christian love. For when they did their best, God helped where they were weak. Hand in hand the task of love moved forward.
The ground was purchased that contained a dwelling. “All had a mind to work.” The men worked on the building at night. The women went during the day and moved the trash, cut weeds, carried scraps of lumber, and did other chores. Soon the dwelling was ready for use. There were seventy-four in attendance at the first meeting. All were faithful on the Lord’s Day and Wednesday evening.
The group soon outgrew the small building and started making plans to build. They found that there was a building contractor that helped small band of Christians to build. This company was contacted and a contract for anew building was let. Each Sunday afternoon all who wished to go were given rides and they visited the churching buildings about our vicinity. Soon the decision was made, the type of house was selected, and now we are blessed with a comfortable building.
The new building was dedicated November 3, 1963. The house was filled with friends and people that helped support the work. Several of our group spoke, telling of growth and progress of the congregation. Brother George Benson was the main speaker at the dedication. His theme was one that encouraged the group to press onward, “looking unto God who is the author and finisher of our faith.”
Several gospel ministers came to teach and exhort those who were present. I will not attempt to name them because I may omit someone. All these men gave their services without setting a price, and the church paid as they could. Several times the amount paid them was increased as the contributions increased.
The leading was done by men who had had little or no experience in leadership. Several leaders developed, some going to other congregations. We are very proud of our young people, especially one who is now studying at Harding College. James Spence is a promising young preacher, and we believe he will become a leading gospel minister in a few years.
In 1968 a home for the preacher was purchased and more land was added to the church grounds. This band of Christians is rejoicing because they have seen so many of their dreams come true.
The church has several programs working to develop leaders. There is a Young Men’s Training Class, a Ladies Bible Class, and a zoning program for all of Morrilton.
Through all this work we have learned many lessons, one is “We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.”
Lately the congregation has selected the following men as leaders: Elders Olen Chenault, Noble Starkey, Alden Fulkerson, and Afton Flowers. Deacons – Marion Chenault, John Hammett, and Ralph Pate. Our minister is Steven H. Adams.
Dates and Events:
September 14, 1962 – The church began meeting at 906 E. Harding Street
October 5, 1962 – The church purchased a dwelling with 3 lots that this address.
November 4, 1962 – We began meeting with 55 attending Bible Class and 74 for worship. The church was led by Brothers J.C. Dawson, Phillip Fagan, Raymond Powell, and Charles Bane.
June 4, 1963 – Additional land was purchased from Hilton Watters. Bonds were sold ($45,000) to finance the building of new facility with Brother Young as head man and Brother Chenault overseeing and managing the financing. The Downtown congregation purchased the seats.
November 3, 1963 – Dr. George Benson, President of Harding College spoke at the open house services. Charles Bane dedicated the building.
September 15, 1963 – November 7, 1967 – Brother Carthel Heady was the preacher.
January 7, 1968 – May 28, 1969 – Brother Roy Henderson preached.
February 1, 1968 – The church purchased a home for the minister.
MORE TO FOLLOW…
