First Baptist Celina has experienced “150 years of God’s faithfulness 1874-2024”! As they remember the past, celebrate the now, and look forward to the future, let’s dive into what the Lord has done over the years. Since opening their doors 150 years ago, they have been under the provision of God. Not many churches can say that they have been earnestly seeking after the Lord and His heart for 150 years, but First Baptist in Celina (FBC) can attest to that. They have seen the Lord‘s faithfulness and goodness displayed throughout their many years of ministry. In a dwelling place that many call home lies a message of history, a reminder of God‘s faithfulness, and the hope of a great future.
The First Baptist Church was first organized on December 12, 1874. Through a group meeting of 12 charter members, history was made. In 1882, the same 12 built a church building just three miles east. At that time, the church was known as “Crossroads Baptist Church of Christ” and in 1902, the town of Celina moved two miles south of what we know today. When the church moved into town, that is when it became “First Baptist Church of Celina”. Fast forward to 1986, FBC was established off of HWY 289 (which is where it stands to this day).
Throughout FBC‘s 150 years, two things have remained the same, God‘s faithfulness and the sacrifices of His people. “To celebrate 150 years means that God is so faithful. Through the years, His provision, His wisdom, guidance and leading us…that is why this church has remained in this community and serving this community because we serve a great and awesome God” says Valerie Carey, a staff member at First Baptist. Because of the faithfulness of our Lord, and His provision, celebrating 150 years means a lot to not only the staff, but the congregates as well. At FBC, the warm, welcoming community and the peace of God are evident. The Holy Spirit has found a dwelling place in FBC - and not just in the physical building, but in the lives of His people. “God’s hand is in it, and is still in it,” stated a member of the 150th Anniversary Committee. FBC is the evidence of Psalm 90:1 “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations”. Throughout the years the Lord has graced them with the provision to come alongside the people of Celina - to grow with them, help them in their time of need, and raise the next generation all for God’s glory.
FBC is a cross-generational church that is pastored by Pastor Kevin Lykins. Here is where each generation is met by the love of Jesus. Throughout the years, the people of FBC have noticed that “the older need the energy and excitement of youth, and youth need the wisdom and knowledge of the older folks” as stated by a serving member of the staff. Each generation is cared for, loved on, and treated like family - because in the kingdom of God, we are all family. Being family is a glimpse of heaven and what is to come. Family, community, and home are all aspects of FBC. This is truly a place where anyone, even from different walks of life can come together under one name - Jesus and find the truth that brings life. You don’t have to have it all together, and you don’t have to have all of your ducks in a row to experience the power and the love of Jesus. So if you have any needs at all, reach out to First Baptist Church Celina.
Along with where they have been and where they are headed, missions have been a core aspect of their 150 years, with local outreaches and missions in Mexico, Africa, and Alaska, FBC is living on a mission to be the hands and feet of Jesus, by impacting the world for His glory through local and global missions. Reaching a lost world that needs Jesus.
When asked where FBC is going in the future, what stood out was this. FBC wants to be a church that people not only see as a building, but as a community. They would love to see their doors swing open wide for people who are craving Jesus. FBC is ready to meet the spiritual needs of those who move to Celina. FBC welcomes you to come and see, and experience the love of Jesus, their doors are always open to you. The church is not just a building, but a community - a community that is always there, ready to welcome you with open arms, cheer you on, and be close in the trials. The community at FBC would like for you to know that you are welcome here! Celina matters, and to the people who need that reminder, come and see what the Lord has done and is doing in the community through FBC.
Celebrating what He's done and what He's going to do in the future because the Lord is already there - Here’s to 150 more!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Join FBC on Tuesdays for pickleball and Thursdays for basketball
“Midweek Bible Study” starts January 15th
Sunday service at 10:50 am
GET CONNECTED:
FirstCelina.org
972-382-3171
info@firstcelina.org
841 N Preston Rd. Celina, TX 75009