KENT, Ohio—Grace Baptist Church celebrated 50 years of ministry this past fall. “The 50th anniversary celebration gave us an opportunity to reflect on the ways God has blessed this ministry and moved in the hearts of people since 1964,” says Pastor Bruce Chouinard. “A lot has changed in 50 years, but God’s love for Kent has been unchanging.”
Many former members joined the congregation Oct. 3–5 for fellowship and rejoicing in what God has done in and through His people. They enjoyed a casual, family-friendly dinner; a catered dinner followed by a concert featuring past and present members; and a worship service on Sunday. Special guests were the church’s three former pastors, Glen Crabb, David Bryant, and Wilbur Ellsworth, who shared their “reflections of grace” in the Sunday service.
That weekend the church also held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to dedicate its newly expanded facility. In October 2013 the church broke ground on a building project for a new auditorium, gathering space, and larger areas for children and youth. The project was finished on schedule in September 2014.
The anniversary weekend was the final event of three significant 50th anniversary celebrations for Grace Baptist. In August, the church welcomed 20 of its missionaries for a special Sunday service. Time was dedicated to reflecting on their significant partnership in the spread of the gospel in the Kent community and around the world. Since many of the missionaries had spent time as part of the Grace family, there was great joy in reuniting. In April, the church celebrated Founders Day to commemorate the actual date 50 years prior that it held its first Sunday service. A worship service included time to honor founding members and recall their vision for Grace Baptist Church. Eight of the 10 founders were in attendance, and everyone enjoyed hearing their memories.
Today Grace Baptist Church is humbled to continue on in its founders’ vision to reach Kent State University, the community of Kent, and beyond with the light of Jesus Christ.
