This past November 2005 we had our 49th Anniversary Service and some founding members spoke and this is what Walter Kilby shared with us.
Reflection on our church beginnings brings to mind a number of things not revealed by the normal date and event, history.
I think of the small group of interested people who went from door-to-door in a wide area around the proposed building site, telling people of our plans for a Baptist church, and inviting them to our services in the Collegiate Avenue public school, if they were not presently attending any particular church.
It was a challenging and yet gratifying experience to see some of the people you had called on, attending our service in the following weeks. I remember one Baptist family saying they were about to join another local church the next Sunday, if we had not happened to call on them that night. That family became very active in various programs we were trying to establish. In fact, Mr. Baker became our treasurer and his wife, Evelyn, our church clerk.
I think of Anne Bullocke, who came to our first service. Anne became a Sunday School teacher, a choir member, and was also able to gather together a group of youngsters and start a junior church. One of her specialties was to make a gingerbread house every Christmas for the Sunday School.
As time went by, our Sunday School began to grow and at one time our attendance reached just over 100 children of all ages. The Christmas concert was a big event. The Sunday School room was filled with parents watching their children take part in the plays and recitations etc. that they had been listening to for the past several weeks. At the end of the evening, a bag of candy was given to each child and of course, a candy cane from Alf Chappel.
It was a wonderful time in the growth of this church.
What Stoney Creek Baptist Church means to me.
Stoney Creek Baptist Church itself is just a building. The folks sitting in the pews are the church. The building can’t tell anyone about Jesus Christ, but they can and they did.
This church has been a large part of my life for the past 48 years and has become like an extension of my family. I have met and have fond memories of many fine people, while doing the Lord’s work here. Let me tell you about a few of them.
I remember Willard Baker, now deceased, a High School Principal and our church treasurer, who had a good sense of humor. One cold wintry day several of us, including George Vinall and “trip hammer” Alfie Chappell, were laying roofing tile, when Willard shouted, “Who’s been laying tiles upside down?” Needless to say, work ceased and we began to check tiles. Of course no upside down tiles were found, and after some good-natured remarks we carried on.
May Nelson, now in a Stoney Creek nursing home, was Sunday School Treasurer for years. May took it upon herself to make fancy cloth bags for candy, to be given to the children on our Christmas entertainment nights. This was the highlight of the evening; the children looked forward to receiving a bag of candy and a candy cane from Alfie Chappell.
I think of “Big Red”, Bill Kaye, from Nova Scotia, who later became a baptized member. He was our “Jack Walker” of “yesteryear.” Bill worked at Stelco and having odd days off, always found something that needed to be done here on those days be it painting, repairing or building shelves etc.
Many others in the “Family” could be mentioned but time does not permit.
Pastor Ralph has on a number of occasions, in his sermons, stressed the values of a small church. I’m happy to say, that this church has had the pleasure of helping several of our number go into full-time ministry. Some of you may remember, Donna Chapman, Karen-Anne Fox, Lee Tuscon and Bill Wilkinson, now a missionary in Philippines.
Dave West, though not a member, spent much time in training here. Interestingly enough, we thought he was a might too shy for a minister however, he certainly proved us wrong when he preached for one of our anniversary services.
To me, Stoney Creek Baptist has always been a warm, caring church, helping those in need wherever possible, proclaiming the message of Jesus Christ in corporate and personal relationships.
In a recent conversation with George Vinall, he said, “You know, it was through “a” church we met”. That “meeting” my friends, was over 50 years ago.
May this church building here today, be a meeting place through which longtime friendships are established. First and foremost, with Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour.
Walter Kilby (founding Member)
Calendar of Events
Mark these important dates in your Calendar. Be sure to invite your family, friends and those who attended Stoney Creek Baptist Church in previous years. Keep a look out for wonderful visual presentations and displays in the Fellowship Hall. At most events refreshments will be served.
Sunday January 15th, 2006
Official Proclamation
Join us for this kick off service which will serve as the official start of a year of special events leading up to the anniversary weekend. A Town Crier will read the proclamation. Local dignitaries and politicians to bring greetings. A coffee hour will follow the service.
Friday February 17th, 2006
Family Affair Dinner and Evening of Musical Talent
Dinner will be served at 6pm. Following dinner, an evening of musical talent will take place. Register in advance. Desserts & Refreshments will be served following the concert.
Saturday March 11th, 2006
Concert with Jerry Pryde
Jerry has a tremendous musical talent & will perform a rich program of gospel music. A free will offering will be accepted. Refreshments & desserts to follow. Jerry's tapes or CD's available for purchase.
Sunday April 23rd 2006
Baptist Women's Sunday
Past & present women of the Church to be honoured. Mrs Brenda Mann, Executive Director of the BWOQ will be our guest speaker. A light lunch will be served.
May 2006
Anniversary Tree Planting
A tree planted to signify the 50th year, is presently being explored.
Saturday June 3, 2006
Strawberry Social
Planned to coincide with Flag day. Strawberries & other food will be featured. This event will serve as a community outreach to heighten awareness of the Church and what we offer.
July & August
No special events have been planned.
September 2006
Rally Sunday TBA
Sunday October 29th 2006
Old Fashion Gospel Sing-A-Long
An evening of favourite Gospel songs. Refreshments will be served.
Friday November 24th, 2006
Show, Tell & Look Ahead
An evening of reflecting on Church history, music, testimonials & looking ahead. Charter members will be honoured. Refreshments to follow.
Saturday November 25th, 2006
Anniversary Banquet
This is a significant milestone in the life of the Church. On Nov. 25th, 1956, the doors of SCBC officially opened the doors. To celebrate, a Banquet is planned at Vine Estates Banquet Center. Dr. Laurence J. Barber Director of Mission Services at BCOQ will be Keynote speaker. Tickets may be purchased later, cost to be determined.
Sunday November 26th, 2006.
Special Church Service
A re-enactment of the first Church service with Charter members is planned. Dr. L.J. Barber will be the special speaker bringing a message to challenge us for the future. A light lunch will be served on this the final day of the 50th Anniversary.