By LEIGH C. MERRIFIELD
News & Journal Editor
Coon’s Run Baptist Church, located on Adamsville Road near Shinnston, will host a celebration this Sunday, September 13th in observance of the church’s 210th anniversary! Originally organized in 1805, worshipers were country people who did not have a lot of material possessions; they were prayerful people who relied on the Lord to sustain them and fulfill their needs.
First meeting in homes and later in a log structure in a nearby field, they finally built a church facility and have occupied this same building for services for the past 200 years. Considerable refurbishing was done in 1975, and the church remains to this day very well maintained with a beautiful interior.
Through the years, Coon’s Run Baptist Church has always been blessed with good voices. At one time, in fact, their talented music department was asked to perform during inauguration ceremonies for one of West Virginia’s governors. They traveled on more than one occasion by bus to neighboring states to share their gospel music with other churches.
For many years now, they have become known as the ‘home’ of the Homecoming Choir Concerts held annually in the fall. Under the direction of Edgar Wayne Southern, they draw talented vocalists and musicians from all over north central West Virginia, and members are faithful in attending numerous rehearsals for this event which typically draws close to a thousand attendees for its two concerts. That tradition will continue this year when they Homecoming Choir presents “Loving God & Loving Each Other”. Dates will be announced at a later date.
The Coon’s Run Baptist Church congregation invites everyone to attend their 210th anniversary celebration this Sunday – including former church members, family, friends and neighbors. Worship service will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by a delicious meal in the church’s social rooms. During the afternoon, the celebration will continue with a message from Rev. Bobby Lowther, a bit of history, a memorial, recognition of Grandparents Day, and of course – music! Special music will be provided by the Gospel Harmony Boys, Christian Music Hall of Fame artists from Charleston, WV.
Consider joining this historic commemoration of 210 years of faith at Coon’s Run Baptist Church this Sunday. Their doors will open to greet you with a warm melodic welcome.
