Blackrock Baptist Church

A History of Blackrock Baptist Church

This church was birthed in prayer. In the fall of 1960, a group of people in the Blackrock Community decided they needed a Church in which to worship. They began prayer meetings in different homes.

The first meeting was held in Broward Freeman’s living room, another in J.P. Freeman’s home. Bobby Sheffield, a young minister, led the meetings. Offerings were taken and enough money was raised to purchase a large tent. In early 1961, J.P. Freeman allowed the tent to be erected on his property.

The men purchased lumber and gathered for a work day. They built benches and a raised platform for the pulpit and choir. Wade Sparkman built the pulpit. Rosie Jones bought the communion set, two offering plates, and the attendance boards for Sunday School and Training Union.

Each week the ladies furnished the flower arrangements from flowers blooming in their yards. Saw dust was hauled in for the floor. Margaret Harris brought her electric organ and played for the church services.

The first revival was held May, 1961. Charles Emory preached the services. There were approximately 40 members. Plans were made to join the Southern Baptist Convention and participate in the Northeast Florida Baptist Association.

The tent filled rapidly and offerings increased. Carl Jones donated one acre of land; lumber and blocks were purchased. In the summer of 1962 the original sanctuary was begun. The men did the work themselves, each contributing his time to the task Love and unity prevailed throughout the community because they were building a community church—a place of worship for themselves, their children, grandchildren and “who-so-ever will. . . let him take of the water of life freely” Rev. 22:17.

In 1964 the first educational wing was added. The men were working long hours so the ladies labored to put on the roof. Another debt free educational wing was completed in 1987. In 1989 our Fellowship Hall was doubled in size. The choir area was enlarged in 1991 however; we still needed more space in the sanctuary. So in 1993, the original sanctuary was renovated. The offices were moved, nine pews were added as was a foyer and a double covered drive through. Sustained growth created an ongoing need for more room. In Jan of 1996 the church purchased 2 acres of land and began building our beautiful new sanctuary. It was completed in 2002.