Mena’s First Baptist Church developed in the late 1890’s with pioneer preachers such as Rev. H.C. Ridling. The church was organized by seven charter members who were supervised by Rev. E.S. James in February 1897. Church services were irregular until August 1897, when a missionary to the Indians, Rev. W.L. Compere, became pastor. Pastors to follow were W.L.A. Standburg, J.B. Lumbley, William C. Cooksey, J.S. Edmons, W.L. Smith, H.L. Waters, O.M. Stallings. Karl McClendon, O. R. Overton, Arlie McDaniel, Billy Walker, Dillard Miller, and Bill Bowen.
Members of First Baptist Church have structured three buildings. In 1892, a frame building was erected on the corner of 9th and Church Streets on a lot secured from the Arkansas Town site Company. Later a 24-foot addition was constructed. This building, also used as the school, served the congregation for about 12 years.
After the turn of the century, members erected a building which served them for over 50 years. Most of the materials for this church came from the old railroad roundhouse, which the church had purchased. During Rev. Overton’s pastorate, the church built two educational wings.
In 1958, the church started planning the present building. Ground breaking ceremonies were
held on May 5, 1963, and construction was underway by May 15. The building was occupied in
October 1964, and was dedicated on November, 1964, “to the glory of God, the worship of God,
and the development of the Christian life.”
First Baptist Church of Mena offers a variety of ministries of all age groups: Sunday School, Church Training, Women’s Missionary Union, Baptist Men, GA’s, RA’s, Brotherhood, Mission Friends, Adult Choir, Children’s Choir, Preschool Choir, Deaf Ministry, Van Ministry, Home bound Ministry, Wednesday Fellowship Supper, and Nursery.
Members of First Baptist find their richest fellowship among God’s people. We are thankful for God’s leadership and blessings in the past and are hopeful as we look to the future because Christ lives.
