History of Bear Cove Baptist Church
1911 – 2011
The familiar community schoolhouse, located on what is now Clay
Holman Road, served as the first gathering place for the group of
Christians living in the Bear Cove Community in the late 1800s.
Preaching services were conducted on a monthly basis, usually
the first Sunday of the month.
Bro. Logan Hensley, of Board Valley, was a well-known man of
God and became the regular preacher in 1896. One, then
“young” lady, doesn’t remember his messages, but she vividly
remembers his shiny cuff-links loudly jingling as he would swing
his arms in the air proclaiming the Word of God with great fervor.
Although the adults enjoyed hearing the Word preached by Bro.
Logan, they all agreed it would be a blessing to the children if they
could have a Sunday School class. Ella Snodgrass, the county
school superintendent, and James Jaco, the county sheriff (the
Jacos lived where Opal Swift now lives), were the key people
responsible for organizing the Sunday School. Classes met once a
month on Sunday afternoon…and what a happy group of
youngsters it was that gathered on the schoolhouse stage for
their Bible class!
As records have been destroyed over the years, all charter
members’ names are not available, but records do indicate the
following people had their names on the membership role from
1886 – 1905: Pauline Hudgens, B.S. Phifer, Ruth Phifer, Roshia
Sievers, U.S. Sievers, Mollie Fisk, W.J. Lamb, Flim Baker, and F.W.
Alley.
Three elderly men were appointed as deacons and they were men
who had a strong faith in the Lord, but did not believe in nonsense
and foolish behavior. When a member of the congregation
needed to be disciplined, they did not hesitate in the least. One
young woman was put out of the church for dancing.
A rule the church abided by was stated by Pastor G.B. Brown in
1904: “No complaint shall be brought in the church against
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transgressing members until the aggrieved party complies with
the direction given by our Lord in St. Matthew 18:13-17. It shall
be the duty of the deacons to go to the transgressing members
and talk to them, admonish them, and they shall have until the
second church meeting to make reconciliation. It may be the duty
of churches to choose a committee to settle questions of
aggrieved causes.”
Many times the schoolhouse was filled to capacity, especially
when friends and neighbors from the Rose Chapel Methodist
Church in the Lamb Community attended. A member who
attended services in the school building recalls the first shouting
service she attended. Several people got filled with the Spirit and
well into the service a little lady really got happy. She was
dressed in an ankle-length dress with a matching blue calico
bonnet. (Modesty required the women and girls secure their long
dresses to their cotton stockings with safety pins.) She recalls the
little lady shouted, “Hold my bonnet, hold my shawl, I believe to
my God, I can out jump them all.”
The people of the community were grateful to have a place to
occasionally hold services, but a school building really was not
functionally adequate to meet the needs of a community church.
There was no place for weddings or funerals, and school desks
just were not made for adults.
Another unsatisfactory factor was lack of discipline on the school
grounds. Evening services were almost impossible to have due to
rowdy men and boys on horseback causing all kinds of
disturbances. This problem in particular started the members
talking and dreaming of a real church building and an organized
program that could reach out to others in the community. For
almost two decades, the schoolhouse was a make-shift church
building and God surely had in store greater things for His people!
In the summer of 1910 an enthusiastic brush arbor meeting was
held beneath a grove of large sycamore trees on a corner piece of
land owned by Mr. and Mrs. Landon Swift. Ten people accepted
Christ during this endeavor and interest for God’s work was at an
all-time high.
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These ten new members were baptized on a Sunday afternoon in
the large pond of Mr. G.W. Sievers. Attending the baptizing was a
group of black people who were gathering at the Lee Cemetery,
which is located a short distance from the Sievers. Their respect
for a baptizing was so great, they delayed the burying of a dear
loved one in order to witness the baptizing. Many from the
baptizing joined their black brethren for the burial service
afterwards.
Soon after the brush arbor meeting, these God-fearing, energetic
people realized the timing was right; and their desires were so
strong for a “meeting house,” as it was called in the early 1900s,
that the decision was made to build. God has always supplied His
people’s needs and on October 22, 1910, the Landon Swift family
deeded one-third acre of land, the same location of the brush
arbor meeting, to Bear Cove Free Will Baptist Church.
Landon and Effie Swift
Everyone started working. The Sievers brothers, Guy and Liss, cut
timber off their land for the framing and donated it toward
construction of the building. Mr. Flim Baker, a sawmill owner,
gave the flooring, ceiling, and weatherboarding.
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Flem and Florida Swift Baker
Mr. John Webster and young son, Joe (Hillard Webster’s
grandfather and father) brought their mule and scoop and leveled
the foundation site for the new building. Although the Websters
were Methodists, they were living at the Baker place, which was
close to the church, and they, too, worked like beavers helping
construct the church building.
John Webster
All those working on the first church building worked under the
supervision of Mr. Walter Houston. Most of the labor was free
and many worked late afternoons and on Saturdays. The building
was completed in the fall of 1911 and what a beautiful addition it
made to the Bear Cove Community.
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Standing in the once vacant corner lot was a nice, large, white
building consisting of a big auditorium with a spacious vestibule
entrance allowing people to enter the main auditorium from two
large aisles. To make the building complete, attractive and useful,
a graceful steeple, which housed the community’s first and only
bell, was included in construction plans. It was a large and most
unusual bell that had been used in Burroughs Mills which was
located near the Old Factory Dam. Its use there was a signal bell
for starting time, dinner time, quitting time, and emergency calls.
Installing the bell was a difficult task for Mr. Houston and his
helpers, but it was accomplished and it truly was the added touch
to a fine building. Every Lord’s day, the bell pealed a melodious
sound summoning worshippers. The entire community was
thrilled beyond words!
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Charter members of this congregation included Mr. and Mrs.
Landon Swift, Bro. and Mrs. Bill Swift, Bro. and Mrs. Jim Swift,
Mary Kent, and deacons, Liss Siever, R.F. Baker, and E.W. Alley.
J.D. and Annie Swift
Bro. L.F. (Fate) Smith served as pastor during construction of the
church building. He hailed from Pleasant Hill, Tennessee, where
he operated a small store. Bro. Smith would catch the train down
on Saturday afternoon, have services Saturday night, spend the
night with church friends, and preach again on Sunday morning.
These services were conducted monthly. The year of 1911 Bear
Cove had 21 professions of faith and paid Bro. Fate a salary of
$21.10. Total membership reached 78.
The church was a member of the Western Division of Stone
Association of Free Will Christian Baptist Church of Christ, along
with 21 other churches. Bro. J.T. Stone of Bloomington Springs,
TN, was serving as moderator, and Bro. G.D. McReynolds of
Cookeville was clerk.
Stone Association added the name Free Will about the turn of the
century. The following story was told by some preachers of Stone
Association. Around 1900, a visiting young stranger appeared at
an annual associational meeting. He was well dressed and made
quite an impression on those present. The young man announced
he was a Free Will Baptist, and when called upon to speak, he did
it so tactfully and well that he won the confidence of the
association completely. He then suggested to the association
that, in view of a fuller outlook and wider fellowship, the
association should adopt the name Free Will.
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Bear Cove hosted this associational meeting in October 1911, one
month after completion of the new building. Messengers from
the church were J.D. Swift, U.S. Sievers, and Seth Hudgens.
Twenty-one other churches were represented from Putnam,
Smith and White counties. They came by horse and buggy and
Bear Cove members furnished sleeping places for all visiting
messengers. The meeting lasted two whole days and meals were
served on long prepared tables underneath the big sycamores.
Mr. and Mrs. Sievers
In 1913, Bro. E.W. Stone became the pastor. Messengers to the
association that year were W.C. Swift, J.D. Swift and U.S. Sievers.
Bear Cove reported 5 professions of faith and paid the pastor
$60.15.
Some of the members at this time included Mr. and Mrs. W.L.
Dunn, Florida Baker, Obe Hudgens, Annie Swift, Alice Burden,
Josie Lamb, Willie Anderson, Bertha Thurman, Escle Swift, Kate
Powell, Mattie Goff, John Bohannon, Seth Hudgens and Mrs. Joe
Webster
Mr. and Mrs. W.L. Dunn
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n 1918, the Tennessee Baptist Convention was meeting at
Shelbyville. A telegram, dated November 13, 1918, was sent from
Stone Association of Free Will Baptists requesting the convention
to take formal action in admitting them into the convention. The
matter was referred to the Committee of Resolutions which
recommended the association be given a hearing the following
year. Thus, in 1919, the convention voted to accept Stone
Association as part of the Tennessee Baptist Convention. Bear
Cove Church, having been a member of this group of churches, is
now a member of the Tennessee Baptist Convention.
Everyone looked forward to the biggest day of the year, Children’s
Day. This annual event was an all-day affair with preaching in the
morning, dinner on the ground at the noon hour, and the special
surprise was the program presented by the children in the
afternoon. There would be plays, recitations, pantomimes, and
lots of singing. People from all walks of life and from all over the
county would be present. Almost everyone from the mining
towns would attend.
Records do not show how long Bro. Stone pastored the church,
but in 1916, Bro. Fate Smith was again the pastor. Church
membership was 96 and delegates to the association were Clint
Haston and Charlie Marsh.
Mrs. Sallie Webster recalled moving to White County in 1913 and
began attending church shortly thereafter. Bro. Dock Brown from
Board Valley was the pastor. In 1918, while Bro. Sut Clouse was
helping Bro. Brown hold a revival, several people made
professions of faith and joined the church, including Mrs. Sallie.
The whole group was baptized in Town Creek on a Sunday
afternoon.
Mrs. Sallie shared one very unusual event that took place in the
early days of Bear Cove Church…and that was about the one and
only pie supper. She remembered that many thought it was
terrible for a church to be having a pie supper. However, a friend
of hers encouraged her to bake a pie. So together they prepared
their pies, decorated the boxes with flowers, and went to the
affair. Mr. Joe, her husband, was working and unable to attend.
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She overheard a neighbor make the statement, “Well, I never
heard of a married woman taking a pie to a pie supper.” She said
she would never forget that event, and she could not remember
the purpose for the pie supper funds.
Joe and Sallie Webster
Bro. Sut Clouse pastored the church in 1919. Active deacons
serving then were Mr. Landon Swift, Mr. F.M. Baker and Mr. Liss
Siever. Seven additions were added to the church by baptism.
1920s
Mrs. Anna Ruth Johnson recalls walking to church with her
parents when she was only five years old. The road they traveled
was very muddy when hard rains would come. The family would
carry an extra pair of shoes and change just before reaching the
church building, having hidden their muddy ones behind a big oak
tree close to the church house. As time went on, they would
sometimes ride horseback rather than walking. She remembers
the greatest scare of her young life when one Sunday morning
something or someone excited her horse and there she was
astride a run-away horse not knowing what to do. Some kind
gentleman came to her rescue and to him she would forever be
grateful.
Mrs. Johnson related another story that made Bear Cove Church
outstanding in her mind concerning a young man named Alonzo
(Judge). His mother made the statement long before Anna Ruth
had really met Judge that she would give him to her for a
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husband. Little did she realize that one day that very thing would
become a reality.
Judge remembered that, as a small boy when Sunday morning
rolled around, the children in his family could hardly wait to go to
Sunday School. Although they lived just a few yards from the
church building, his mother would never let them leave the house
until the church bell rang the first time. The bell sounded three
times before services started.
On top of the tall steeple were inscribed the initials, FWBC, which
of course represented Free Will Baptist Church. The pastor then
was Bro. Suttle Clouse. One sunny day, a young man was looking
up at the letters and said, “That stands for Fare Well Bro. Clouse.”
It was humorous until he turned around and discovered Bro.
Clouse, standing right behind him, had heard every word.
Bro. Virgil Jernigan served the church as pastor following Bro.
Clouse and a few years later, 1926-1928, Bro. Clouse was again
pastor of Bear Cove Church. Messengers to the association in
1928 were Maude Baker and Effie Swift. Members joining in the
1920s included Anna Ruth Johnson, Kittie F. Carson, Jessie J.
Frasier and Thelma J.H. Wallace.
Most of the early baptisms took place at Town Creek or in local
large ponds. When Mrs. Kittie Fisk Carson was baptized, Bro. Sut
Clouse told her he was going to put her to the bottom…and he
did! Someone in the crowd said, “My, doesn’t she look happy.”
They didn’t know what he had just told her.
In 1929, the pastorate changed and Bro. W.N. Selby of Cookeville
became the spiritual leader. According to early records, the
church property was valued at $1,500. Sunday School enrollment
was 98 and the pastor received almost $60 for his yearly salary.
Messengers to the association were Ted Baker, W.S. Siever,
Overton Swift, and Charlie Alley. Bro. Selby was at Bear Cove for
four years.
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1930s
In 1932, a total of $170.75 was paid out for all expenses, including
the pastor’s salary.
Bro. G.E. Pennington of Lebanon, TN served the church as pastor
in 1933. This was the first year that a gift to missions was
recorded. A balance in the year’s budget showed $80.85.
Christmas time was always an exciting time at church because of
the annual Christmas program. In early days, Mrs. Kittie Carson
remembers they would have to ask the law to come, as there
were usually a few drunks and firecracker shooters. The programs
were given at the church building by the Bear Cove school
children. The church was much larger and had better seating.
One Christmas, just a few minutes before the program was to
begin, the law called Mrs. Carson to the back of the building. He
told her to hold up the program until he returned. He had to take
a man to jail - the man had 14 half-pints of whiskey with him!
Another Christmas, a man, who was also a minister, brought his
children to the program but waited on the outside. He believed it
was wrong to have any type of program at church. Still another
Christmas, several were already gathered for the program and it
was really raining. The children ran to tell Mrs. Carson that there
was a stranger sitting in the back. After talking with the stranger,
he was invited to come up closer to the fire (the pot-belly stove in
the center of the building). While the Bible story about the birth
of Christ was being read, she saw tears running down his cheeks.
Later, he thanked her for letting him warm himself and said it had
been many a year since he had heard that story read.
The Baptist One Hundred Thousand Club was adopted in 1933 and
its purpose was to enroll one hundred thousand people, each
paying one dollar monthly above their regular contribution to the
Cooperative Program for the purpose of liquidating the debts of
Southern Baptists. It was agreed that every penny would be
applied to the principle. Bear Cove joined this club and several
members were faithful contributors to this cause. The WMU of
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the convention promised to raise one million dollars by 1945 to
be applied to the debt. It was reported the goal was surpassed.
Bear Cove’s pastor form 1934-1946 was Bro. W.M. Beasley from
Brotherton. In 1934, the church gained 12 members and gave
almost $100 to missions.
Bro. C.D. Tabor, also of Brotherton, succeeded Bro. Beasley as
pastor in 1937. Records state those representing the church at
the annual association were Mrs. Fate Johnson, Anna R. Johnson,
and Bro. Tabor. The following year, 1938, a church letter was sent
to the association but no messengers were represented.
The year 1939 saw yet another pastor for the church, Bro. William
Haynie of Sparta. Church membership was 104 and Sunday
School enrollment had dropped to 74. That year the church
baptized 9 new members. Messengers to the association were
Herman Frasier, Anna R. Johnson, and Alton Bennett. Members
who united with the church in the 1930s were Mary Nell Erwin,
Cora M. Johnson, Eva Dell Selby, Edith Bell Sherrell, Herman
Frasier, Luther Frasier, Arthur Frasier, Hazel Frasier, Sherman and
Clydell Cope, and Paul and Florida Goff.
1940s
Herman and Jesse Frasier, Clarice, Betty, Norma, and Larry
Bro. Oscar Nelson held a revival in October of 1940, the same
month that Bro. Jim Robinson began his pastorate, which lasted
through 1948. The fifth Sunday in March, 1941, the church met in
conference and ordained Herman Frasier as a deacon, in the
presence of Bro. Robinson, Moderator, Bro. Stephenson of
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Cookeville, and Bro. Dewey Tabors of Brotherton. Herman served
with the other two active deacons, Mr. Guy Sievers and Mr. Fred
Evans. The church made an offering to Stone Association, its first
on record since joining the association. Sunday School expenses
amounted to $17.36.
Bro. Jim Robinson made lots of friends. He had a personality and
a smile that could win your confidence quickly. The one bad habit
Bro. Jim had that did not always please everyone was his pipe
smoking. He would arrive at church early and delighted in sitting
around the old stove, talking with the early arrivals and smoking
his pipe.
During a revival in 1942, Mrs. Kittie Carson and her mother, Mrs.
Mollie Fisk, invited Bro. Jim and the song leader to supper. They
prepared a luscious meal and waited…no one came. That night at
the revival service, they inquired as to why they did not come and
eat. They had forgotten who had invited them and told them
they would be there the next night. They came…but no supper
was prepared! It took some hustling around but soon a fire was
going in the cook stove, hot biscuits were baking and a grand
supper was enjoyed by all!
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The forties were very hard years. The war had taken its toll, the
great depression was still felt, and many items could not be
purchased without stamps. However, the church continued to
grow and in 1946, electricity was run to the church building at a
cost of $63.03. Wow! What a difference lights made in the
auditorium. It took a while to get used to doing without the
Aladdin lamps that lined the walls…and no one had to come early
in the summer months to see that enough oil was in the lamps.
Of course, someone still had to arrive early in the winter to start
the fire. The last oil purchased for those lamps was in 1946 and
five gallons were purchased for $1.15. Total membership was 136
and the Sunday School averaged 93. Church expenses amounted
to $519.
Peggy Johnson, Billy Swift, Clarice Frasier, Mary Ruth Erwin, Betty Fraiser,, Mary Nell Erwin
The most exciting times in the church during the forties were
the summer Vacation Bible Schools. They were held after 3:00
pm as soon as school was dismissed. The VBS would last two
whole weeks. All the children who were allowed to attend would
march down the “church-house lane” to the church building…and
there would be a GIANT COOLER of ice water on the back of a
pick-up truck and some tiny little paper cups. The children, hot
and tired, were not used to ice water, much less paper cups. It
was great! Bro. John Brown of Cookeville probably never knew
the excitement and joy he brought to that group of children. He
was in charge of the VBS and could make the Bible stories so
interesting, taught the most spirited songs, played the funniest
games, and made VBS the happiest time in many kids’ lives. If a
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church sponsored the school or if he just took it upon himself to
do that type of ministering, it certainly was well worth it. Only
heaven will reveal its results. In 1945, there were 55 children
enrolled in Vacation Bible School.
The years of 1947-1949 were productive years for the church.
The first WMU was organized, with Mrs. Effie Swift serving as
president. Mr. Walter Hudson succeeded Herman Frasier as
Sunday School superintendent and messengers to the association
were Lorene Swift, Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Carter, Landon Swift and Guy
Siever. Two additional deacons were ordained during this time
period: Luther Frasier and Candler Erwin. There was a little
controversy over Bro. Jim Roberson not being selected to return
to Bear Cove for the ninth year and the church lost two or three
families to other churches.
In 1949, Bro. I.G. Rogers from Algood, TN became Bear Cove’s
pastor. Bro. Rogers was the most humble man of God the church
had ever known. Seldom could he stand in the pulpit to proclaim
the message without shedding tears. God gave this country
preacher the kindest and most tender heart of any man in
Tennessee. He pastored the church only two years, but he made
lifelong friends and gave much stability to the people. Bro. Rogers
also led the church to begin having preaching services bi-monthly.
The children of Herman and Jessie Frasier vividly remember Bro.
Rogers. He was a guest in their home many, many times…and
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believe it or not, adults in those years ate before the children. To
those children, it seemed the adults could sit at the table and chat
forever. When they finally would finish, the food would be cold
and nothing left of the chicken but the gizzard and wings. Sunday
dinner had lost its appeal. As kids, they would always be glad
when the preachers dined with someone else.
1950s
Bro. Rogers resigned as pastor in the fall of 1950.
Membership was 130 and Sunday School was averaging over 100.
WMU membership was 15 and messengers to the association
were Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Frasier, Lela Siever, and Anna R.
Johnson. Mission gifts were $122.
Bro. Henry Robinson, brother to Mr. Jim, became Bear Cove’s next
pastor. He lived in Algood and served the church only one year.
During this year, a BTU was organized, with Candler Erwin serving
as president. The Baptist Training Union provided a different
aspect of church guidance. Those attending were divided into
two separate groups and the groups alternated on a weekly basis
presenting the evening study. Each group had a program
chairman, Bible quiz leader, and a sword drill leader. Everyone
participated, and the people grew in numbers and in knowledge
of church doctrine. Not until 1958 did the church begin having
various age groups in BTU, and everyone missed the old of
studying.
Frances Frasier, Ruth
Frasier, Peggy Holman,
Nellie Rhea Carter,
James Cunningham,
Bill Swift, 2 Carmen
girls, Mary Ruth Erwin
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Bro. Oliver Lane became pastor in 1951 and served the church
two years. Membership and Sunday School ran about equal at
138. It was during this period of time that the members started
talking about either building a new church building or completely
renovating the old one. The wooden structure had been standing
forty years and was in bad need of extensive repair. The decision
to rebuild was decided, and, in early 1952, the first landmark of
Bear Cove Baptist was torn down for a new structure to begin.
Back to the school building went the people to worship. Only this
time the building had a hard time holding the congregation.
Sparta Planing Mill was awarded the construction contract and
with some volunteer labor by members, the building was
completed in July of 1953. It was a brick structure with a small
classroom on each side of the auditorium. However, the building
was without a steeple, and there was no place to hang the big
church bell. It was sold to a local doctor, Dr. Buford Roberts, who
collected antiques.
Dedication services for the new building were held May 29, 1955.
The pastor was Bro. J.T. Henry. Bro. Gard Green of Monterey
preached the dedication message, and the building was filled for
this special occasion.
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Jackie Frasier, Reba
Frasier, Garry Parker,
Norma, Carolyn, Doris ,
Harold, Glen, and Larry
Frasier, Ruby Maynard,
Lucille Roberts, Bobbie Sue
Frasier, Lois Frasier, Vergie
Maynard
In 1955, the WMU president was Mrs. Hazel Frasier; Sunday
School superintendent was Alfred Parker, Jr.; membership was
145 and the pastor’s salary was $1,344. Two additional deacons
were ordained to serve the church: Stancel Stewart and Bill Evans.
Following Bro. Henry, Bro. L.W. Lee did interim work and in
October of 1955, Bro. Kenneth Blaylock came to Bear Cove as
pastor. His pastorate only lasted one year.
In October of 1955, at the 110th session of Union Baptist
Association, a letter was read requesting admission into Union
Baptist Association because of the distance required traveling to
meetings in Stone Association. Upon the motion and second, it
was voted that Bear Cove be received and that their messengers
be seated as voting messengers and members of Union
Association. Those messengers were Herman Frasier, Stancel
Stewart, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Parker, Anna Ruth Johnson and Lela
Siever.
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Bro. and Mrs. Grady Craddock
July 17, 1957, was a red-letter day for the church. Bro. G.A.
Craddock was called to be the church’s full-time pastor.
The church had never needed local housing for the pastor’s
family until now and it took the committee working overtime
trying to find something suitable for the church to rent or lease.
Finally, a house was rented on West Broad and Bro. and Mrs.
Craddock along with Uncle Bill, Bro. Craddock’s brother, moved in.
Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Parker had been very kind and generous by
insisting they stay with them until proper housing was found.
Never had the old house had such a face lifting. After the
cleaning, remodeling, painting and fixing up, mostly by Mrs.
Craddock, a house became vacant on Gaines Street which was
much closer to the church. So another move was made and once
again Mrs. Craddock ran around for 6 months with paint brush in
hand and the sewing machine ran overtime redoing curtains. An
immaculate housekeeper who loved pretty things and lots of
green plants was a vivid description of Mrs. Craddock. She was a
grand worker in the church, organizing the first Girls in Action
(GA’s) for girls age 6-11. Their first meeting was on January 8,
1958, at 3:00 pm. This was a good meeting time, just after school
was dismissed. The girls would walk down from school, have their
meeting, and Mrs. Craddock would take them home. In a short
time, eleven girls had been enrolled in the GA program.
The church started a weekly bulletin, but it took several people
and lots of stops before it was finished. Bro. Craddock would edit
it, H.L. Kirby would stop by his home and take it to Stanton Hale’s
office where his secretary and Bear Cove Church member, Janevia
Dodson, would cut a stencil. H.L. would pick it up on Saturday
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afternoon and run them off on the church’s mimeograph
machine. Many times there was more ink on him than on the
machine. One Sunday, the church bulletins almost didn’t make it.
H.L. and Norma went fishing early Saturday morning and the
church bulletin stencil was forgotten until about 9:00 pm and the
Kirbys were in the middle of Center Hill Lake. Talk about some
hustling getting away from the lake and finding someone to
unlock Mr. Hale’s office. But, come Sunday, no one, not even the
preacher, knew the anxious moments that had prevailed the night
before. And the string of fine fish that had been caught were
happy. They were left in the water due to the hasty departure of
the fishermen.
Janice Pedigo, Pam Stewart, Norma Frasier, Jr. Pedigo, Benda Frasier, Wanda Frasier,
Mary Jane Pedigo, Jeanette Parker, Clarice and Stancel Stewart
Usually, on Saturday nights, while the ink was drying on the
bulletins before folding, was when the church building received a
little cleaning and dusting by the Kirbys. Sometimes, John and
Oma Eldridge would stop by and help and on several occasions,
Clarice and Stancel Stewart would lend a helping hand. The Kirbys
did this for several years, but when the church voted to pay them
$12 a month, it was never quite as enjoyable. A short time
thereafter, they thought it best for the church to hire someone
else to do the cleaning. Walter and Thelma Hudson cleaned the
church for several years.
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Bro. Craddock organized the Sunday School into departments and
began a program of teaching and training church wide. The
church had never experienced an extensive training program in
the past and the people were truly blessed by the leadership
ability of the pastor and the fine group of state workers who came
to lead the church in a week long training program.
Members of the church learned that the school at Hickory Valley
was about to lose their hot lunch program because of finances. A
love offering was received and then the congregation voted to
send a check each month to help this particular school program.
Russell Pedigo, a Sunday School teacher, encouraged his class to
start a campaign to receive funds for a new piano for the
auditorium. The people really responded and, in a very short
time, the church had a new piano and to this day, that piano is
still being used for every worship service. Russell was also
responsible for making a motion to start a Thanksgiving supper
church wide on Wednesday night the week before the
Thanksgiving holiday. The first one was in 1958 and was a huge
success. Everyone looked forward to this annual affair. It was
always the largest gathering of the year. This event is still a big
gathering after all this time.
During this same year, the church elected the first budget and
finance committee consisting of Stancel Stewart, Candler Erwin,
Jannette Parker, Herman Frasier, and Russell Pedigo. Also, the
church adopted the first budget. Church trustees were also
appointed to serve as a standing committee. These men were
Herman Frasier, Candler Erwin, Luther Frasier, Cordell Carter, and
Stancel Stewart.
A highlight of this year was a youth tent revival sponsored by the
association. Bro. Dallas Pollard was in charge of the music and
each evening a different speaker was enjoyed.
Bear Cove Church had a problem: The church had voted to build
restrooms, but there was no access to running water. Everyone
decided the wise thing to do was have a well drilled. It turned out
not to be a very wise decision at all. After 13 attempts all over the
church property and many dollars “sunk,” all that was found was
21
black smelly water that was so full of gas you could strike a match
over the well tops and it would blaze like crazy! Would you
believe the well drillers themselves gave up and left! But the Lord
didn’t give up and a short time later the Sparta Country Club
allowed the church to use their water source. This was a
welcomed invitation and was used until city water became
available several years later.
In the spring of 1959, everyone’s heart was broken when Bro.
Craddock read his letter of resignation. He was going to a
pastorate in Gallatin, TN. Although he only served the church two
years, they were some of the most productive and constructive
years the church has ever experienced. Bro. and Mrs. Craddock
planted in the hearts and minds of Bear Cove members the desire
to strive for the best in teaching and training for all of God’s
children.
Bro. Vance King came to Bear Cove as pastor November 1, 1959.
Besides his wife Mary, their family consisted of one son, Johnny,
and daughters Sandra, Sharon, and Carolyn. Later, two more
daughters were born into the King household, Betty Kay and
Susie.
22
.
1960s
Mrs. King (Mary) was a super church worker and helped Bro. King
in his ministry far above the call of duty. She was willing and
eager to help the church family in any way that was needed. Even
with six children, she was never too busy to help a family pick
beans to can, make some child a dress, or run a sick member to
the doctor. Every year, she and Bro. King would fix food for all
those going to the January Evangelistic Rally in Nashville, and
usually, the church had 3 or 4 car loads attending. Mary taught a
youth Sunday School class, was the church WMU director and
association WMU director, cut the bulletin stencils and had the
ability to make others feel important and useful.
Bro. King had a God-given talent of working with his hands, and
the church people had been discussing the need for the church to
build a parsonage. For four years, the church had been paying
rent for the pastor and a home closer to the church was needed.
Mr. Fate Johnson sold a corner lot for $1,000 and a special drive
paid it off in only one month. This would later become the
building site for the parsonage, and nothing would please Bro.
King more than to be allowed to construct the home himself.
23
The trustees borrowed $11,000 and had hopes that would cover
the building materials and buy new pews for the church
auditorium also. It almost did!
Again, it was a proud group of people and a proud pastor and
family the day the new home was completed. With the help of a
few volunteers, it had not taken very long to finish. The King
family moved into the parsonage early in 1961.
The church realized the need for additional deacons to serve the
people and the moderator was given permission from the deacon
body to appoint a committee to investigate two men from the
membership to serve. The following business meeting the
committee recommended that H.L. Kirby and Cordell Carter be
ordained. John Eldridge was unanimously accepted to serve as a
deacon of the church January 17, 1962, but did not require
ordination. He was already ordained and had been serving as a
deacon in Oak Hill Church, Crossville, TN. This brought the
number of deacons to eight. Resident membership was 152 and
Sunday School was averaging 120.
Humor has always played a big part in the life of most church
congregations. Hillard Webster will forever remember the Sunday
morning that J.T. Carter pulled a prank on Claude Cunningham
(you would need to have known both men to really appreciate it).
During the adult men’s Sunday School lesson, with Mr. Guy Siever
in front of the class that met in the auditorium, J.T. slipped a
plastic bag of wild onions into Claude’s coat pocket. Mr. Claude
began twisting a little, looking around, kind of frowning and after
a time said, “Does anybody else in here smell onions? They are
sure smelling awfully strong to me!” This was probably the one
and only time he had ever spoken audibly in the class. J.T. says,
“Why, Claude, no wonder. They’re right there in your pocket,”
and he proceeded to pull out the bag of wild onions. You can
imagine the laughter from that class of men and the mystified
face of Mr. Claude.
Later in 1962, Bro. King volunteered his expertise in carpentry
when the church voted to remodel the front area of the building.
24
The floors were refinished and carpet for the center aisle was
going to be purchased, when one of the church’s most faithful
members, Mrs. Fate Johnson, went home to be with her Lord.
Several mentioned it would have been real nice if the carpet could
have been installed earlier, since all funerals were held in
churches then. Two of her granddaughters decided it wasn’t too
late to have carpet put down and off to Nashville went Clarice
Stewart and Norma Kirby in a borrowed truck looking for carpet.
They found a beautiful piece, brought it back home and a kind
man quit an unfinished job to install it. He finished just before the
crowd began gathering for the funeral. Mrs. Johnson surely must
have smiled from heaven when they rolled her down that nice
soft aisle. It was the first carpet Bear Cove Church had ever had.
During the same year the church lost another fine lady, Mrs. Emily
Dunn.
By 1964, resident membership had reached 177 and the need for
additional space was imperative. Plans were drawn and on May
20, 1964, the church again voted on a building program. This time
it was an extension to the auditorium and an education complex
consisting of 13 classrooms. Bro. King again was in charge of the
project and did most of the work himself. His most consistent
helper was Mr. Claude Cunningham. Larry Frasier, Stancel
Stewart, H.L. Kirby, Ralph Wilhite and Cordell Carter were among
those giving time and aggravating the preacher at the same time.
The building was finished in late 1965 and dedication services
were held with open house and dinner on the grounds. It was so
nice having a pre-school department and, for the first time ever,
the pastor had a study at church.
25
Frank Hargis made a great improvement to the church by building
a sandstone sign. Other improvements during this time were
installing telephones, fixing a baptistry, putting in central heating
and cooling and doing extensive landscaping.
Bro. L.D. Patrick of Chicago, Illinois, led the church in revival the
spring of 1968. October 13, 1968, four men of the church were
ordained as deacons. They were Loyd Walker, Ralph Wilhite,
Edwin Suggs and Leon Frasier.
Another first for the church was the decision to begin the
envelope system for offerings. H.L. Kirby was appointed to
secure, distribute and keep the record of contributions. The first
envelopes were very small, only 2x4 inches. A few years later, the
dollar size was made available.
Bro. King resigned from Bear Cove on March 23, 1969, after
faithfully serving for almost 10 years. The King family moved to
Rutherford County where he accepted the pastorate of Lascassas
Baptist Church.
A pulpit committee was appointed which included Jerrell and
Barbara Kirby, Leslie Lollar, Ed Suggs, Luther and Leon Frasier, and
Ralph Wilhite. During the four months the church was without a
pastor, Bro. James Hickey, a young man from Pistole Baptist
Church, who had surrendered to the ministry, served as interim.
The committee, on the approval of a friend of the church, Clifford
Horne, contacted a preacher in Buffalo, KY. After visiting with the
preacher, they chose to go one Sunday morning to hear him
preach. Most of the committee went the very next Sunday but
the church at Mt. Tabor was in a business meeting planning a
building program, and they did not get the opportunity to hear
him preach until several weeks later. Afterwards, they invited him
to bring his family and preach a trial message at Bear Cove.
Although he felt he could not leave Mt. Tabor, he did agree to
speak on May 12, 1969.
Everyone enjoyed his preaching, personality, and positive
attitude. Bear Cove people, the following Sunday, gave him a
unanimous vote to become pastor of the church. It was a very
26
hard decision for the minister to make and, after much prayer,
agreeing to come and then changing his mind, Bro. Cosby A.
Dobson became the church’s third full-time pastor.
The Dobson family moved on the church field to begin working
with a group of excited and enthusiastic people on July 23, and
Bro. Dobson preached his first message as pastor on the 27th.
Bro. Dobson and Edna had two sons: Dale, a college student, and
Kenny, a high school freshman who loved motorcycles and cars by
far better then he did school.
The very first night in Sparta was a real experience for the new
preacher’s family. The day had been long and tiring, furniture had
been loaded and unloaded, at least 20 families had dropped by
bringing food and good wishes, and finally, just after midnight, the
family got to sleep. At least everyone except the preacher... and
he got a kidney stone! Yes, after waking his wife and the pain
getting worse and worse, the two knew they needed to find a
hospital…but where was the hospital? That late and new in town,
did they call and ask a member or try to find it themselves? The
latter they chose and, after a while, very embarrassed, the new
preacher had been admitted to White County Hospital. He had
never been a patient in a hospital before and he took a lot of
joking about his first night in Sparta.
Soon after Bro. Dobson began his ministry, a committee was
appointed to check on an organ for the church. The committee
serving with the pastor was Barbara Pinger, Ed Suggs, Katherine
Smith, Larry Frasier and Stancel Stewart. After several trips to
different cities, the committee recommended a Hammond, and it
27
was purchased. It certainly made a difference in the music
program.
1970s
A Sunday School enlargement campaign was started in January of
1970. Enthusiasm for growth was everyone’s goal. Classes
competed against each other, attendance pens were given for
perfect attendance and the record was broken with a Sunday
School average of 209 and Church Training with 108.
Bro. Ralph Duncan volunteered to lead a jail ministry on a weekly
basis, and several members of the brotherhood volunteered to
help. This, too, was an exciting way to serve the Lord.
During the year of 1970, many long hours were spent preparing a
Church Constitution and By-laws. They were adopted in March of
’70 and, although a few changes have been made, basically the
church still abides by these rules for church government.
One of the most exciting times in several children’s lives was in
August of 1970. This was the first time Bear Cove children had
experienced the privilege of attending a summer Bible Camp.
Clarice Stewart volunteered her time and talents to assume
responsibility for taking a group of young people to Camp
Monterey. It was days well spent and was the talk of these
children for weeks to come. Bro. John Smith, Associational
Director of Missions, was responsible for planning the camp and
was always eager for the children in Union Baptist Association to
have the opportunity of attending Bible camps.
Jerrell Kirby’s old truck will never be the same. He volunteered to
take as many as wanted to go into Scott’s Gulf for a wiener roast
and hayride. He really didn’t expect 54 to show up and that’s why
the truck would never be the same. The load broke it down.
However, with about a dozen mechanic-minded men and boys
working, it did get the adventurers back to civilization before
daybreak the following morning! It’s experiences like this one
that make you remember them.
28
In October of the same year, the youth, along with Larry Frasier
and Bro. Dobson, began a survey of the BonDeCroft Community.
They found out that several hundred people were not being
ministered to by any church whatsoever. It became a matter of
concern and prayer and many days and nights were spent in
visitation to folks in the area. The following year a Vacation Bible
School was conducted in the BonDeCroft School building,
enrolling 78 interested children. For several years, Bear Cove
conducted a mission VBS for the area, but plans for a mission did
not materialize at the time.
An attendance record was broken in October with an average
Sunday School attendance of 209 and Church Training with 108.
In November, the church was blessed by a World Mission
Conference. Bear Cove received the “M” Night attendance
banner for having the most in attendance at the associational
meeting.
The WMU sponsored a “Blast Off” earlier in the year of 1970 and
come December, they reaped the rewards of the harvest. Fifteen
families received baskets of food because of the generosity of
Bear Cove members participating in the special project.
March 14, 1971, Bear Cove again experienced a deacon
ordination. The three newly elected deacons were Larry Frasier,
Bill Boruff, and Leslie Lollar. Bro. Elmer Crosby, Bro. Sam McCord,
and Bro. John Smith participated in the service.
In April, another record was broken - the April average in Sunday
School was 230.
A ministry that will have lasting results was the physical therapy
teams who worked with a White County youth in the Cassville
community, Rodney Grissom. The teams gave therapy twice a
week for several months. Each team required 4 people, and each
time a team visited Rodney, they received the blessing.
Jerrell Kirby suggested we check into requirements needed to
operate a bus ministry. The pastor appointed Loyd Walker, Mike
Pullum, Jerrell Kirby and Larry Frasier to serve as a committee to
find out detailed requirements and report back to the
29
congregation. A few months later a suitable bus was found and
purchased from the Cumberland County Board of Education for
$526. At first, the bus was just used for recreational purposes,
but later, its main use was to transport unchurched people to
Bear Cove who had no other way of attending. The bus route was
in the BonDeCroft area with Bill Boruff serving as bus pastor and
Edwin Suggs as his assistant. Other workers were Mary Ruth
Miller, Jo Carter and Norma Kirby. Many Sundays, the bus would
have 30-35 people. Most of them were children who would not
have attended had it not been for the bus ministry.
A monthly radio broadcast of the morning worship service was
started in February of 1972 and continued for several years.
Attendance was increasing and, in March of 1972, a building
committee was appointed to begin planning for additional space.
The committee was Leslie Lollar, Paul Gouge, Larry Frasier, Bill
Boruff, Cloray Collins, Mary Ruth Miller, Betty Frasier Roberts, and
Norma Kirby. Luther Frasier was to be the plumbing consultant
and H.L. Kirby, the electric consultant. Everyone knew it would be
awhile before a building would be constructed, but at least this
committee could lay some ground work.
Meanwhile the church voted to increase Cooperative Program
gifts to 7% and associational gifts to 6%. Every fifth Sunday
offering would be put in a special building fund.
Everyone has always heard of church mice but a motion by Jo Ann
Frasier on April 5, 1972 put an end to the church mice…they were
all to be exterminated!
The youth, with the help of a few adults , built a float for the
annual Christmas parade and won second place out of forty-two
fine entries.
A morning to remember at Bear Cove took place Sunday, October
10, 1973. Bro. Dobson led the congregation in observance of the
Lord’s Supper and turned the service over to the Haskel
McCubbins family, a singing group from Kentucky. As the
invitation was given, eleven people were gloriously saved. Lunch
was about an hour late, but no one seemed to mind.
30
Bro. Ralph Benningfield, the associational director of missions,
taught the 1974 January Bible Study.
Many surprises happen at church and Bear Cove is no exception.
It should have happened on April 1, but it was on February 14,
1974, that the congregation received a “bang” – about half of the
celo-tex fell from the auditorium ceiling. It was quite a scare as
well as a big mess!
Two additional deacons were ordained: Cloray Collins and Hollis
Miller. Franklin Turner, previously ordained at another church,
also became an active deacon of Bear Cove Church.
The building committee that had been appointed two years
earlier were beginning to generate enthusiasm, especially after
purchasing additional property. Willard Swift made it possible to
make plans for a new sanctuary by selling a strip of land,
approximately 0.6 of an acre. The cost was $10,000, and the
church found itself ready to build again.
A few members were asking the question: “Can the church afford
to build?” In past building programs, the costs were very nominal,
but now the talk was well over $100,000 and the building account
only had about $15,000. God prepares leadership for every
worthwhile project in His kingdom’s work, and this was no
exception. He gave the pastor the wisdom to present a building
program that was so simple that it was a unanimous decision
when the vote was taken on Sunday morning March 17, 1974.
More than $30,000 was given the morning it was presented, and
ground-breaking ceremonies were held March 24 following the
morning worship service.
Sparta Planing Mill received the contract and construction began
immediately. Bro. Dobson was in charge of the decision making
and spent many restless nights making those decisions. It was a
memorable day for all Bear Cove members when, on August 3,
1975, the last service was conducted in the old auditorium and
the first one was conducted in the new sanctuary. This day
special recognition was given to those who had taken part in the
construction of the building. Highlighting the day was the
baptizing of 24 precious people during the evening worship.
31
August 10-17 was a most enjoyable week as the church
participated in an area-wide E.J. Daniel Crusade. During this
special week, 226 decisions were made for Christ. Bear Cove
Church closed the books on 1975 by adding 37 by baptism and 29
by letter.
January 1976 was begun with the January Bible Study, the book of
Hosea. Those who were present were privileged to meet Mr.
Hosea himself with a live interview. He sounded a lot like Larry
Frasier…kind of looked like him, too.
February brought “Day of Decision,” the final drive before
establishing regular monthly payments on the new building.
Almost $20,000 was received.
Preparations were made for the dedication of the new sanctuary
and fellowship hall. Landscaping was finished, the parking lots
paved and the big day was scheduled for May 9, 1976. It was a
great day with about 400 present, including several former
pastors. Bro. Grady Craddock brought the dedicatory message
and the others received special recognition. In the afternoon,
many activities took place. A singing group, The Gospel Keys,
presented a selection of hymns. Bro. Dobson’s former pastor
from Kentucky, Bro. Hammit, was a guest speaker. Then Bro.
Dobson was presented a “humorous survival kit,” a scrapbook
containing mementos of his 20 years in the ministry. Franklin
Turner, chairman of the deacons, presented Bro. and Mrs. Dobson
a trip to the Holy Land, a gift from the church.
32
Later that year, three men were added to serve as church
trustees: Cloray Collins, Hillard Webster and Bill Floyd. The
church voted to hire Mr. and Mrs. Harry Davis as church
custodians on July 9, 1976.
A ten-mile bike hike for home missions on August 7, 1976,
produced over $200 and 40 tired backs and blistered faces. Later
the same month, children’s church workers took 42 screaming
kids on a hayride to the Crossville Park. The kids had a ball; the
workers haven’t been seen since!
A great time of fellowship was enjoyed by about 200 on
Wednesday evening, August 11, 1976. The social committee,
along with lots of extra help, put together a fantastic Hawaiian
Luau. Never has there been fruit pizza like that fruit pizza . . .
even though it took two whole days to prepare! Jo Marie Lollar
met everyone at the door with her costume imported straight
from Hawaii; it made quite a first impression. Following a tour
through the island, guests were escorted through an overhanging
grove of blooming flowers and green plants into the serving room
which was decorated in exotic fashion. Many hard but happy
hours of labor went into the decorating and those who attended
will never forget the fun that was enjoyed.
December was an exciting month. The church choir presented
their very first Christmas Cantata, “A Song Was Born.” Sylvia
Hester, the Music Director, had lots of faith and confidence in the
33
group of untrained voices but the entire group did well. Everyone
present wanted it presented again the next week!
The decision was made later in December of 1976 to begin
remodeling the old auditorium into a preschool department.
The year’s additions to the church family totaled 38, with resident
membership at 354.
The 23rd Royal Ambassador Congress held in Nashville was very
rewarding for the RA boys as well as the counselors. The group
won 4 first awards, placed second in 7 projects and Frank Green
was elated. He had worked long and hard with the boys as
pioneer counselor.
Another first for Bear Cove Church took place on April 17, 1977,
when Garri George was ordained for full- time Christian ministry.
Garri and his wife Lois accepted the position of full-time ministry
for Campus Youth for Christ in the Memphis area.
The year of 1977, Sylvia Hester was elected Music Director.
Although she did not want a salary, the small amount that was
given helped defray a few of her expenses. Her leadership ability
was great and the entire music program of the church was
upgraded considerably, and although she threatened, Stancel
Stewart was never put into the baptistry for disrupting choir
rehearsals.
With church membership increasing, the church realized the need
for additional deacons and, on June 6 of ‘77, the church ordained
6 new deacons. Bro. Ray Maynard of Central Association was
guest speaker for the ordination of Lonnie Crouch, Dennis Farmer,
Bill Floyd, Paul Goff, Frank Green, and David Howard.
34
The spring revival of 1978 was led by Bro. Fred Steelman of Bank
Baptist Church in Chattanooga.
April 30, 1978, Bro. Dobson resigned as pastor after serving
almost 9 years. During his pastorate, the church saw much
progress, both numerically and spiritually. He was a man with
much charisma and a bubbling personality and was an excellent
church administrator. Mrs. Dobson shared in his work by serving
the church in many capacities. She was WMU Director, a Sunday
School teacher, choir member, and was willing to do anything for
the church people.
Jerry Self, an employee of TBC served as interim for three months
and was an inspiration to Bear Cove members.
In the fall of 1978, the church purchased a new van and its first
journey was to the association which was held at Boiling Springs.
The delegates were Clarice Stewart, Norma Kirby, Louise Howard,
Thelma Wallace, and Ruth Johnson, with alternates being Eva Dell
Selby, Ralph Wilhite and Stancel Stewart.
In July of ’78, the church elected a pastor search committee which
consisted of Dennis Farmer, Cloray Collins, Dan Hester, Bill Floyd,
Bill Boruff, Clarice Stewart, and David Howard.
Bro. Joseph Crichton of Knoxville came for a trial message, was
extended a call from the church, but he declined the call to
remain at his present church.
October 15-18, the church joined the association in a week of
World Mission Conferences. Several great missionaries spoke and
blessed the hearts of those present.
35
Bro. James Lee
November 26, 1978, Bro. James Lee filled the pulpit for a trial
message and was later called. He accepted the pastorate and
began his ministry on January 7, 1979. The Lee family had been
serving Highland Park Baptist Church in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee,
for seven years. Bro. Lee had pastored churches in the Nashville
area and prior to pastoring he had served as a Bible professor at
Belmont College in Nashville.
The Lee family consisted of four sons: Thomas, a graduate of
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; David, who was a
minister of music in Texas; James, a football player for a college in
Kansas City; and their fourth son, Philip, a high school sophomore.
During Bro. Lee’s first year as pastor, the Sunday School averaged
151 and 8 new members were received by baptism, 16 by letter.
The same year the church purchased a new IBM typewriter. Bro.
Lee, with the help of Mrs. Lee, started a bi-monthly newsletter.
The WMU sponsored the church’s first offering toward World
Hunger. The amount received was $360.00.
Bro. Ray Maynard of McMinnville led the church in revival
October 14-19, and during the mid-day conducted a special study
on the Survival Kit. Also during October, a drive to retire the van
debt was held, new tables for the fellowship hall were purchased,
and bumper stickers were ordered for each member’s car,
advertising the church.
36
Messengers to the annual association were Bro. and Mrs. Lee,
Florida Goff, Mattie Webster, Peggy Collins, Anna R. Johnson and
Stancel Stewart. Alternates were Clarice Stewart and Paul Goff.
The Royal Ambassadors joined 390 other churches from
Tennessee as registration reached 2,189 from across the nation at
the first National R.A. congress ever held in Tennessee. The Opry
House served as the place for the opening assembly.
R.A.Awards
Jerry Kelsey took an excited group to Atlanta to see the Braves vs.
Dodgers June 23rd. It was a sleepy bunch that sat in Sunday
School the next morning.
1980s
As the year 1979 slipped quietly away, Bear Cove Church found
itself in Bro. James Lee’s second year as pastor. Dennis Farmer
began 1980 as Sunday School Director and Bill Boruff was Training
Union Director. In January, the church took on the responsibility
of Cherry Creek Mission’s sponsor. Ralph and Edna Wilhite and
David and Louise Howard left our church to help with the new
mission.
The church enjoyed a beautiful concert given by Carol Sexton, a
blind young lady from Malvern, PA.
Bro. Jerry Self, whom we all learned to love, held our January
Bible study.
For a while, the church was in need of a music director. Our very
own, Denny Robinson, agreed to accept the position, and we
37
were delighted. He was a super worship leader and great singer.
He loves the Lord and loves music.
During the monthly business meeting on April 9 of ’80, a motion
was made by Herman Frasier and seconded by Cloray Colllins to
accept and activate Doug Austin as a deacon of the church
according to the rules and regulations of the church. Doug had
been ordained and had served as a deacon in a church prior to
coming to Bear Cove.
May the 6th was a special day in the church; it was SUPER SENIOR
ADULT DAY! Everyone dressed in old fashion frocks, dinner was
spectacular, and the program consisted of the senior adults
sharing stories and events that had taken place in their earlier
days at Bear Cove. Mrs. Sally Webster, Mrs. Anna Ruth Johnson,
Mrs. Kittie Carson and Mrs. Jessie Frasier were some of the
program personalities.
1980 was a special year for the Acteens at the Summit Meeting in
Gatlinburg. Valerie Wilhite was a participant in the Studiact
Recognition and Awards Service. She had reached the level of
Queen in the Acteen Studiact Program.
Special honor and recognition was given to Frank and May Dean
Green on June 8, 1980. They were leaving the church to serve at
Camp Carson in Newport, TN.
Messengers to the associational meeting for October, 1980 were
Bro. and Mrs. Lee, Florida Goff, Stancel Stewart, Clarice Stewart,
and Thelma Wallace.
Bro. F.M. Dowell held the fall revival October 19-24 and Dan Farris
was in charge of the music.
In 1981, Larry Frasier took Dennis’s job in Sunday School; Bill still
had the Church Training job. In January of ’81, an exciting event
took place. The old church bell that had tolled many Sunday
mornings in the early days of the church came home. Dr. Buford
Roberts called H.L. Kirby on Saturday morning and told him to
come and get it. (H.L. had asked him if he ever sold it to call him
first.) Dr. Roberts told him it really belonged back at the church.
38
We had a special dedication service for its return. The next
Sunday, Jan. 20, all celebrated the return of the hostages from
Iran. We also took part in the TN project of building wells in
Upper Volta by sending finances and later, Shirley Farley.
Bear Cove RA boys were in the middle of collecting stamps with
ten other churches for missionary purposes. Two missionaries
from Japan came and presented slides, skits, and puppets. Our
GA’s were dressed in foreign costumes and served food samples
from all over. It was an interesting and inspiring service.
Bear Cove conducted its first Acteen Coronation Service.
Ordination services for Dan Hester were held May 31, 1981, with
Dr. Fred Kendall of Nashville as guest speaker. This made the
number of deacons serving the church eighteen.
June 12 of 1981, Mr. and Mrs. Herman Frasier, long-time
members of Bear Cove, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
A van load of ladies (21) graced the stage of WSM’s Noon Show
hosted by the popular Teddy Bart. He talked with the group,
served drinks and snacks, and Nashville will never be the same
again. The group laughed, sang, told stories and had a hot but
great time!
Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Kirby celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary.
An unusual and exciting family came to live among the church
family on August 24, 1981. In a business meeting early in 1981,
Mr. Harry Davis made the suggestion that the church look in to
the sponsorship of a refugee family. This was turned over to the
missions committee and then brought back to the church in July.
A family of 6 was in Thailand’s refugee camp awaiting any
sponsorship from a free country. The church gave their approval
and the committee got to work. Volunteering for this project
were Norma Kirby, Jane McKee and Jo Carter. It was a happy
committee waiting in the Nashville airport late on August 24th
watching for the family of Bounyoth and Mone Thammovangsa
39
The Thammovangsa children
and their four children: Vannaly, Vanhsay, Vanna, and Vanthavone
arriving to begin a new life in a new country. They had escaped
death from the communists by crossing the Mekong Delta by
night in a borrowed boat with guns shooting all around them.
They had been in the refugee camp about a year. Bear Cove was
their first home and the membership really learned to love and
appreciate this special family. However, later the family moved to
another state where they found several Laotian families living.
This church year we lost by death a fine old gentleman, Mr. Jim
Wallace. He rode the van to church. Twelve were baptized and
20 came by letter in 1981.
The first Sunday in 1982, Bro. Rubia Canas spoke for Race
Relations Day. Nelda Pincheon did special music.
This was the year Cherry Creek was constituted into a church. Our
church had 119 at “M” Night at First Baptist Church.
In 1982 a Baptist Young Women’s group was organized. This was
the only age group organization that the church did not have.
The GA’s attended their first GA-la at Wallace Memorial Church,
Knoxville, Tennessee. Their leaders were Geneva Parker and
Connie Kirby.
Several pieces of media equipment were purchased for the church
media center, and the librarian began processing the books
correctly.
40
Bro. Anis Shorrosh, a once displaced Palestinian, now an author of
several books, an ordained Baptist evangelist, and a very unusual
man of God, preached in a 4-day revival May 17-20.
The church had two state-wide winners in the Children’s Bible
Drill and several others participated.
Bear Cove had a roof problem. . . it leaked! It would be repaired
and in no time it was leaking again. This pattern was repeated
numerous times and finally it was decided the only way to stop
the leaks was to build a pitched roof over the flat educational
building. After discussing with carpenters the cost of this type
roof, it was suggested that with a few additional feet added to the
roof a third story of classrooms could be constructed at a very
reasonable price. It was brought before the church and, after the
plan was presented, the church voted to go ahead with the
building. Seven large classrooms and much needed storage space
were made available. Dedication day for the new addition was
held in conjunction with Sr. Adult Day on August 14, 1983.
Also in August, the church participated in a World Mission
Conference, hearing a different missionary speaker each evening.
We had 20 men attend Evangelism Conference in Nashville and
had a GREAT Baptist Men’s Day.
In this year the church baptized 15 and received 22 by letter. We
lost one by death, Mr. Cordell Carter, a former deacon.
One highlight of this particular year was the drama presented by
the ladies of the church. It was a drama depicting stories of
women of the Old Testament entitled “Remember Us, The
Women.”
Bro. James Lee conducted a six week soul-winning class following
Wednesday evening prayer meeting. The classes were well
attended and very informative.
Bear Cove Church had the privilege of hosting the associational
WMU International Banquet. It was a huge success attendance
wise, and the food and program resulted in an unforgettable
event.
41
The highlight of 1983 was the sponsorship of BonDeCroft Mission.
One special day was Mother’s Day of 1983. It was a day full of
surprises for many mothers who had children out of town. These
children were invited to church and were hidden backstage.
During the program, one by one the children gave an exciting
event that had happened during their childhood, then presented
their mother with red roses.
On December 31, 1983 Bro. Lee resigned as pastor. He accepted
the pastorate of Red River Baptist Church, Adams, Tennessee.
During his leadership the church added 77 members through
baptism and 91 by letter or statement. He led the church to a
deeper Bible study commitment, and encouraged the
congregation always to depend on the Lord for all things. Mrs.
Lee was one of the greatest study course teachers the church had
known and her ability for sharing in this type study was missed.
The pastor search committee included Dan Hester - chairman, Bill
England, Mike Pullum, Freddie Maxwell, Norma Kirby and
alternates, Lonnie Crouch and Randall Kirby.
The committee contacted Bro. Roy D. Graves, who was a student
at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, North
Carolina. Bro. Roy agreed to travel to a church in Nashville to
allow the committee to hear him. Afterwards, he was invited to
Bear Cove for a visit and preached on Sunday morning. The
congregation had no doubts and the following Sunday morning
voted to call Bro. Roy as the fifth full- time pastor.
Bro. Roy and Fran Graves
42
Bro. Roy, his wife Fran, and their two children, Wendy and
Matthew, arrived on the church field May 16, 1984. He had
finished seminary studies the week before. Although he had just
graduated, he was an old timer at preaching, having pastored
churches in Cookeville, Monteagle, Westmoreland and, while in
seminary, Mt. Olivet in Franklinton.
Bear Cove was blessed when a young lady, Shirley Farley, felt led
to volunteer for an extended ministry to work with the Literacy
Program in Bourkina Fasso, Africa. She had served one month in
1983 and really felt the Lord leading her back. After this stay on
the field in Africa, she was appointed by the Foreign Mission
Board to become a career missionary. Shirley attended seminary
in Louisville, KY, preparing for her missionary venture beginning in
January of 1985.
Shirley Farley
The church year of 1985 started off with the ordination of seven
new deacons: Carl Cude, Thomas Lee, Phillip Lee, Randall Kirby,
Garry Parker, Mike Pullum, and Bill Shaffield. Dr. Herbert Gabhart
of Nashville’s Belmont College brought the ordination message.
Dan Hester, chairman of deacons, spent many long hours in
preparation to be able to present to the other deacons the family
deacon ministry plan. Much study and writing went into the
program. When it was finished, a retreat was planned at Fall
43
Creek Falls Park and the deacons spent many hours learning the
program and studying the books. It was an inspirational weekend,
and each deacon who attended received a blessing.
An additional staff member was added in March of 1985. Bro.
Frederick R. Freed of Cookeville became the church’s first fulltime Minister of Music and Youth. Bro. Fred and his wife Connie
were both graduates of Tennessee Technological University and
were the parents of two little girls, Christine and Jessica.
Wednesday night, August 13, 1986, both Bro. Fred and Bro. Roy
resigned as ministers of Bear Cove Baptist. Bro. Roy had accepted
the pastorate of Riverside Baptist Church, Nashville, TN. Bro.
Fred’s plans had not been fully determined.
In the little over two years that Bro. Roy served the church, 50
additions had been received, and many lives touched by his
ministry. It seemed for the first six months he was driving to
hospitals almost daily, visiting and ministering to the sick. Never
in the church’s history, had there been so much illness.
While Bro. Roy was pastor, the church purchased a much-needed
copying machine, the building indebtedness for remodeling the
parsonage and pastor’s study was paid off, and the church was
inspired to sacrificially give toward debt retirement by August 31,
1986. This was the day that everyone was really hoping to retire
the building indebtedness. While that goal was not totally
44
realized, almost $50,000.00 was received after Bro. Roy had the
dream almost two years earlier.
Bro. Roy felt the need to have special Bible classes with small
groups. He taught seminary extension classes for the
associational pastors and leaders, conducted a Master Life Class
on Saturday mornings, conducted special studies on Wednesday
evenings, and encouraged everyone to stay in Bible study and
have a strong prayer life.
Fran, likewise, helped the church in so many ways. She revitalized
the BYW group, taught a Sunday School class, led the Acteens,
was a choir member, held an associational position, and when
asked, began delivering meals on wheels each Friday. All this was
done with a smile and cheerful feelings.
Bro. Fred’s talent demonstrated the benefits of having trained
musical ability in the pulpit. He led the church in purchasing new
hymnals, brought in some great talents like Key DeKalb, graciously
received a piano as a donation from a church member for the
church’s use, was elected associational music director, and taught
the congregation so many new and wonderful hymns and
choruses. Bro. Fred directed the choir in the 1986 Christmas
Cantata, “Promise of Peace.”
The youth enjoyed many, many outings as Fred tried teaching
them about Christ and gave them spiritual food, as well as
showed them a good time. The rafting trips will never be
forgotten, and if you worked with him on a daily basis, you would
have discovered he made a super cup of coffee!
Connie, like Fran, was willing to give of her talents willingly.
Although she had the responsibility of two little girls, she still was
active in the BYW, worked in children’s church, participated in the
choir, helped in preschool, and did an excellent job in all these
areas.
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The golden Circle class 1986
The Old Faithful class 1986
The year 1986 was not only Homecoming ’86 throughout
Tennessee, but was homecoming for the church as it celebrated
its 75th Anniversary as an organized church. The celebration took
place Sunday, August 31, 1986. And a great day it turned out to
be. Although rain came down unlike we had seen in months, it
was much needed and folks did not complain. It was almost like
God was sending an extra blessing on this special day. The house
was filled - old friends, former members, and most former pastors
came. The service was opened with “To God, Be the Glory” and
concluded with another great hymn, “How Great Thou Art.”
Sprinkled in between were all types of exciting activities: special
music by Miss Annette Hughes, former member and a finalist in
the Miss Tennessee Pageant; a play written by Mrs. Betty Ford
entitled “Precious Memories;” brief expressions by former pastors
and invited guests and presentations from the church to many
46
deserving friends. Lunch was served and enjoyed by the great
host of people, and, just like the Bible tells us in Matthew 16:37,
they were all filled and many baskets were left full. It was a great
day in the life of Bear Cove Baptist Church.
On September 10, 1986, during the monthly business meeting a
Pastor Search Committee was selected. The committee consisted
of Steve Webster, chairman; Cheryl Webster, secretary; Dennis
Farmer; Larry Frasier; David Johnson and alternates, Jerry Kelsey
and Randall Kirby.
The eight months without a pastor allowed a variety of fine
speakers to fill the pulpit. Bro. Ray Maynard, Director of Missions
for Union Association, served as interim for three months. Three
adult men were baptized into the fellowship by Bro. Ray. Others
who brought messages were Jerry Self, Donnie Smith, Bill Harbin,
Johnnie Lee, and Charles Dycus. The men of the church usually
took charge of Wednesday evenings.
Charles Dycus was a God- send. He was so willing and so capable
any time he was invited. He agreed to serve as interim until a
pastor was secured. During this time, he taught the book of
Esther and this “747 Hour of Power,” as he called it, saw
attendance increase on a weekly basis.
On October 14, 1986 in Richmond, Virginia, Shirley Farley was
commissioned by the Foreign Mission Board to become a career
missionary. Her place of service was to be Mali, Africa. She had
to finish seminary in Kentucky then go to Paris, France, where she
enrolled in language school. After completion of the language
study, she was flown to Africa for her work with literacy missions.
She served 4 years before being furloughed.
Thanks to the GA leaders, our girls spent a joyous time in Camp
Carson, Newport, TN, attending the GA-la. Eight little girls
enjoyed the trip.
The RA Week special speaker was a talented young man from
Crossville, David Jones. He had been involved in RA programs all
of his life and did an excellent job.
47
The BYW Group led the church to participate in the first annual
Crafts for Missions Fair. It was held in connection with the annual
Thanksgiving dinner. The participation was great, and over $300
was given to help support the church food shelf.
Action that was taken on Sunday morning, March 17, 1974, was
climaxed on December 3, 1986. Mr. Herman Frasier took the final
payment to the First National Bank and picked up the clear deed
marked “paid in full.” Bear Cove Church was again debt free,
having paid approximately $300,000 for the church building.
During the Watch Night Service on December 31, 1986, Dennis
Farmer held the note and Herman Frasier, having served in the
capacity of deacon longer than anyone in the history of the
church, burned the note with gladness. Dennis was serving as
Chairman of Deacons. It was a happy time for the congregation as
a lot of faith and sacrifice reached fulfillment. Paying the debt off
was a dream that Bro. Roy had hoped to see as the 75th
Anniversary Celebration was enjoyed. Several thousand had been
given at that time, but it wasn’t until 4 months later that it
became a reality.
January and February were record cold months, with services
being called off due to snow and ice; but in February, an exciting
Evangelism Conference was held with Bro. J.B. Wascom, Gerald
Edwards, and Fred Davis. As it turned out, Bro. Wascom filled the
pulpit at Bear Cove and was very interested in becoming the
pastor. However, after flying back to Sparta from Texas,
preaching and talking to the search committee, he stated he
needed to bring the family down. This he did and the church was
very hopeful he would accept the pastorate, but circumstances
prevented it. The committee continued faithfully searching out
the right man for Bear Cove.
Having returned from Venezuela and a Masterlife Seminar, Bro.
Ray Maynard presented a need for volunteers to go to this
country to help complete the Venezuela Baptist Convention
building. The church voted to support this mission project
financially and three men of the church volunteered their time
and talents: Royce Hutchings, Mike Pullum and Cliff Stanley.
48
They received orientation and left on March 28 and returned April
10, 1987. Their slides and messages proved the project well
worth the efforts of Tennessee Baptists.
Bear Cove Acteens and RA’s attended the annual Summit
meetings at Opryland and Chattanooga Congress on April 16-18,
1987.
Randall Kirby, who served the church as a volunteer youth leader,
along with the youth council, planned a bi-monthly Bible study, in
addition to the other activities that were planned.
The Pastor Search Committee was thrilled beyond words when a
fine young man, Donny Stewart, agreed to preach at Bear Cove in
view of a call to become pastor. He really impressed everyone
with his dynamic style of preaching and his friendly personality.
The church voted on Bro. Donny the following Sunday with the
vote being 124 - 1.
June 7, 1987, Bro. Donny, his wife, Janet, and three precious
children moved onto the church field to serve the Lord. This
pastor captured the hearts of everyone young and old. God
blessed his ministry and his hard work. In seven months, the
church added 47 new members into the fellowship of Bear Cove.
His first message was June 14, and he left immediately for the
Southern Baptist Convention.
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Another red letter day in the life of the church was in September
1987, when another blessing was sent to minister to our church.
Bro. Gary Allen, his wife, Janie, and their four sons moved their
membership to Bear Cove. Bro. Gary was added to the staff as
music director on a bi-vocational basis. The leadership he had as
a worship leader was wonderful.
Bro. Gary Allen
Our church family was saddened when we learned of the death of
our first full-time pastor, Bro. Grady Craddock. He was pastor
1958-59.
Our Halloween gatherings were always fun and special but the
most memorable one was the October Bro. Donny prepared the
Bible Martyr’s Hall of Fame. A tour guide took those attending
through the hall and it was really something to view - Steve
Webster hanging upside down and Tracy Frasier as Dorcas scared
everyone to death! The preacher designed and directed it all. It
was unforgettable!
Bro. Donny and Janet hosted a deacon/wife banquet December
11, 1987. The food was yummy.
The month of December was very difficult for the Stewart family.
Bro. Donny was in the hospital or sick at home the last two weeks
in December and the first two weeks in January 1988. The last
Sunday in January brought much sadness into the lives of Bear
Cove people. Because of the difficulties he was experiencing, his
doctors recommended a temporary leave from the pastorate. He
felt that for the good of his family as well as the church, he should
follow his doctors’ advice. He resigned January 31, 1988, and
50
reluctantly the church had no other choice but to accept his
decision.
Much too soon another search committee was selected during
the February business meeting. It consisted of Bill Boruff as
chairman, Sharon Stanley, Royce Hutchings, Mike Pullum and
Janie Allen. Linda Maynard and Cliff Stanley were alternates.
Once again, we secured excellent people to fill the pulpit. We also
enjoyed some really good singing groups that our people had
asked to hear. Our Sunday School was doing great, as well as all
other organizations, in the absence of a minister. However, the
search committee was hard at work hearing people and going
over resumes.
One morning, Bro. Don Owens, pastor of Immanuel Church,
Lebanon, came into the church office and shared that he had
prayed a long time about whether or not he should bring the
resume of a young man who had worked at their church for a few
years. He stated that twice he almost turned around and went
back home, but something kept him from doing so. He handed
the resume to the secretary, Norma Kirby, and relayed several
things about the man and what he did for Immanuel. The person
had been in Texas for a while completing seminary at
Northwestern and was employed at Sunny Glen Baptist Church as
youth and education director.
Bro. Dave Shelley
51
The resume was passed on and the committee chose to contact
Bro. Dave M. Shelley and invite him to fly to Sparta for a weekend
visit. After much prayer and consideration, Bro. Dave agreed to
come and meet the people. Later, his wife, Melissa, came for a
day’s visit. Her parents lived in Lebanon. Bro. Dave came back for
a trial message and the following Sunday the church voted to call
the Shelleys to Bear Cove.
They moved the second week in May and the first thing he told
the congregation was that he was here for the next 20 years. He
made it fourteen! Bro. Dave was quite different from most
pastors. First, he was a Yankee from Lancaster, PA. You could
surely tell by his speech he wasn’t a southerner! Second, he got
involved with the adults, the youth and the children. He planned
programs, trips and outings for every age group. He had energy
to burn and our membership loved it, especially the adults who
were usually left out of most things.
The Shelleys invited the congregation to an open house the
second Sunday they were here, and he could remember most
names after hearing them just once. You would find him in a pair
of shorts most days because early mornings he studied and most
afternoons were spent with some group playing or tripping
elsewhere. His organizational skills were great, and he never
wanted recognition for himself. Another thing about this Yankee
was that he could not stand clutter. He cleaned out closets,
refrigerators, shelves and anything that needed uncluttered. He
purchased food for church-wide meals, helped prepare the food,
always preplanned the after- dinner program, and then you would
find him in the kitchen washing dishes. Usually, at those meals he
did not eat.
Cliff and Sharon Stanley, along with helpers, directed a wonderful
children’s Christmas musical. Bro. Gary and choir presented their
Christmas musical December 22 on Sunday morning.
In 1988, Bear Cove received the WMU Mission Plaque for the
church having done more missions ministry than any other church
in the association.
52
We had three Bible Drill participants who were state winners:
Christy Hutchings, Rita Maynard and Candy Stanley.
In 1988, the church lost by death three members: Ed Hutchings,
Arthur Frasier and Virgie Frasier.
We began 1989 with a film that everyone enjoyed and will
remember, A Man Called Norman. Our men did a super job on
Baptist Men’s Day. Cloray Collins, Paul Goff and Mark McKee
were the main speakers.
For Valentine’s Day, there were no evening services. Parents
dropped off their children and went out for a much- needed night
out. The children had a Bible story and refreshments. Bro. Dave
and Melissa did the children’s program. Parents were very
appreciative.
Two van loads of youth attended the Youth Evangelism
Conference in Nashville.
February 26, our church joined with BonDeCroft at their place for
services.
Bro. Bill Cox gave a concert for our congregation, which was a real
blessing.
Bro. Dave took the youth to a basketball game in Atlanta while
the Acteen girls attended a conference at Opryland Hotel.
Our church conducted a door-to-door census in the Rim Rock
area. Our youth helped the WMU in this project. Also, we
observed the Year of the Laity as key men of the church led the
services. They were Steve Webster, Randall Kirby and Mike Smith.
Leading the music were Stancel Stewart, Ralph Brown and Garry
Parker. Testimonies were shared by Charles Broyles, Luther
Frasier and Don Fuller.
A record VBS was enjoyed. “A Sonseeker Safari” had jammed
classes, including adults.
A highlight of the year was the service with Nan and Dennis Allen
and the celebration of the family. Everyone went downstairs and
“pigged out” for lunch.
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Bro. Dave reorganized Sunday School, Church Training and, later,
would change the missions organizations meeting times. He and
Melissa were trained in missions education and wanted our
church to lead in missions ministry.
One year, he bought 100 quart glass jars, taped a Lottie Moon
Christmas envelope on each one and invited the congregation to
take one, put a dollar each week inside and, during December of
that year, bring them to the altar with their $65 for foreign
missions. That year our offering for Lottie Moon Offering
increased $4,000. Many kept jars for several years, bringing their
gifts each December.
October 2, 1988, Richard and Margie Gore celebrated their 40th
wedding anniversary.
Everyone loves the zoo so the children visited the zoo. They
talked so much about it that, later in the year, the Golden Circle
and Old Faithful classes went too.
The church had a couples retreat at Cedar Lake Camp in
Livingston. Following the retreat, Bro. Dave began a two-month
family emphasis with the Sunday School classes. It was very
productive and well attended.
Again we had a super group in Bible Drill. State winners were
Candy Stanley, Christy Hutchings, Rita Maynard, Rachel Stewart
and Amanda Austin.
In July, the children presented a musical, “The Family Tree.” Bro.
Dave conducted a week of backyard Bible club in Mount Vernon
using the girls who were in the musical. They had a better time
than the RA boys, who went to Center Hill Lake fishing – they
were invaded with skunks!
Our pastor had a ball when he took the senior adults to the State
Fair…not only our adults but all those at the bottom of the hill
waiting. After three trips, he did get up enough courage to tell
the people he wasn’t running a taxi service and found his Bear
Cove group waiting and laughing at him.
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Everyone received a blessing from the film, Twice Pardoned, as
well as the fall revival with James Bond and Wayne Ray.
In 1989, the 50th wedding celebrations of two church couples
were held: Paul and Florida Goff and Sherman and Clydell Cope.
This year during RA Week, many attended the Men/Boys Bowling
Tournament.
Our hearts were saddened by the untimely death of Mr. Richard
Gore in October, 1989.
During December 1989, we had a church-wide mission study on
Japan, a children’s musical, youth traveling to Atlanta in the snow,
a candlelight Lord’s Supper, and the choir presenting “Call Him
Jesus” both at our church and at BonDeCroft.
1990
In 1990, Southern Baptists made a concerted effort to tell the
world “Here’s Hope.” This endeavor culminated with
simultaneous revivals with Bear Cove’s held March 18-23. Bro.
Don Owens led the revival with Dan Farris leading the music. It
was a great week – the building was almost filled each evening.
Several made professions of faith and many lives were
rededicated. Our pastor said, “Governments fall, the economy is
uncertain, man is unstable, the stones we stand on crumble but
there’s hope. Jesus is the big ROCK! As we enter a new decade,
here’s hope Sparta.”
The children of the church were excited about Winterfest, which
began January 6 and continued every Saturday from 9-12 a.m.
This was a wonderful character building experience, along with
refreshments, games and activities.
Melissa did a great job teaching our State Mission Study. Fortyfour enjoyed the learning experience about Tennessee missions.
Our B-1 campaign was successful. We wanted YOU to B-1 in
Sunday School so we could reach 170 in attendance and we
surpassed this goal.
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Our RA’s enjoyed a great camp out…don’t know about the
leaders, heard they had a time trying to find two who wandered
off, only to learn they were just hiding.
Bro. Tommy Curtis held our fall revival. He is from North Shore
Park, New York, doing mission work. Bro. Tommy was Bro. Dave’s
first pastor in Lancaster, PA.
Our second annual children’s retreat was enjoyed at Cedars of
Lebanon State Park. The 28 kids had two days of “Growing God’s
Way.”
Our Baptist Women heard Mrs. Ferrell Underwood of Kingston
share about her work with Bledsoe County Prison Ministry. This
was the second year of preparing prison bags for this facility.
We had a great Christmas musical, as well as a super children’s
and youth musical and play. It wouldn’t have happened without
great volunteers.
1991
The year of 1991 began with the January Bible Study. The study
was held on Wednesday evenings in January. We had an average
of 48 attending, even though it was very cold.
Shirley Farley returned to Mali, Africa, the second poorest country
in the world. She enjoyed her furlough back home. Again, she
left loaded down with supplies that she needs in her work there.
The Tennessee Tech Ensemble blessed hearts as they had the
worship on Sunday evening.
March 2 was such an inspired morning worship service. The choir
presented “Calvary’s Love,” which touched hearts throughout the
congregation.
April 9-13 each morning, Bro. Dave conducted a “Spring Fling” for
all middle school children at the middle school football field. Tons
were there and had a tremendous time.
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Bro. Gary Heron, Director of Missions, Dallas, Texas, led our fall
revival. He was a super evangelist to the Christian people, as well
as to the unchurched.
August 13, Stancel and Clarice Stewart celebrated their 40th
wedding anniversary in the church fellowship hall.
The annual “Kickoff Dinner” was held in September. All new
officers, teachers, budget, and committees were accepted for the
new year. A luscious meal was enjoyed and a delightful program
followed.
“Once Upon a Christmas Tree” was shared on Sunday evening by
our youth and children. Cliff and Sharon Stanley were directors
and it was great.
A group of adults traveled to Immanuel Baptist in Lebanon to hear
their Christmas musical, “Call Him Jesus.”
December 23 was an eventful day. Ryan Shelley, a precious 17
month old toddler, became the son of Bro. Dave and Melissa.
Wow! What a Christmas gift. He won the hearts of the entire
congregation. As he grew, he became more loving…he hugged
the legs of most of the men and older boys in our church. Of
course, the ladies and girls spoiled him, too.
The choir presented “Sing Noel” on Christmas Eve morning.
Our Church Training averaged 95 during November and
December, 1991.
1992
A van load of men braved the weather and attended Layman’s
Night of the Evangelism Conference at Belmont Heights in
Nashville. They came back all charged up, and we enjoyed a great
Baptist Men’s Day on Sunday. They had 34 for breakfast for men
and boys and did an outstanding job with the music and speakers.
57
Ladies’ Day was a hit. Four men prepared breakfast for the ladies
of the church and 43 hungry ladies did their job of cleaning up the
food. The preacher said they ate more than the men.
Our pastor led a prayer group at the White County High School
cafeteria each Tuesday at 7:30 am. A group of about 20 were
there each week and the students continued inviting others.
We learned in May that a great lady, Mary King, passed on to
heaven after a long and painful illness. She was full of life and
never met a person that she didn’t like. Our love and sympathy
was extended to Bro. King and family. Again the month of May
focused on our senior adults. This year’s theme was “Heritage,
Happiness, and Hope.” Sunday was Senior Adult Day. Monday
was an all- day trip through the east Tennessee backroads, visiting
historic Jonesborough. Tuesday was WMU day. Wednesday
afternoon, the group went bowling. Thursday was the book
study, “Heritage, Happiness and Hope.” The group then had lunch
at Rock Island. They were grateful to Bro. Dave for sharing so
much time with them.
The church participated in an area-wide revival led by evangelist,
Harold Hunter, which was well attended. Bro. Hunter has held
several revivals in this area.
June means VBS and we had a great one, enrolling over 200.
The last meal to raise funds for the New York mission trip was in
June. With the collecting of drink cans, the meals and some
private donations, we had enough monies to go on the trip with
no expense to the church.
With plans laid, each person knowing their responsibility, and
excitement in the air, the group of mission volunteers headed out
to impact Long Island, New York, and North Shore Baptist Church
with God’s message. What a success it was! The members there
were so appreciative of the group from Tennessee. Our people
stayed in a college dorm (sleeping on bunks), gathered supplies
early each morning and did four backyard Bible clubs daily. The
evenings were spent conducting a two- hour VBS with help from
the local church. They had a record large attendance, and the
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church was filled on the following Sunday morning as the group
was in charge of the service. It was an action-filled week. The
group was tired, but it was a joy to witness the happiness in the
faces of the children and workers at North Shore when the
groupleft for home. God surely blessed this mission trip.
“M” Night was held at Bear Cove with Jerry Sutton of Two Rivers
Church speaking.
1993
March 7, 1993, a commissioning service was held for Jerry Pullum
who had surrendered to the ministry.
An eventful day happened on April 4. BonDeCroft Baptist Mission
became a church. The service of constitution included Gary Allen,
Bro. Johnnie Lee, Shelley Dodson, Larry Frasier, Stancel Stewart,
Bro. James Lee, Ryan Sparkman, Dave Shelley and Hank Gougen.
Bondecroft Baptist Church
Our senior adults enjoyed a trip to Atlanta and points of interest
in the area.
Who will forget the special friendship dinner with “Aunt Mattie.”
What a fun evening those present had. We thanked Gary and
Janie Allen for getting her here for some ole time good
entertainment.
The Shelleys were honored at a reception for their 5th anniversary
at Bear Cove.
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Summer Nights began with 6 weeks of special studies, fellowships
and new things that haven’t been done in our church. Those in
attendance loved every Sunday evening.
Our church lost its steeple for a few hours as a new roof was
installed.
The church welcomed “The Praise Quartet” on Sunday evening,
July 10.
What a blessing the Dave Dravecky story was.
Jerry and Laura Pullum left for Texas and Southwestern Seminary.
Two exciting studies were attended in Discipleship Training:
Experiencing God and Step by Step Through the New Testament.
Bear Cove was 5th in the state with study course awards.
An organ committee was appointed to search out the best organ
for the church.
Another highlight of the church year was when Carlos and Myrtis
Owen came to speak as retired missionaries from various
countries. Their experiences were unforgettable. It was a great
missions day!
This year’s Foreign Mission study was outstanding, thanks to Jo
Ann Frasier.
Our Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goal was $3,000. We
received $4,000!
Our holiday musicals were so good from the children’s to the
adults. God blessed our church with many willing people to work
with our choirs.
1994
Our youth were treated to a visit to the state capitol in Nashville.
Dr. James Draper was guest speaker for the Evangelism
Conference. Our men enjoyed the service.
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The WMU sponsored an oriental meal and mission video for the
Home Mission Study.
Hillie Miller, pastor of Sevier Heights and good friend of Bro. Dave,
was our revival speaker and did a great job. Several decisions
were made for Christ.
Our Acteens were privileged to attend the annual Summit
meeting in Birmingham, AL.
A usual, Senior Adult Week was special. They enjoyed a book
study and visited Huntsville and Constitutional Village in Alabama.
On Friday, they had a picnic at Edgar Evans State Park.
The pastor, in a business meeting, encouraged the church to start
a scholarship fund for ministerial students from Bear Cove Church.
A motion was made and passed and the church voted to send
Jerry Pullum $100 each month while he was in seminary.
What a delightful day…it was Children’s Day at Bear Cove. Their
teachers and leaders were recognized; the children were the day’s
choir; and the message was for the children. Later, they were
treated to a pizza party.
Bear Cove ministered to over 200 kids at neighborhood clubs.
What better training could our youth and children do for kingdom
work?
Eddy and Phylene Stewart, along with Norma Kirby and Kelly
Kirby, took our youth to Super Summer Camp in Charleston, South
Carolina. This was a great experience, just a long way!
Hickory Valley Baptist was our guest this Thanksgiving. We had a
yummy dinner, then were blessed with the program Hickory
Valley presented. Bro. Doug Benningfield was the special speaker.
December was such a special month with all our Christmas
musicals and plays, plus the Foreign Mission speakers and our
study. Our Lottie Moon goal for the year was $4500.
December 28, 1994, the ordination service for Jerry Michael
Pullum was held. Dr. Joe Wiles, BSU Director at Tennessee Tech,
brought the ordination message. Other program personnel were
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Bro. Dave Shelley, Larry Frasier, Laura and Mike Pullum. A
reception was held for everyone present. Jerry was in his second
year at Southwestern Seminary, Dallas and was pastoring a church
in Oklahoma.
1995
It seems 1995 was the year for missions in Bear Cove Church. We
started out by saying goodbye to Bill and Tracy Crosland as they
were leaving for two years to serve in Mali, Africa, in ISC sports
ministry. This is a program of our Home and Foreign Missions
Boards. They received their shots, special medications, passports
and were given permission and God’s speed to go to Mali on their
own. The church and individuals helped in their support. Like
Shirley, our other missionary in Mali, we sent them off loaded
down with all kinds of supplies and food that they would be proud
of once they arrived because not very much can be purchased in
this part of Africa. Our prayers and blessings went with this young
couple as they journeyed into unknown territory.
Well, it came and it came and it came. Hail came down like rain
one Thursday in 1995. Never have we received anything falling
from the sky quite like it! Bear Cove community got its share.
Yes, it could have been worse, and the damages to the church and
parsonage were minimal. In the auditorium, we had 5 stained
glass windows broken completely out. We had dozens of small
stained glass panes cracked. The roof and arrival port received
damages. The roof on the parsonage was damaged, as well as the
patio cover. The newly planted flowers were shredded. It looked
like fall, so many leaves were on the ground, but we were so
grateful the tornado did not touch down. We were in prayer for
those people who were not as fortunate as we were.
We continued adding new people to our fellowship at Bear Cove.
It was so wonderful to see people eager to want to work and
serve the Lord here.
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What a joy that we had so many children registered for summer
programs that the church saw fit to give Bro. Dave added help.
The personnel committee added $600 to the program!
Our children’s retreat at Pickett County Park was an awesome
time. It was our first visit to this camp and it was great! Our boys
and girls were so well behaved and we had some wonderful
learning experiences. We thanked God for the help that went
along to cook and keep us straight.
Mrs. Cheryl Webster took the GA girls to Camp Carson for a three
day time of mission activities and learning about God’s will for
their lives. Six young ladies enjoyed the time well spent.
Miss Jo Anne Thompkins, missionary to Gambia, blessed hearts as
she shared about Southern Baptist work and the ministries that
were going on in that part of the world.
Fourteen members of the church traveled to Marietta, Oklahoma,
for a week of mission work. They helped former member, Jerry
Pullum, conduct Vacation Bible School. He was serving as the
pastor of the church.
Evangelist, Malcome McDow was our revival speaker in 1995.
Bear Cove church experienced a rare ministry. Dr. Jody Hue took
the congregation on a lengthy “Walk Through the Bible.” It was
awesome.
The men and boys scooted off to another Promise Keepers
Conference in Atlanta.
1996
The Acteens were invited by Tennessee WMU and the Home
Mission Board to assist in a special camp to be held in June. This
was indeed an honor.
February brought WMU Focus Week as well as “Friend Day” in
Sunday School.
My, my, what a trip! Our adults took a tour to Milky Way
Mansion in Pulaski. What a house- twenty-one bedrooms, twelve
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baths and the largest dining table in TN. Yes, they had food
samples for the 21 touring.
May was always Senior Adult Week and this year was no
exception. Sunday morning the group was honored to have Bro.
Bob Mowery as special speaker. Monday they enjoyed a picnic,
Tuesday was WMU day, Wednesday was the book study and
Thursday was a trip to East Tennessee and lots of interesting
things to see and do.
Our high school graduates in 1996 were Luke Allen, Amanda
Austin, David Cole, Richard Lewis, Rita Maynard, and Candy
Stanley. Graduating from Southwestern was Jerry M. Pullum.
Our children enjoyed a trip to Knoxville and Celebration Station.
Hearts were blessed by a group of young men from Nashville,
“Men of Faith Singers.”
The Wednesday evening Bible study in June and July was In God’s
Presence.
August 6, in Bro. Dave’s absence our guest speaker was former
member, Jerry Pullum.
August 25 ….. our 85th Anniversary and Homecoming ’96! It had
been ten years since we had a church anniversary. And it was an
exciting day. We had 25 pastors during those 85 years. The first
12 were preaching once a month, the next 6 served bi-monthly.
Our first full-time pastor was Bro. Grady Craddock in 1957. The
next 5 served a span of 30 years. Then came Bro. Dave. Special
speakers were Bro. Vance King and Bro. Donny Stewart. The day
was filled with meeting and greeting folks we hadn’t seen in a
long time and enjoying all the good singing and fellowship, not to
mention the wonderful lunch that everyone raved about. It was
an awesome time of togetherness.
We welcomed Miss Vickie Anderson, TN leader in WMU as Golden
State Mission Speaker. Vicki was a bus kid of Bro. Dave’s when he
was in Lebanon.
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The church was blessed to have Bro. Herb Pederson as our revival
leader.
Each year before school began, our children were invited to
participate in a retreat. This year almost 30 children had a great
time learning, playing and sharing.
Resident membership at the end of 1996 was 514. Total baptisms
were 11 and joining by letter and statement was 22. Total
receipts were $244,844. Sunday School enrollment was 280 and
the average attendance in Sunday School was 170.
June of ’96 Bill and Tracy Crosland were so into their work in Mali
that they encouraged others from the church to join them for a
couple of weeks. It didn’t take much encouraging for Ray Allen
Maynard and Mark Frasier to give in. Actually, they were
chomping at the bits to go, long before Tracy asked for help. They
left June 6th and were both shocked and impressed. Shocked at
the quality of life in Mali, but impressed with the fun- loving
nature of the Malian teenagers and young adults. It was an
unforgettable trip for both these young men.
The Charles Fuson family presented a nice courtyard bench in
memory of Mr. Jimmy Lintz.
The youth enjoyed a camping trip to Fall Creek Falls.
June meant school was out and Summerfest began. This year
there were more than 50 children experiencing the time of their
lives. They learned Bible, character- building stories, playtime,
water fights, swimming and just good fun outdoors in the hot sun.
Bro. Dave lost his voice, he yelled so much.
This year the church enjoyed the quietness of Golden Mountain
Park for the church-wide picnic.
Our Jr. High gang braved the darkness of Cumberland Caverns for
the night. No one walked in their sleep or got lost. They left the
following day for Fall Creek Falls and a day of hiking.
The Johnson sisters were recognized for their many years of
faithful attendance and ministry at the church. A certificate was
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presented to Mrs. Thelma, Mrs. Jessie, Mrs. Cora, Mrs. Myrtle,
and Mrs. Jeanette.
December 2-20, 1996, Bro. Dave and Steve Webster were
sponsored by the church to Pskov, Russia. The plane ride was
long; the language in Pskov was difficult to understand; the food
was a real experience, especially for the preacher - he is a picky
eater. Steve managed. They stayed in various homes and fell in
love with the families who were helping them. The adults were
kind and humorous; the children so very loving. They had no idea
that the people would be so responsive and eager to learn more
about God’s Word. Classes were usually held in the mornings, so
they did have some time to travel and see some awesome
historical sites. It was a time and a trip that will forever be a
blessing.
1997
January of 1997 began very snowy. Temperatures were below
normal and services had to be called off one Sunday morning and
another Sunday and Wednesday evening.
February brought warmer weather. The Valentine Sweetheart
Banquet was well attended and the meal was delightful.
Bro. Gary and the choir presented “Magnify the Cross” Easter
morning. The house was full and Jesus was truly magnified!
Mrs. Melissa and the Acteen girls had a pancake breakfast that
was so good. All monies received went toward the Summit
Meeting trip.
May 12 was the grand finale of Kids Klub for the year.
The associational evangelism conference met at Bear Cove with
Bro. Jimmy Napier of Woodstock, GA, as guest speaker. Bear
Cove had a very good number to attend.
Our mission organizations collected $1500 to purchase peanuts
and millet for hundreds who lost 8 months of food in a fire. This
was in Mali, Africa, and they were really hurting.
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Gary Allen Appreciation Day was Sunday, September 28, 1997. He
didn’t have a clue the church was going to surprise him. Things
had been planned to the tee. Bro. Gerald Stow was here for the
message; Bro. Gary’s parents and other family members were
present; and he was presented a scrapbook with cards and letters
from members and a monetary gift.
When God Speaks was the Wednesday evening study for
September and October. Our Thanksgiving guest was Liberty
Baptist Church. The food was yummy, the fellowship sweet, and
Bro. Judd and the special singer were a blessing.
Foreign Missions Day featured our own. Morning worship was
held by Bill Crosland as he shared about their work in Mali. Tracy
Crosland did the evening worship telling about the life, customs
and culture of the Malian people.
Jo Ann Frasier led the Foreign Mission study, “Church Nurturing
Missionaries.” Our goal for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
was $6500. We reached $8000. This was the most we had ever
given.
We were thankful for the choir and the presentation of “Sounds
of Christmas.” What a joy it was to see and hear the singing and
watch the drama unfold. The flags were beautiful and a
meaningful addition. The audience stood and applauded several
minutes. It was breathtaking! Then how sweet the children sang
that evening. They knew the words, the music - it was amazing
and we cannot put into words how much they blessed hearts.
1998
The new year of 1998 was another cold one. It was almost
impossible for some of our older members to brave the snow and
ice to come to church. However, we did have January Bible study
on Wednesdays and it was an interesting study.
February brought more snow and the valentine banquet had to be
postponed. The latter part of the month, we had a church-wide
birthday party to help our youth with camp expenses. Each
person sat at the table of the month they were born. Twelve
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tables were decorated nicely with a birthday cake on each table.
After a delicious meal, the group was blessed by Jeff Randolph
and buddies as they sang and played oldies.
The Shelleys were surprised on Sunday, May 10th. The church
honored them on their 10th anniversary at Bear Cove. Terri
rehearsed with the choir as usual. When she invited the
congregation to stand Bro. Tommy and Virginia Curtis (his former
pastor), Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Brown (Melissa’s parents) and several
other out-of-town friends came out of the side room to sit with
the Shelleys. Mr. Ralph then proceeded to be Gary Allen for the
day. After singing “Happy Anniversary to You,” Larry Frasier
welcomed the congregation. Then the fun started, Rita Maynard
did her humorous thing about Bro. Dave and Kids Klub. She then
presented him with a Kinkade painting. Mark Frasier did
imitations of Bro. Dave and tidbits and presented him with a gift.
Mrs. Helen got in a few jabs from the senior adults and,
afterwards, presented him with a Bible. Linda Moorehead sang a
special song to the Shelleys. The message was delivered by Bro.
Tommy from Lancaster, PA as he shared things we didn’t know
about Dave when he had more energy and lots more hair.
Following the message, Melissa was presented red roses by Eddy
Stewart, and Joyce Floyd did the presentation of a scrapbook to
them both. It was a good day for everyone. A reception was held
downstairs and services for the evening were cancelled.
June 21 was a great Father’s Day! This funny was in the bulletin:
A SHORT FATHER’S DAY STORY
Grandfather had a farm; father had a garden; son has a can
opener.
July 4th a mission team left for a most needed mission trip. The
Home Mission Board was begging churches to go help in the
Mississippi River Ministry. This was to be for several years as the
needs were desperate. The team traveled to Clarksdale, MS
(Cloray Collins’ home town) but the ministry was in Mount Olive
Baptist Church in Jonestown, about 15 miles from the hotel.
Never had the folks from Bear Cove seen such a need for Bible
school. Everyone did their best - the children who were bussed in
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were used to doing as they pleased and they kind of did. Before
the end of the week, the y settled down some and, with patience
and kindness, they realized the mission team was there because
they loved them. The team was told not to be there after 6 pm in
the evening, it wasn’t safe. As the team traveled back to Sparta,
there were tons of stories being told and they were surely all just
as they experienced them. This ministry could still be going on
ten years from 1998.
Jonestown, Mississippi VBS 1998
July 18th Bro. Dave, Rita Maynard, Terri Pollard, Seth Webster, and
Clint Isbell left for Camp Linden and All Nations Camp.
Retiring deacons-Herman Frasier, Candler Erwin, Paul Goff
1999
The last year of this century was ushered in with ice and snow.
January is usually our coldest month and this one proved us right.
The pastor was given a third week of vacation and increased the
pulpit supply amount by $150.00.
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Some men of the church met with a representative of TVA to
secure a survey of our heating and cooling needs. TVA prepared a
study to determine the tonnage required to meet our needs.
A long range planning building committee was discussed and with
the committee to be named in the near future.
Jo Ann Frasier shared about a study group that had just
completed “Experiencing God”, and Tamara Holland then
explained that the group was very interested in starting a prayer
program involving the church membership with the primary goal
being an intimate love relationship with the Lord for each church
member.
May 5, 1999 had been a nice day until about 5:30 in the
afternoon. The sky turned black, the winds began blowing, rain
and hail started falling and the Kirby family living across from the
church building saw an unforgettable sight. A tornado touched
down and they witnessed the church steeple fall right through the
roof of the main sanctuary. Then Cora Johnson’s garage was
picked up and hurled through the sky landing on the hill behind
her house. It took only a split second for all the damage to be
done. However, the rains continued to come down. When it was
safe enough to venture outside, the Kirbys went to church to view
the destruction. Our lovely worship center was in shambles. You
could look up and see the sky from the huge hole in the roof, the
carpet was soaked, the pews littered with glass, pieces of decking,
pieces of roofing, tin and aluminum. Water was seeping through
the floor into the basement. It was a mess unlike none this family
had seen. After notifying other members, soon a host of people
gathered trying to help, but where did we start? That night,
nothing was done except talking, the next day we notified the
insurance company and from there things begin to happen. Tim
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Clark came with his wet vac and worked tireless hours vacuuming
water in the fellowship hall. A crane lifted the remains of the
steeple, carpenters began repairing the decking and roof - at least
it would be dry inside if it started raining again. Of course, it took
much longer to get new carpet, refinish pews, repair stained glass
windows, etc. It took most of 1999 and into the year 2000 to get
things back to normal. God was good, our insurance was GREAT!
Our expense was very little.
The Kirby family lost 14 trees in the storm and eight faithful and
caring members came and helped saw up the tress to be hauled
away. They helped not only the Kirbys, but went on up the street
helping the Englands and the Farleys. It was a tired gang of
helpers who drug themselves home that night. They were angels
sent from above!
The proposed budget for the new year was $185,518.
2000
The new year was ushered in with gladness. A new century, 2000,
and a new church year, with lots of newness all around. Although
the building and grounds were still having repairs both on the
church building and on the parsonage, things were looking up.
January Bible study was led by the pastor and was well attended.
A large group of men and boys went to the annual Evangelism
Conference in Nashville to hear great speakers from Texas,
Arkansas and Tennessee.
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Landon took the youth to the Youth Evangelism Conference in
Murfreesboro for an overnight session. Twenty-three youth and
adults enjoyed the conference.
The church finally got the new steeple. It was exciting watching
the large crane lift the steeple from the truck and place it just
right on the roof. It took most of the day and many sight-seekers
were entertained as they watched. The new steeple was
somewhat larger than the one destroyed by the tornado. It came
from Campbellsville, KY.
Bear Cove was a willing participant in the two year WMU,
TRANSFORMED. The WMU at Bear Cove conducted the birthday
party at NHC, collected one hundred prison bags, sent one
member to help with the annual Christmas party held at Bledsoe
Federal Prison, helped prepare a meal for carnival workers who
came to Sparta with the White County Fair, and three members
traveled to Donaldson, TN for special training. Our church is the
only church in Union Association who has Women on Mission,
Acteens, GA’s and Mission Friends.
Again, our senior adults headed off for an overnight trip to Atlanta
to watch the Braves beat the Phillies, only to get disappointed.
They lost, however Bro. Dave was glad. The whole group had a
nice trip and a good old time.
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In June, a team from Bear Cove taught VBS at First Baptist Church
in Westcliffe, Colorado. Shelley Dodson, Connie Kirby, Dave and
Melissa Shelley and Ryan, H.L. and Norma Kirby, and Steve and
Cheryl Webster spent the mornings with the families and children
of Westcliffe and the afternoons visiting and seeing Pikes Peak
and Royal Gorge. Bro. Dave even caught his first fish in a Colorado
stream!
Our children enjoyed a couple of exciting trips. They visited the
Nashville Zoo and then, along with our preschoolers, went to the
“Pumpkin Patch” and had a blast riding on the wagon to a hot dog
roast. The older kids did the corn maze and no one got left in the
corn patch.
Our church appreciates the Payne family who so graciously let the
Wednesday evening gang come to their picnic area for the
October cookout. Mr. Claude Bradley brought his tractor and
wagon for anyone who wanted to ride up the mountain. For
many of our kids, this was their first hayride. This year was special.
The campfire songs were neat and several people shared what
they loved about Bear Cove Church. Gary Allen blessed our hearts
as he shared so many things that he thought was unique about
our congregation.
This year, we did not invite another church to join in the
Thanksgiving dinner. We have already invited all the churches that
are our size or smaller. We just went along and had a great time.
Bro. Dave had an interesting program following the meal.
2001
Since September of 1987, Gary and Janie Allen and their boys had
been such a vital part of Bear Cove Church. It was with sad hearts
that Bro. Gary resigned as music director. Where had thirteen
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years gone? We were so blessed by Gary and the professional way
he led our worship services. Thinking back on all the good times
we had rehearsing for Easter and Christmas musicals it made us
say, “Thank you God for allowing this great family to have been a
part of not only our church life, but our personal lives as well.”
One of the first things in January of 2001 was who can we get to
help us until we find a music minister? A committee of five was
appointed to conduct the search for the right person.
Terri Dickerson was contacted to see if she would be interested in
leading our choir and the congregational singing until we filled the
position permanently. Don Blalock, chairman of the music search
committee, suggested, after talking with the deacons and the
personnel committee, that the church hire Terri as interim music
director. It was stated she had been doing a fine job since Gary
resigned. The church voted unanimously to hire Terri.
Bro. Dave led a group of adults and youth on a mission trip to
Carlyle, PA to lead a children’s camp. We visited Amish country
and Bro. Dave showed us where he grew up in Lancaster!
The football frenzy Sunday School contest ended with the Golden
Circle class winning the regular season in attendance. The four
Sundays in January (play offs) were won on Super Bowl Sunday by
the Toddler class. They just beat out the Agape class.
From the deacons, Larry Frasier shared that fund raising outside
the congregation wasn’t a positive thing for Bear Cove. If a need
existed, the church really needed to be made aware of it and
possibly someone or a group would be eager to fund the need.
This does not apply to meals, car washes, etc. within the church
congregation. There was no need for a motion - this was just an
item that needed addressing. Several years prior to this date, a
motion was made to this effect.
It was decided that our old faithful church van needed to be
retired. She was no longer safe unless much money was to come
to her aid. It was agreed to take her off the road and she sat at
Garry Parker’s place a short while until some good man chose to
buy her. She will never know how proud of her we were when she
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was new. Her first trip was to an associational meeting at Boiling
Springs. Jerry Self drove her and at least two from our church
went along, Clarice Stewart and Norma Kirby. You always
remember your very first vehicle and she was the churches first
van! Oh, the man gave $600 for her.
Bro. Lofton Graves was selected as our new Director of Missions
of Union Baptist Association. He was a retired minister from
Spencer First Baptist.
The deacon/staff Christmas dinner was held at Yanni’s. Bro. Dave,
as usual, had mind-boggling games and the group had a barrel of
fun and the food yummy good. Bro. Dave presented Braves tee
shirts to Mr. Bill England and Mrs. Helen. They love the Braves
and, if Mr. Bill’s doctors were correct, this would be the last
deacon dinner he would be able to attend. The doctors were
right, Mr. Bill didn’t make it another Christmas. He was a real
gentleman and friend. He was in charge of our sound system,
served as a deacon and was loved by everyone.
2002
Our chimes were destroyed in the tornado and Mrs. Helen
wanted to purchase the chimes in memory of Mr. Bill. The chimes
are so familiar to those who live near the church as well as all the
golfers. The church appreciates Mrs. Helen for this deed of
kindness.
Terri agreed to stay on as music director since the committee had
not found one that is suitable for our church. Everyone was
grateful for Terri.
Since May of 1988, the church has been blessed with a man of
God who truly loves the Lord and wants to do for others. It
doesn’t matter to Bro. Dave the status in society, the color of skin,
the wealth or poverty of a person or the age of an individual. He
doesn’t make a difference in people. He tries to make a difference
in their lives. If he can do this by picking up a little boy or girl and
taking them to McDonalds, fine. If he can do this by taking a van
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load of senior adults cross country, fine. Words cannot adequately
define Dave Shelley. He is a winner, anyone can lose. For fourteen
years, Bear Cove has been a winner. He came to stay twenty
years, but after fourteen he, Melissa and Ryan have decided it
was time to move on. The church had a farewell dinner June 26,
2002.
He was given a riding lawnmower for the big lawn he would have
to mow at his new home in Rockvale. He became the pastor of
West Wood Baptist Church, Murfreesboro. Bro. Dave will be
missed, but not soon forgotten. Thank you, Shelleys, for fourteen
years of ministry. During tenure, the church added over 300 new
members, led us in hands on missions, We have been on mission
trips to Knoxville, Nashville, Georgia, New York, Colorado,
Oklahoma, Gatlinburg, Ohio, Michigan, Mississippi, Pennsylvania,
and Russia. Many hours have been spent and many children been
introduced to the love of Christ through Bible Clubs throughout
White County.
Steve and Cheryl Webster lead another group of adults and youth
to Pennsylvania to teach VBS just outside of Philadelphia. Gail and
David Wilson, Eddy and Phylene, Stephanie Owen, Rebekah
Webster, Chassidy Widner, Angie England, and Matthew England
taught VBS and drove the vans to pick up children in several
neighborhoods.
The next five months were again an opportunity to hear various
ministers and singing groups. Our church leaders filled the pulpit
much of the time. Steve Webster did an outstanding job several
Sundays and on Wednesday evenings. Other men filled in and,
with a few guest speakers, the church went along just fine. Ten
additions were added to the church membership. The church year
ended with total budget being $211,215 and $40,300 went to
mission causes.
Early in November, the new search committee, after traveling to
various places, found themselves at Baileyton Baptist Church in
East TN. The person that they had gone to hear was a hometown
boy who was well known in Sparta and White County - Jerry
Pullum. Jerry had grown up mostly in Bear Cove Church. He
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graduated from WCHS, TN Tech, and Southwestern Seminary.
Jerry had pastored churches in Oklahoma, Central Baptist in
Cookeville, TN, and then in Baileyton. The committee invited Bro.
Jerry and family back to Bear Cove for a visit. He spoke briefly at
our annual Thanksgiving dinner, then brought the message the
following Sunday morning. Everyone was thrilled with the young
man, voting to extend a call to Bro.Jerry as our eighth full-time
minister. After much thought and prayer, the Pullums, Jerry,
Laura, Jesse, Micah, and Kami, moved into the church parsonage
in December.
Bro. Jerry Pullum
2003
His first message as pastor was January 3, 2003. Bro Jerry’s desire
was for every member to be or to become a minister to those
around them. His focus on church growth was imminent, both
numerical and spiritual.
Things and events were still going strong. In February, several
couples attended a marriage retreat at Fair Field Glade, we
participated in an associational simultaneous revival, the ladies
began a Beth Moore study, and the YEAH puppet team got a
boost from members by purchasing new materials. Tamara
Holland and a few helpers worked hard preparing a prayer room
and an intercessory prayer ministry was started. It was very
effective for quite a long time.
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A deacon/wife retreat was held with John Temple leading the
study on developing a deacon ministry.
Our Easter musical was beautiful, “The Day He Wore My Crown.”
In April, Bro. Jerry and family purchased a new home and the
parsonage was put into good use. Classrooms began meeting in at
least three rooms and downstairs.
In 2003, our graduating seniors from WCHS were Zach Broyles,
Matt England, Tom McKee, Stephanie Owen, Hilary Parks and
Rebekah Webster.
Something that had never been tried at our church, spearheaded
by Steve and Tamara Holland, was “Fun in the Son” which was
hopefully going to be a great outreach program. It involved about
65 helpers operating fun events: photo taking, popcorn stands,
snow cones, jumping balloons, dragon slide, and much more.
People came by the dozens, a brief devotion was held, our Garry
Parker/Claude Bradley band played and the afternoon and
evening was a time of fun and adventure for so many kids as well
as parents.
Shelley Dodson served as our VBS Director. Son Harvest County
Fair was the theme. We enrolled l89 children, and they all enjoyed
it. Rebekah Webster and Tom McKee conducted our Music fest,
which went along with the VBS program. These two also were
responsible for the leadership of our summer program,
Summerfest, that Bro. Dave had started.
We lost a great prayer warrior when Mrs. Florida Goff left us to
begin her reign in heaven. She passed away June 15, 2003.
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Townsend Campgrounds will never be the same. Thirty-one
workers spent a week there doing summer missions day and
night. It was great. Bear Cove sent teams to Townsend for four
summers to teach, witness to, play games with, and love campers.
Townsend, TN
Lee Street Day Camp was held with a big Block Party held on
family night. Lots of children came and several parents came to
eat on Thursday.
Bro. Jerry introduced a great program to the congregation that his
former association had participated in, GROW TRAINING and
FAITH STUDY. The study was shared on Sunday afternoons and
everyone was invited to participate. About fifty members
attended the study, and this was the beginning of an outreach
program that lasted for seven years. Each Monday evening at 6:00
PM, GROW was held. Some wrote letters while others made visits.
It was a very successful outreach program.
At the end of the 2002-2003 associational year, the church had
baptized 9 and added 15 by letter and statement.
In October, Scott and Audra Foshie from Greenville were invited
to Bear Cove Church for a trial staff member working with youth
and music. They were well received, and Scott, as well as Audra,
was very talented musically. He played the piano, she sang. They
were a gifted couple whom the church fell in love with. The
church voted 98 percent to call these young people to help in the
ministry at our church. They arrived in January 2004 to begin
work.
Many of our people were involved in a program held annually at
the high school. The Happening is a great event for all our youth.
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Our puppet team, YEAH, traveled to Woodcliff Church and to a
middle school in Dunlap ministering to many.
Our Lottie Moon Christmas goal was $7,500 and Bro. Bud Fray
was our special mission speaker.
After 25 years of serving as the church secretary, Mrs. Norma
Kirby decided to say goodbye and just stay home to cook for her
family, H.L., Aundrea and Darek. A great reception was held on
Sunday evening in her honor with several special guests present.
2004
The church began 2004 with a super music and youth minister,
Scott Foshie. He was awesome with the choir as well as being a
wonderful worship leader. Scott played the piano and Audra sang
beautifully. Our church was blessed to have them. In addition to
music, he also worked with the youth program, and did a fine job
there also.
Scott, Audra, and Lydia Foshie
Our FAITH and GROW programs were doing great. The attendance
for outreach was improving and we heard many positive
comments concerning these ministries.
On January 26, 2004, the church needed a church secretary and
was doubly blessed when Carole Emerton was the one selected to
fill this position. She was a quiet young lady with experience in
computers and keeping records. She and her daughter, Amanda,
had been members of Bear Cove for a long time. Carole’s
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grandmother was a faithful member, as well as several aunts and
uncles.
A fund was started to purchase a projection system for the
sanctuary. The estimated cost was $15,000.
Our youth enjoyed a “Super Bowl” party at the Foshies. Our YEAH
puppet team blessed everyone Sunday evening with their ministry
program. They went to Life Care the next Sunday to perform for
the patients. They loved it. These young people were appreciated
so much for their dedication to rehearse, and also the leaders:
Mark and Jana McKee, Tim and Brenda Brown, and David and Gail
Wilson.
Debbie Ward asked for clothing for children of all ages as they
were needed when children were taken from their homes due to
meth labs.
Awana continued to be a vital part of our church children’s
program thanks to all the faithful workers. Tracy and Bill Crosland
were great leaders with about 40 wonderful helpers.
It was suggested that we have greeters at each door to greet
those attending services. Special training was available for those
who would volunteer for this ministry.
Doyle Methodist Church invited our YEAH team to come and give
a program for their entire congregation. The team was thrilled to
go.
Our youth attended the Gaither Homecoming trip, and they
actually enjoyed it. This type of singing isn’t just for old people, is
it?
Fun in the Son again was a hit. All the same people, plus a few
extras, helped as this special event touched lots of White
Countians. The band played, games were enjoyed, lots of good
food was available, Bill Crosland did a brief Bible message and for
6 hours several hundred folks were ministered to.
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In August, Bro. Jerry invited Mike Vallie, Creation Scientist, for a
four-day seminar on the age of the earth, the flood, etc. It was
very enlightening.
Our church enjoyed two morning worship services. One began at
8:30 AM and the other at ll:00 AM. We thought the second
service would be the largest, however, the early time proved to
be much larger. Younger people loved it, and it helped our church
grow.
During the August business meeting, Steve Webster, chairman of
the futuring committee, noted the printed report that had been
available for a while. He mentioned some classes might need to
be moved or departmentalized. The main concern was the need
for the church to appoint a building committee to study the
possibility of constructing a Family Life Center. Don Blalock
seconded the motion and Steve gave the names who Bro. Jerry
said had volunteered to serve on the committee. They were
Clarice Stewart, Bill Crosland, Mike and Joyce Floyd, Steve
Webster, Sandra Bohannon and David Wilson. When asked if
there were others that would like to serve, Dora Cummings
volunteered to be on the committee and suggested that a young
person should also be represented, suggesting Tom McKee. Scott
Foshie added that the youth would have some input for the
committee. Steve Holland also was a part of the committee since
he was the one appointed by the church to attend a three-day
seminar in Nashville studying various family life centers. The
building would be constructed on the land the church purchased
two years ago west of the current building. The church voted to
accept these people to lead the building program during these
exciting future months. Bro. Jerry commended this committee for
the long hours of studying and planning.
Resident membership was 664 with average Sunday School
attendance 216. Total receipts were $366,900. We gave $52,000
to mission causes.
November 17, 2004, 2.02 acres, as surveyed by David Bradley,
was purchased from Mrs. Opal Swift for $15,000. Mrs. Clarice
Stewart had met several times talking with Mrs. Swift about
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buying the land. This was voted on in a business meeting. WOW!
We now had a beautiful pond. What would the next step be?
One of the greatest programs any church can support was started
this October. It is Upward Basketball! Steve and Tamara Holland
had been praying and checking all aspects of this program and,
with the help of lots of volunteers, they believed Bear Cove could
pull it off. After much advertising, going to elementary schools
handing out leaflets, phone calls, letters, etc., it was started at
Northfield School. This was for boys and girls kindergarten
through sixth grade. They could play basketball or choose to be a
cheerleader. The year was so successful. We listed 50 helpers in
coaching, refereeing, scorekeepers, testimonies, concession stand
helpers, cleanup crew, and on and on. We had volunteers from so
many churches in White County, and they were glad to
participate. They came from Baptist, Methodist, Church of God,
Church of Christ, and non-church people and we were so grateful.
2005
In March, 2005, we held the Upward Award Night program and
about 415 packed our sanctuary. Think God wasn’t blessing this
program? He really was. We trusted that one day Bear Cove
would have a gym, and we wouldn’t have to depend on our
school.
As the 2005 church year began, our GROW outreach program was
going strong. Those leading each week’s team were G-Dave
McCulley, R- Stancel Stewart, O-Mark McKee and W- Trish Frasier.
Our YEAH team was on the move. They went to Bro. Scott’s
church, Baileyton, East Sparta Church of God, Tullahoma and
Cookeville. They had a great program to share.
Bro. Jerry began a new members Sunday School class weekly.
Tracy Crosland taught the younger children’s new member class.
Cliff Stanley from the Disaster Relief program reported classes
would be held for special training.
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Eddy and Phylene Stewart did a wonderful job with the cassette
tape ministry. They delivered them to homes and hospitals
whenever requested.
January 19, 2005, the church lost the man who had served as
deacon the longest. He was ordained in 1938. Mr. Herman Frasier
loved the Lord and Bear Cove Church. His presence will be
missed.
Steve Webster shared that the building committee had met with
J&S Construction representatives for a survey they had compiled.
Also, Mrs. Opal Swift told them, if we purchased land from her,
the filling dirt would have to be hauled in. The cost of this would
be around $60,000. She also wanted a pond replaced at our
expense, and no water drained on her property.
Room dividers were purchased for the fellowship hall and the loft
youth room.
Bro. Jerry shared the Fresh Start Crusade had placed Lonnie
Hickey in charge and Bro. Lofton requested each church make a
love offering for the meeting. About $10,000 will be needed.
Bro. Jerry began another FAITH class and it would be shortened to
six weeks.
April 3rd was a special time in the Webster family. Jody Webster
was ordained and set apart for the work of the Gospel Ministry.
Bro. Dave Shelley did the ordination message. Jody is the son of
Steve and Cheryl Webster. A reception was held downstairs for
Jody and Alanna. Jody had helped with many summer programs
with Bro. Dave and he would soon become director of youth at
South Clinton Baptist Church, Clinton, TN.
Our high school graduates this year were Jessica Barnett, Angie
England, Leigh Fawbush, Bradley McCaleb, Garrett Palmer and
Chassidy Widener.
June was a special month in the life of Bear Cove. Fourteen
precious people were added to our church membership. God just
keeps on adding His blessings
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Scott took the youth on a hiking trip to Savage Gulf. They all came
back!
The building committee asked the church for $2,000 to prepare a
computerized rendering of the building plans.
The Townsend Mission trip was again a great success. Bro. Jerry
received a letter of thanks from parents of a youngster who had
attended the Bible sessions.
Scott did a super job with our youth this year. He shared that they
did two weeks of Summerfest Day Camp for children, did Student
Camp in Missouri, helped at All Nations Camp at Linden Valley
Center, held a neat music camp and took trips to Six Flags, a
Braves game, did paintball and hiking. All enjoyed the year of
activities.
This year, our revival speaker was Jackie Kay. Bro. Jerry reminds us
this is our greatest need, revival. It was well attended and
decisions were made for Christ.
A record number of children signed up for Awana. They began the
year with huge water
slides at the Kirbys and the church parsonage. The kids were
served all the pizza they could eat, which was a ton!
As this church year draws to an end, Cloray Collins shared the
budget for next year would be $298,275, an increase of $35,108.
Our mission budget will be 10 percent of all monies received. Staff
salaries will increase 3 percent except for Scott. He chose an
increase in housing. He plans to purchase his own home and not
live at the parsonage.
Our statistics for 2005 were resident members 593, total baptisms
12 and other additions 24. Our Sunday School average was 240
and Vacation Bible school enrollment was 272.
Total receipts were $547,230.00.
2006
The new year was ushered in with a new Discipleship Training
series, Confronting Life Issues.
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It’s Upward time again and, as usual, many volunteers were
needed to take care of the 200 children enrolled. Also, our Awana
gang welcomed the new year with an AWANA LUAH! Yes, they got
wet too!
Larry Frasier delivered a plea to our church. A sister church is
faced with a financial dilemma. Forty-seven people rode out
Katrina on a shrimp boat and were trapped. The church needed
$800-$1000 for fuel to send a bus to New Orleans to pick up the
stranded fishermen and bring them to Sparta. Guess what, those
present gave over $1300 and the bus left at daybreak Monday
morning. Those who came to church that night probably didn’t
have a clue they could help so much. Later, we received word
they were happy to be in Sparta and sent their sincere thanks for
making their trip possible. The truck would soon be taking food
and supplies back to the Lafitte area!
Our men enjoyed a golf scramble October 15.
The Awana great bike ride was held Oct 30, then back for a cookout. They had outrageous fun.
November brought mission emphasis. Shoe boxes were needed
badly. Laura did a great job encouraging this ministry for children
all over the world. Steve Webster led the International Mission
Study Sunday evening the 27. Our Week of Prayer for this cause
was in December as well as our Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
Our prison bags went to Bledsoe State Prison in early December.
Good news, Bear Cove prepared a website! Scott and others
worked on this project.
2007
January 8, our Y.E.A.H. team traveled to Athens, Alabama.
A new Beth Moore Bible Study has started, “A Heart Like His.”
Bro. Don Pierson led our revival that began March 26. He is a man
of God and is being used across the country leading prayer
conferences.
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“Experiencing God” Easter Musical was presented on April 23 by
our choir and guest choir, Gum Springs. Scott did a super job
leading our worship choir.
The first Sunday in June was the First Fruits Sunday to see how
much money that the people would give to start the process on
building the family life center.
WOW! A neat group from the church went on a mission trip to
Rio, Jo Ann Frasier, Tamara Holland, Tracy Crosland, Judy
McCaskey, Mary McCaskey, Rebekah Webster and Bro. Jerry.
They took with them bags and bags of over the counter
medications supplied by our church people. This was a real
experience for each of the mission team. They shared with the
congregation about their mission.
Mark Frasier, Building and Grounds Chairman, requested funding
to prepare a study for Ryan Eldridge. Ryan requested he needed
experience in church work and asked to be an unpaid intern for a
while to learn. It was granted and Ryan helped Bro. Jerry and
Scott with various things. The church did pay Ryan a small salary
to help him with living expenses.
Steve reported on the building committee. He stated they were
meeting and there had been some disagreement as to what items
should be first priority. Some things might have to be deleted to
get the cost down to $l million. The Core sampling would cost
$4700 and only $3700 had been budgeted. The architects would
have drawings for a contractor to bid on. A new drawing was in
the works.
In September, new Discipleship training classes started. Steve
Webster taught marriage enrichment, Clarice & Stancel Stewart
led a new believer survival class, and Bro. Scott began a new
evangelism class about learning to share their faith.
Our building committee met with the low bidder, T. Thomas,
Sunday, September 7, 2006. He presented some figures as to
what could be built for $1 million - the building would be a shell
without floors and unusable. Another option was bare bones but
usable for $1.2 million. Also, an option was shared that both bids
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be rejected and then we wait until we had $800,000 to pay down.
Pledges were coming in and our people were excited. The church
would need to make the decision.
Several new Sunday school classes were started.
An analysis was done on the pledge giving and results of this show
that $170,000 were without a time frame and are hopeful they
will come in at the years end. The building could then be started
in the spring.
Moving dirt!
The church lost two faithful ladies within 4 months. Mrs. Geneva
Parker, July 30, and Mrs. Jessie Frasier, October 28, 2007.
A meeting was called for the purpose of discussing a land
purchase that had been offered to the church by the Jessie Frasier
family. The property was located on the east side of Clay Holman
road, joining our playground property. It consisted of 7.65 acres. It
was offered for $50,000. A donation of $16,000 had been given
toward the property, as well as more to be pledged. It was
presented to the church and the vote was a positive one to buy
the property. Later $35,000 was given to this property fund.
Don Blalock stated the steel had been ordered and would be
shipped in late January. He also notified the church that an
unsecured line of credit for $500,000 had been established at
Citizen’s Bank at 7 percent.
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Another deacon chose to resign due to health reasons. Mr. Royce
Hutchings no longer felt he could serve. He had been a faithful
deacon since joining Bear Cove.
Mark McKee shared that the church had approved the “Deacon
Emeritus” presentation to Stancel Stewart and Royce Hutchings.
Plans were to get a certificate and have a reception soon. Later
their pictures would hang on the “Hall of Fame Wall”.
Bro. Scott requested to be relieved of youth director duties
effective with the beginning of the new church year. Bro. Jerry
stated God had blessed our church and now we were at a
crossroads. Where did God want us to go in the future?
The parsonage basement wall was in bad need of repair. It was
on the east side near the septic system. Eddy was looking into this
project, and hoped to get it repaired soon.
2008
Our first money for the new building was borrowed in May of
2008. There was much discussion about another staff person.
In July of 2008 Tim Brown from the Ad-Hoc committee presented
to the church a copy of the reorganization of the proposed new
ministry position. There would be a question and answer session
Sunday night, with a vote the next Sunday. A 75 percent majority
would be needed for approval and also to approve the candidate
when found. The personnel committee would conduct the search.
Bro. Jerry and Scott served on the evangelism team for a medical
mission trip to Rio de Janerio. Another mission team went to
rural Kentucky to share the Good News to an impoverished area.
The Kentucky team includes Barbara Lancaster, Katie and Patty
Bilyeu, Bill Bowling, Jared Dear, Jared Fuson, Desiree Cook, Kaye
Harlow, Juanita Howard, Helen Jarbo, Ruthie Kelsey, Angela and
Ashley King, Christy McCaleb, Dave and Jill McCulley, Shauna and
Tammie Pinkston, and Teague and Devin Umberger.
Sunday, August 10, Jason Johnston, son-in-law of John and Wanda
Newby, brought the morning message. This evening’s message
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was brought to us by our own, Richard Garrell. They filled in for
Bro. Jerry who was on vacation.
The search committee met August 17 to begin the process of
seeking someone God would have us select as our youth minister.
AWANA kickoff was Sunday, September 7, and all the children
were ready for another season of learning and fun activities.
We were so happy to welcome Beverly Smothers as our State
Missions speaker. She had been working for TN Baptist many
years. She served as Community Specialist of TBC. We looked
forward to our Golden State program each September. The
church was encouraged to give generously to our Golden Offering
for Tennessee.
Congratulations to Robert and Lovetta Whipple who celebrated
their 50th wedding anniversary Saturday, October 4, at 1:00 p.m.
at Sparta Civic Center.
Our youth enjoyed a hiking trip to Virgin Falls. It was an 8-mile
hike and the fall leaves were in full color. The next week the group
had their fall paintball battle.
Our preschool children also enjoyed a fall outing at the pumpkin
patch! Amazing Acres was a fun place to visit with the hayride and
corn maze. Children birth – 2nd grade had a ball.
Finished at last! Our Family Life Center that we had planned for,
prayed for, worried over, and lost sleep over was completed and
it was beautiful! Everything was perfect and the whole church
gave God the honor, praise and glory!
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Tracy and the Awana children had their own dedication the first
day they were permitted to have their meeting in the gym. The
children lined up all around the walls of the gym and had a prayer
of dedication to God.
Upward evaluations in October 2008 were scheduled, and it was
great not having to travel to Northfield school for the evaluations.
We were blessed!
Operation Christmas Child was again underway. Hopefully, lots of
shoe boxes would be prepared for distribution worldwide.
December was always our month for International Mission
Emphasis. We prayed for missionaries and we gave to the cause
through the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. This year our goal
was $12,000, and the theme was “Go Tell the Story of Jesus.”
2009
January 2009 and it was so cold outside but warm and cozy inside.
We had football month in Awana, practice and games in Upward,
the GROW outreach was going strong, and we welcomed five new
members. The January expenses totaled $43,993 and we had
$30,448 in the balance. What blessings for a cold January!
Family Life Financial Update:
Amount of Loan
$650,000.00
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Payment on Principle
$61,113.43
Balance owed on Loan
$588,888.57
We were so fortunate to have willing workers helping in the
Upward concession kitchen. Mrs. Dora purchased all the snacks,
even got Hardees biscuits, and the people loved it! We hoped to
purchase bleachers with monies made from the snacks.
A group of concerned ladies had started a food pantry for those
needing extra food in the community. Mr. Mason Brock built
shelves and Donna Brock and Angela King worked toward getting
this ministry started.
February brought to our people the Awana Grand Prix, baby day
dedication,and the first family night in the FLC. Hats were off to
Jana McKee for taking our senior adults to the playhouse in
Crossville to see “Shenandoah.” They really enjoyed it.
Our North American Mission Study, “Live With Urgency,” was led
by Steve Webster. He presented a challenging program. Our goal
was $3,200, which helps support our 5600 missionaries in the
United States and Canada.
Although we had been in our family life center for a while, the
formal dedication was held Sunday morning, March 8, 2009.
Chairs were set up with balls on their feet so the floor would be
protected, thanks to Dan Cummings and Brenda Lintz, and the
whole congregation met for the worship service. Rachel Stewart
decorated the stage area, the choir sounded great, and Bro. Jerry
brought the dedication message. Everything was perfect and the
entire church gave God the honor, praise and glory!
We invited and encouraged our friends and neighbors to visit our
Sunday School for high attendance day the first Sunday in April.
They came! We recorded 307 precious people studying God’s
Word at Bear Cove!
Another mission team was excited to be going to Baltimore, MD
to work with Peninsula House of Prayer Baptist Church. After a
block party on Sunday evening, they conducted Upward
Basketball and Cheerleading Camp from Monday-Thursday. Team
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members were Haskell, Jennifer and Tyler Randolph; Kevin,
Angela, Lindsey and Matt McCulley; Mark, Trisha and Peyton
Mitchell; Stephen, Tamara, Drew and Megan Holland; Caleb
Fuson; Bill, Tracy, Cade and Cole Crosland; Larry and Jo Ann
Frasier; and Tim, Brenda, Justin and Josh Brown.
As stated several months ago the need for a youth director was an
imminent need for our church. The personnel committee was
taking resumes for this position. The person hired would work
about 15 hours per week. What great news! Our very own David
McCulley, was chosen to lead our youth and the whole church
couldn’t have been happier. He had been helping Scott for a long
time and knew our youth well. He would do a terrific job!
Ending the church year of 2009 we reported resident membership
- 550, Sunday School average attendance - 255, VBS enrollment –
300, and total receipts - $455,375.00.
Bear Cove Church was honored to have a young man, Garrett
Palmer, ordained into the gospel ministry September 27, 2009.
Garrett had been a blessing to the YEAH team, our summer
programs, and to the entire church. He and his wife, Heather,
were a special young couple making a difference in lives whom
they touched. Garrett began serving Liberty Baptist Church as
pastor and planned to enroll in seminary in the near future. We
appreciated everything he did for us at Bear Cove!
Another program was added to our Sunday evening youth
schedule, Fuel! Led by Bill and Tracy Crosland, with many other
helping hands, Fuel was started for middle school youth - truly a
super program for these kids!
Clayta Richards spearheaded a drive for coats. Coats were
brought in numbers to share with those in need in December.
Our music department blessed hearts with the Christmas musical,
“The Name Jesus.”
Our children’s church ministry team had a “Happy Birthday, Jesus”
service.
2010
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A ministry opportunity was needed to coordinate transportation
to and from the Lighthouse Camp in Smithville.
Bro. Scott presented the Connect3 Sunday School training from
LifeWay. This was a leadership development conference for all
teachers.
After a very successful Upward season, the awards program was
March 4, 2010. Special guest was Dave Davlin, a super talented
guy with amazing basketball skills.
After more than six years our church secretary resigned. She did
an excellent job in the church office and was second to none with
financial records. She worked tirelessly on the financial
statements during the building of the family life center. She kept
them to the penny. She kept an immaculate system of all
bulletins, treasurer’s reports and special event announcements
for future records. Carole was happy to assist with anything asked
of her and was loved by most all of Bear Cove members. She will
be missed.
Seems March was the month for resigning. Sunday, March 14,
Bro. Scott announced he would be leaving Bear Cove to accept a
position with Alpha Baptist Church, Morristown, TN. A churchwide fellowship for Scott, Audra, and Lydia was held March 28th.
The family meant so much to our church. Scott was a great
worship leader who brought a new and exciting talent in music to
our people. We were blessed with his leadership in both music
and the youth department. We sent our blessings with the Foshie
family as they left.
The Easter worship service was held in the family life center. We
had a good attendance for both the sunrise and regular worship
services.
A neat Mother/Daughter brunch was enjoyed on Saturday, May
1st.
May 2 was a special day in our church as Guy Cohen, Messianic
Jewish pastor of Harvest Asher Church in Akko, Israel was guest
speaker.
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A special business meeting was held Sunday evening, May 2, to
vote on the new secretary the personnel committee had
recommended. Patti Bilyeu made the recommendation to hire
Beverly Nash. Dave McCulley seconded the motion. Patti stated
they had several resumes but the members were unanimous on
the decision to recommend Beverly. Ballets were handed out and
she received 56 “yes” votes and 1 “no” vote.
The church-wide picnic was enjoyed by lots of hungry people. You
could smell Kenny Dobson and Alan Hale’s hamburgers a mile
away. Thanks to the food service committee and cooks, we had a
fun evening of fellowship in the park.
In July of 2010, the first meeting of the centennial committee was
held. Planning needed to be started for the 100 year celebration.
We welcomed as our revival evangelist Bro. Jimmy Arms. He was
pastor of Stevens Street Baptist Church for many years. Services
were July 25-August 1st.
We gave praise for the mission team who worked in the
Appalachian area of Southern, Ohio.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Bro. Vance King.
Bro. King passed away after a short illness. He was pastor of our
church for nine years, and we loved him and Mary, as well as all
six children.
The centennial committee decided to have monthly meals for the
purpose of helping with expenses that would be incurred for the
centennial meal. The cost of this meal was going to be $3,000.
The celebration was planned for Sunday, September 25, 1911!
Our church was involved in a new work that was begun at Valley
View Baptist Church a while back. Dedication Day for this church
and congregation was held on August 15.
Dave McCulley and his youth enjoyed a year-end fun time. First,
worship at 11:00 a.m., then to McDonald’s for lunch, then a visit
to the nursing home, and finally swimming at the country club!
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Fuel started a tremendous ministry at Crag Rock. Our children
loved it and the kids there loved it too.
Our secretary, Beverly Nash, resigned and several people filled in
at the church office. Ken and Joan Belanger and Brenda Brown
helped, and Margaret Luna worked almost all of December.
It was a devastating year for two families in our church. Darek
Kirby, son of H.L. and Norma passed away suddenly Sunday
morning, January 31 and Richmond Boruff, son of Bill and Barbara
passed away Wednesday, August 18. Both grew up at Bear Cove
Church and were members. They were so loved by their family.
2011
2011 - The year of our centennial! The committee stayed busy,
busy getting things organized, calling former people, sending
letters of invitation, trying to complete a history, making pictures,
scanning others, collecting newspaper clippings of interest and
knowing it was only nine short months away!
During the January business meeting another secretary was voted
on to fill the vacant position. Margaret Luna, who had been
helping for a while, was hired as the church’s fourth secretary and
we welcomed her. Margaret, a member of Bear Cove for some
time, is married to Dean and they have one daughter, Deandra.
Friday, February 11, was a very sad day for many. The barn
belonging to John and Amber Weatherly burned, taking the life of
a young man who had attended Bear Cove. Aaron Hummelt had
been living in a room that had been fixed up for him. 911
responded quickly but could not save his life. Our sympathy was
extended to his family, as well as to the Weatherlys.
Craft nights were held in the fellowship hall on Friday nights for
anyone wanting to do any kind of sewing or crafts.
The mission highlight of the summer was the Power Plant,
Savannah, GA mission trip in June. We had 36 people go – 12
adults and 24 youth. They spent the week conducting a backyard
Bible club and canvassing the neighborhood to assist the church
plant, Sycamore Church.
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Brenda Brown and Christy McCaleb, along with many other
volunteers, spent countless hours preparing for this year’s Sonsurf
VBS and it was such a success. For the first time, a snack meal was
served before VBS started and it went well.
At the writing of this last piece of history for this centennial book,
reflections of one hundred years are overwhelmingly awesome.
Thinking back to the brush arbor meeting in 1910, brave and
honorable men cutting timber and sawing wood to build the first
church building brings tears of joy to our hearts. Do you suppose
if they had not had this vision, there would be a Bear Cove Baptist
Church?
Our big day has arrived! It’s Sunday, September 25, 2011, and
we’re looking forward to seeing many of our former pastors,
teachers and friends. We hope everyone has a good time. We
hope each one in attendance can feel the presence of God and
can go away saying, “I’m glad I came!”
Allow the committee to say we are thrilled to welcome you to
God’s house today. We’re so glad to have you share this special
time with us and, as you leave, keep remembering us in your
prayers. Blessings on each of you!
The Centennial Committee
Dora Cummings, Larry Frasier, Norma Kirby, Jerry Pullum, Debbie
Ward, Cheryl Webster
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Special thanks to Ron and Brenda Lintz for the countless pictures
they have made for the people of Bear Cove.
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