- April 24, 2024
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A church can quickly become a second family. A church that has been serving the community for 90 years, as is the case with First Baptist Church of Bunnell, has become a family for many in Bunnell and Palm Coast.
The church started in 1924, with seven charter members, meeting in homes and added 13 members in 1926.
“We didn’t even have a church yet,” said Diane Marquis, a 45-year member. “If they could see what we have today, I think they would be amazed.”
Since then, First Baptist Church of Bunnell has hit many milestones, including launching three other Baptist churches in the area, but above all, the things that long-time members remember about the church is the way its members have ministered to them in times of need.
In 1980, Dan Cody, who grew up attending the church, was diagnosed with a rare blood disease and in the hospital for 44 days.
“In that time, the church really rallied behind us,” said Pat Cody, Dan’s wife. “Betty Jo Cowart organized a blood drive at the church and they had to turn away the 157th person because they ran out of supplies. That just shows what the church family can do when they rally behind you.”
While sitting in one of the classrooms at the new church building built in 2007, Pat and Dan Cody relayed the story of one of their hardest times in life and how the church and God showed up for them.
“I used every penny I had getting Dan in and out of the hospital,” Pat Cody said. “The church saw the struggles without me even going to them. The church held a fund drive and God showed up in a powerful way. We payed bills we weren’t able to pay.”
Through the generosity and kindness of people in the church, the Codys were able to give their children a Christmas. One in which their daughter received a pre-loved baby doll, which became her favorite.
“It was the kindness of the people from the church,” Pat Cody said. “They probably don’t know how much they touched our lives and how important they are to us, because what they thought was just a little something, meant the world to us.”
There are several stories like Pat and Dan Cody’s. Ones in which the members of First Baptist Church of Bunnell have gone above and beyond in the name of Christ. Past and present members will have the opportunity to share their stories at the church’s 90th homecoming reception scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 6.
“Throughout the last 90 years, I believe everyone will attest that God has proved himself faithful here,” said the Rev. Eric Trawick, who has been with the church since February 2012. “We can’t wait to be a part of what He has for us in the future as we desire to impact Flagler County with the gospel of Jesus.”
IF YOU GO
What: First Baptist Church of Bunnell 90th Anniversary Celebration
When: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 and 10 a.m. to noon Sunday, Sept. 7
Where: 2301 Commerce Parkway, Bunnell
Info: A reception is scheduled for Saturday and worship and celebration on Sunday.
