A Brief History

The church was organized on Sunday, July 9, 1899 in a small schoolhouse at Baker, Louisiana with 14 charter members. Ruling Elders elected were John M. Alsworth, A. S. Pettit and H. M. Young, with A. S. Pettit serving as Clerk of the Session. Reverend R. W. Patterson of the Plains Church was stated supply 1899-1902 followed by Reverend D. F. Wilkinson 1903-1932. In 1904 plans were begun for a house of worship. Land was donated by Mrs. E. B. Young (Kate Louise Bradley). On April 30, 1905 our present sanctuary was dedicated.

Through the devoted efforts of a few faithful members the church struggled for a period of about twenty years. The pulpit was filled by Ministers, Elders and Laymen from the surrounding areas. The Education Building was built in 1950 and the manse in 1953.

Dr. Robert M. McGehee 1953-1956 was the first full time resident minister. Under the direction and guidance of Dr. McGehee, the Baker Presbyterian Church began to grow. Additional Sunday School rooms were added to the Educational Building in 1954 and the building dedicated in 1956.

The church continued to grow under Reverend William B. Venable 1957-1977. In 1960 the property and house was purchased on the corner of Groom Road adjoining the sanctuary. (House used for Sunday School rooms several years and later sold to make room for playground.)

Growth of the church continued to progress under the leadership of Ted Roeling, who was installed as pastor February 12, 1978, serving the church for the next 25 years! Ted was honorably retired in September 2003.

The Reverend Randy Nichols served as interim pastor for the next three years. The Reverend Charlene Heaton was installed as Pastor on July 30, 2006.

The congregation at present numbers 99 active members. The Session (governing board) includes 9 elders and the pastor. A church choir, under the direction of Marie Cotaya and accompanied by Cathy Moss, sings almost every Sunday.

We have several Sunday school classes, an active group of Presbyterian Women, and walking group. The church operates a Food Bank as part of its community outreach. In 2008 we sent 7 youth to Montreat, a Presbyterian Conference Center in North Carolina, for a week-long retreat.