NEW PLANS FOR THE ROCK BUILDING

by
Maryann Miller

 

Not to be confused with the Old Rock Gym in Winnsboro, the Rock Building on West Broadway just behind Franklin Bank has had its own stellar history. It started as a American Legion Hall in the early 1930's. "Members of the legion got the rocks from east of town and built the building themselves," said Bill Jones, Winnsboro's Historian. "Then it was used as an oil field supply house. Bethlehem Supply. Later is was used by the city, and it finally ended up with Joe Dan Coe, who is the one who restored it."

Now, the Rock Building will be serving the community of Winnsboro in a new and unique way. First Baptist Church of Winnsboro recently purchased the building to be used as a community center. Organizations and individuals can rent space for nominal fees for meetings, parties, and other gatherings.

Having this type of center in town has been a long-time desire of David Rose, Pastor of First Baptist Church. (Pictured here with his wife, Rachel.) "I wanted to do something to make a difference," Pastor Rose said, pointing out how important it is to take faith out of the confines of a church building. "If all we do is stay inside those four walls and pray, we are having no impact on the community. We could take our church anywhere else and it wouldn't be missed. But if we come out of the church and do something positive for the people, then we are truly living our faith."

David became Pastor of First Baptist in 2006, after serving at First Baptist in Mt. Pleasant for seven years. But he is no stranger to Winnsboro. He was on staff in Winnsboro prior to his appointment to Mt. Pleasant. "I think that has helped with people trusting me and accepting new ideas that I come up with," he said. "They know I love Winnsboro and the whole community."

One of the things Pastor Rose has done is to hold a 40 day study of community last September. The main focus being on "How do we as a church make a difference in the community. People often don't know what we are for," he said. "They know what we are against. And for some, that means they will never step into our sanctuary.

"By having this community center, we are inviting people to come where they feel a little more comfortable and maybe find out what we are for."

To further illustrate his point, Pastor Rose explained the symbols on the church logo. "The sunrise represents 'Discovery'," he said. "Discover God and the good things He can do in our lives. The pathway is our way to discipleship. 'Develop.' Allow God to shape us and allow us to grow so we can help others grow. And the darkness is for 'Deliver'. Take this vision to others.

"Every disciple of Christ should be doing this," he concluded.

At an open house that was held on June 5th, guests were introduced to the new vision for the Rock Building. They were given information about how the building can be used, as well as invited to suggest other uses. A steady stream of visitors were welcomed by Assistant Minister, Scott Bowman (red shirt) and enjoyed the refreshments provided by the ladies from First Baptist.

For information on using the building people can call the church at 903-342-3538.