A church that began with worshippers gathering in a log building on skids is preparing to celebrate a milestone few congregations ever reach.
Hardin Methodist Church is marking 150 years of ministry in the Hardin community, a history that has carried the congregation through six name changes, two locations, four church buildings and a devastating fire.
A special 150th anniversary service is planned for Sunday, Oct. 11, at 11 a.m. The service will include a sermon by the Rev. Jason Burnham, superintendent of the Global Methodist Trinity Conference. Special guests will include Jim Welch, a former interim pastor, and Gideon Watson, who served as pastor of the church for 33 years.
The church was first established in 1876 by the Rev. J.R.D. Taylor under the name China Grove Methodist Church. Worship services were held in a log church building on skids, allowing it to be moved to different locations depending on weather conditions.
A chapel was constructed in 1886 on land donated by Liberty businessman William F. “Bee” Hardin, which remains the church’s present location.
The chapel was originally named Smith’s Chapel Methodist Church in honor of the Rev. John A. Smith, who served as pastor from 1884 to 1886. In 1910, the church changed its name to Hardin Chapel Methodist Church, and renovations were made to the building.
The congregation began holding regular services and established a Sunday school in 1916.
A new church was built in 1939, but it was destroyed by fire in 1958. While the church was being rebuilt, services were held in the Hardin schoolhouse, where the congregation remained until the new structure was completed in November 1958.
Property for a parsonage was deeded in 1960, and a brick building was completed soon afterward. Additional land was donated in 1994.
Through the years, the church has had 76 pastors, with Watson holding the distinction of being the longest-serving pastor at 33 years.
About 13 months ago, the congregation welcomed Pastor Michael Martin, a Louisiana native who quickly found a home in Hardin.
Martin said it was a bit intimidating, but also an honor, to be part of a church with such a long history.
“I’m part of Hardin’s rich history now, and I’m honored to be the pastor here and to be part of that rich history,” Martin said.
Martin added that the congregation is praying not just for the church, but also for the community and the nation.
“I do pray that the church be filled, but more than that, I pray that our church be known for the love of Christ,” Martin said.
The church offers multiple programs serving a cross-section of its members and the community.
Every Wednesday evening, the congregation gathers for dinner before breaking into groups for Bible study, youth programming, Kids Korner and the women’s class. Senior Fellowship Friday is held once a month.
All are invited to visit Hardin Methodist Church at 1005 FM 834 W. in Liberty. Regular Sunday services are held at 10:55 a.m.
To learn more about the church, visit hardinmethodist.com or its Facebook page.