How it all started...
Our story began in 1914, when a generous gift from Mr. Samuel Large allowed the church and cemetery to be established on Middle Creek Road, right across from what is now the country club and golf course. The congregation quickly built the original church, and among the first members were the Householders, Robertsons, Lovedays, Marshalls, and Franklins. It wasn’t long before others joined in, helping to shape the community we cherish today.
The first Sunday School Superintendent was Mr. Perman Franklin, with S.C. Atchley serving as the first Pastor, and Hiram Franklin taking on the roles of Church Clerk and Treasurer. The dedication service of the original building took place in October of 1914, marking the beginning of a long and beautiful history.
In 1959, the church embarked on a new chapter, breaking ground on the sanctuary that still stands on the Gatlinburg Highway (now Parkway). The new building, which was dedicated in April 1960, could welcome over 800 worshippers, with the education building holding more than 400. In 1975, we expanded further with the addition of a new educational building.
One treasured piece of our history is the old church bell. When the original building was dismantled, Mr. Wayne Ogle, a devoted church member, purchased the bell. After many years, he graciously returned it to the church, where it was restored and placed in a charming mini park out front on the Parkway. It stands today as a reminder of our enduring legacy and the generations of faith that have passed through these doors.
We invite you to join us in celebrating all that God has done through our church and to become part of the story as we continue to grow and serve our community.
The first Sunday School Superintendent was Mr. Perman Franklin, with S.C. Atchley serving as the first Pastor, and Hiram Franklin taking on the roles of Church Clerk and Treasurer. The dedication service of the original building took place in October of 1914, marking the beginning of a long and beautiful history.
In 1959, the church embarked on a new chapter, breaking ground on the sanctuary that still stands on the Gatlinburg Highway (now Parkway). The new building, which was dedicated in April 1960, could welcome over 800 worshippers, with the education building holding more than 400. In 1975, we expanded further with the addition of a new educational building.
One treasured piece of our history is the old church bell. When the original building was dismantled, Mr. Wayne Ogle, a devoted church member, purchased the bell. After many years, he graciously returned it to the church, where it was restored and placed in a charming mini park out front on the Parkway. It stands today as a reminder of our enduring legacy and the generations of faith that have passed through these doors.
We invite you to join us in celebrating all that God has done through our church and to become part of the story as we continue to grow and serve our community.
Expanding the vision...
As we move through the 21st century, FBCPF is making plans to stay relevant in the community in these times.
Visit our REFOCUS page for more information about our discerning God's plans for FBCPF.
Visit our REFOCUS page for more information about our discerning God's plans for FBCPF.