Garden City Baptist Church, which was virtually destroyed by fire in June 2008, will observe its 35th anniversary celebration on Jan. 31.
The birthday celebration, which will be held at 10:30 a.m. at nearby Garden City Chapel, will coincide with the church’s move back to its home property. After the worship service, church members will travel up the road a few blocks for a covered-dish meal and dedication service in their rebuilt fellowship hall.
The following week, on Feb. 7, Garden City Baptist members will begin holding two worship services each Sunday in the rebuilt fellowship all. Sunday school classes will also meet at the property.
Pastor Rich McLawhorn said the church will continue to worship and have regular Sunday and Wednesday activities on the parts of the property that have been rebuilt while the church rebuilds offices, Sunday school rooms and sanctuary.
“We’ve been really challenged in 2009, but God has proven to be faithful every step of the way,” McLawhorn said.
Guest speaker for the 35th anniversary service will be Jim Austin, executive director-treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. A group from Charleston Southern University will provide special music.