A Prayerful Beginning
Royce Baptist Church has a rich heritage of faith and community, beginning with a small group of believers who gathered on May 6, 1951, in the home of Rev. L.S. Chambers Jr. on Sheridan Circle. Originally named Bible Baptist Tabernacle, the church held its first services in Jefferson High School, with Rev. Letcher M. Vandergriff serving as its pastor.
In 1952, the congregation purchased land on Royce Circle and changed its name to Royce Baptist Church. A decade later, in 1962, the church voted to align with the Southern Baptist Convention and called its first full-time pastor, R. L. Lovette.
A Godly Foundation
Planning for the future, the church sold its original property in 1955 and purchased three acres on South LaSalle Road. During this transition, worship services were held in Linden School while construction began. In 1956, work was completed on the basement of the current building, which became the main meeting space for several years. On August 23, 1959, the sanctuary was completed, and the first worship service was held. In 1966, additional rooms were added to the back of the sanctuary. The parsonage was completed in 1971. The church underwent remodeling in 1977 and expanded parking in 1984.
A Focus on Family
Recognizing the need for expanded ministry space, the church held groundbreaking ceremonies on January 21, 1996, for a Family Life Center and a new front entrance. These additions included: A drive-thru portico and a three-stop elevator, a gymnasium, nursery, kitchen, six classrooms, a large upstairs space for middle school, high school, and college students. In 2016, the basement was renovated, adding a small kitchen and additional classrooms for children’s ministry.
A Continued Mission
From a gathering in a small home to a thriving congregation, Royce Baptist Church has remained committed to worship, discipleship, evangelism, and community outreach. As we look to the future, we honor the legacy of those who laid the foundation for this church and remain dedicated to proclaiming the gospel and serving the Oak Ridge community.
Staff
Dr. Marshall King
Brief Bio Goes Here
Linda Phillips
Lucy Jones
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