History

The story of Shannon Baptist Church is one of exciting growth.

On January 9, 1962 five families met to consider the possibility of establishing a new church.

"It is our goal and purpose to have a church established according to God's will where believers and non-believer can come unashamedly and without fear of man's criticisms and animosities to hear and learn of God's Word and to be led to the throne of Grace. We pray that God will bless our efforts and may we be wholly in His will."

After meeting for several months in preparation, the founding members met on May 3, 1962 for the purpose of making official the organization of Berean Baptist Chapel.

Charter Members: Walt and Fran Ditsworth, Rev. Lyndon and Nancy Hebner, Sam and Mabel Korf, Ed and Ione Ostergard, Bill and Jan Stees

After meeting in the Sam Korf home for nine months we were finally led by the Lord to a place of our own. That place was the vacant apartment above the Post Office in Shannon. Several of the members spent many nights working long hours to redecorate the building . . .

August 6, 1964 – “Walt Ditsworth stated that he was bothered by our not using the church money to further the gospel. A discussion period followed. Bill Stees moved that we set 10 percent of the offerings aside for a mission fund. Ione Ostergard seconded the motion and it was accepted by the church.” The missions ministry since then has grown consistently to an annual budget more than $25,000.

In December 1965 Pastor Melvin Seger came on faith as full time pastor. Because of the growth during those years, the basement of the Post Office was also used for some time. In May 1966 the church purchased the present church property for $2700. On Resurrection Sunday, 1968 the building at the corner of Badger and Broad streets was begun. The church family worked hard in the following years to develop the church facility.

On March 19, 1970 the church called Tom Bratton as pastor. He served until 1972. Steve Lewis came as pastor in April 1972. Steve Lewis lovingly drew the church together during his two-year pastorate.

Pastor Tim Lehman came to Shannon in May 1997 to serve as the full time assistant pastor concentrating in youth ministries. Also, in September of 1997 the Lord led the leadership of the church to establish an Awana ministry for children. Both the youth ministry and the Awana ministries continue to be used of God in a great way.