The Extract Continues;

The New Church Emerges

“Building a new church, at the beginning of the twentieth century when money was less plentiful in supply, was quite an undertaking for such a small congregation. Pastor Warrick seems to have been the right kind of leader to inspire the gallant members to step out in faith, trusting God to supply their every need The little church enjoyed encouragement from the Irish Baptist Association.

The editor of the Irish Baptist Magazine contributed the following article:

“More than once in the columns of this paper attention has been drawn to the new church at Dungannon, which is in course of erection in this thriving country town. The work is practically finished and memorial stones are to be laid in the baptistry at the opening ceremony on Saturday 7th 1907. It has been found possible for the small sum of £300 odd to erect a very pretty brick building with ornamental front, capable of seating over two hundred people. This happy result has in large measure been brought about by the voluntary labours of several of the members, who gladly gave of their time and skill and this saved considerable expense in the shape of wages. We cannot help thinking that this modest and appropriate building will appeal to all who have a knowledge of the peculiar conditions which prevail in the provincial districts of Ireland. To have spent more money and put up a more elaborate structure would be a suicidal policy, for if one thing is clear it is this, that a small Baptist Church in Ireland cannot afford the luxury of a big building debt. All the means and resources are fully taxed to meet current expenses. Of the sum required, over £163 has been already subscribed, and it is to be sincerely hoped that the remainder shall be forthcoming immediately to enable Pastor Warrick and his noble band of helpers to enter into possession free from debt. It is noteworthy that all money subscribed has been given in small amounts and indicates that a very wide interest has been taken in the building of this church. In the afternoon of September 7th at the hour of 3.30 p.m. a public meeting will be held. Mr R.G. Glendenning will preside over the gathering. Several speakers including Pastor Hugh D. Brown M.A., will address the meeting and a number of ladies have kindly consented to lay memorial stones. On the following day Pastor Hugh D. Brown will preach at both the services. All our readers will join us in praying for a most successful series of meetings and that times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord will be experienced by all who are privileged to attend.”