Where we worship
A weekly series that profiles various places of worship in Columbia County
The Rev. David Fleming is pastor of Warren Baptist Church. He says the church has a heart for doing ministry and missions at home and around the world. More than 4,600 people attend the Washington Road church.
Photo by Jim Blaylock
Warren Baptist Church
Address: 3203 Washington Road, Martinez
Telephone: 860-1586
Affiliation: Southern Baptist
Services: Sunday school, 8:15 a.m., 9:20 a.m., 10:45 a.m.; Sunday morning worship service, 9:20 a.m., 10:45 a.m.; Sunday evening worship service, 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday evening service, 6:30 p.m.
Pastor: Dr. David W. Fleming
Congregation size: 2,129 adults, 2,582 children
Membership: Most who attend are from Columbia, Richmond and Aiken counties, Fleming said.
Founded: May 1898
Known for: "(The church is know for) practical Bible teaching and dynamic worship," Fleming said. "A strong sense of community; a balanced and holistic approach to family life and ministry; excitement; a heart for doing real ministry and missions here in the CSRA and around the world."
Music: The church has a praise team that sings both contemporary and traditional music. The church uses instruments including a piano and organ. The church also has an orchestra and choir.
"Three of our services are contemporary, with praise teams and ensembles and two contemporary bands," he said. "One service at 9:20 a.m. (on Sunday) is traditional, with a large choir and orchestra, piano and organ. The evening service is a blend of traditional and contemporary."
What would you say to someone who's thinking about giving your church a try?
"Come and see, you will meet a lot of wonderful people who love the Lord and each other and will love and accept you, too! There is a place for you at Warren," Fleming said.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing the faithful today?
"Amnesia," he said. "We have forgotten who we are and so we have forgotten what we are here for. We are losing our influence on society because we are losing our identity and our focus on who we are and on what we are supposed to be doing while we are here. We must passionately pursue Christ and His purpose for our lives. It's not a hobby, it is to be the soul-consuming passion of our lives!"