Where we worship
The Rev. Bill Harrell, pastor of Abilene Baptist Church, says the church is friendly to visitors and places an emphasis on Scripture.
Photo by Jim Blaylock
A weekly series that profiles various places of worship in Columbia County.
Abilene Baptist Church
Address: 3917 Washington Road, Martinez
Telephone: 869-1774
Affiliation: Southern Baptist
Web site: www.abilene1774.org
Television broadcast: Strength For Today Broadcast on Channel 26 on Sunday morning at 7; Channel 47 on Monday evening at 6 in North Augusta.
Services: Sunday school, 9:15 a.m.; Sunday morning worship, 10:30; Sunday evening worship, 7; and Wednesday prayer service, 6:45 p.m.
Pastor: Bill Harrell
Congregation size: 2,700
Membership: Most who attend are from Columbia and Richmond counties.
Founded: 1774
Known for: "Its doctrinally based, Biblical stance on Scripture and pulpit ministry," Harrell said. "It's known for a church that has conservative viewpoints on the issues of today. It's also known to have an outstanding music ministry. It's a very mission-minded church. It gave approximately a quarter of a million dollars to missions last year. It has a mission trip it goes on to places like Guatemala. It has a full range of programs from children to senior adults."
Music: The church offers a blend of music.
"We love the great hymns, and we love good, solid choral music," he said. "We have a choir with 100 people and an orchestra with 25 pieces in it.''
What would you say to someone who's thinking about giving your church a try?
"They would find it to be a very warm, friendly church," Harrell said. "It's just a big country church."
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing the faithful today?
" How secular thought is negatively affecting Christianity and the church. Staying true to the good news of Jesus Christ and, at the same time, relevant to contemporary society," he said.