An Indio church celebrates its 100th year anniversary

The First Baptist Church of Indio opened its doors almost 100 years ago. One of the church members says they watched churches open and close over the years.

Before Jan. 18, 1924, church members would meet at various members' homes. In the Spring of 1924, Reverend Jones combined his congregation with the Community Methodist church in Indio and grew his congregation to branch off. They began to host their service as First Baptist Church while using the Community Methodist church building.

In 1925, John Noble donated a building to the church. The roof was tented, but the congregation showed up. They moved in 1933, but still, Indio was home for First Baptist. A church was built in 1970 where it currently resides.

Today, the church is run by Pastor Earl Dixon and First Lady Lillie Dixon. They have been a part of the church for 24 years. "It shows God," says Pastor Dixon. "It shows what he does, and it's not about all of us, but it's about him."

In the fellowship hall there were photos of members that have passed on. Some of them were a part of the church since the beginning.

"These mothers taught me a lot about standing still and being strong," says Pastor Dixon. "And then what's really to share when it comes down to our community, and that's the love."

Stanley Castleberry shared pictures of his mother and father, who joined this church in the 40s.

Castleberry grew up in this church. It's been 69 years. "I came over here to help my dad when, during the summertime, we had to come over here and help lay the bricks," says Stanley Castleberry. he confirms that he did not build the church on Dr. Carreon but he says he was passing bricks to contractors in the hot sun when they were building the church in the 70s. "We had to come to church, even, and we were married, and then living our own; every Sunday, they make sure you come to church, or they come and get you," Castleberry.

The church has been in existence since January 1924. "It's a backbone," says Castleberry.

Joan white has been a member since 2019, where she helps spearhead some educational programs they give out to the community for free. "We try to inspire young people to get their education," says Joan White.

They host health fairs, spiritual conferences, and more.

News Channel 3: What is one thing that you think you all have held on to these 100 years here in the Coachella Valley?

"The word of God," says the setup crew at the church.

The event will be held on Sunday, Jan. 14, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at First Baptist, 82490 Dr Carreron Blvd.

News Channel 3: What's on the menu for Sunday?
"Greens, rice, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, fried chicken, baked chicken, and brisket," says Hazel.