CHURCH HISTORY

Goshen Primitive Baptist Church was constituted on September 21, 1832 and is the oldest Primitive Baptist Church West of the Mississippi.

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A Short History About Goshen Church

    On August 9,1832, a small band of people gathered at a home on a hill overlooking the sleepy village of Wilton, MO and the mighty Missouri River to discuss constituting a Church in their area. Following this meeting, the Church was constituted on September 21, 1832, with the following 12 members:  Issac Wilcoxen, Rebecca Wilcoxen, William Matthews, Helen Matthews, Samuel Wilcoxen, Millie Wilcoxen, Ezekiel Wilcoxen, Perry Spencer, Elisa Spencer, Nancy Bittle, Susan Collier and Mary Jamieson.  Elder Berryman Wren was called to be the first pastor of the Church. The name chosen for the Church was Goshen, taken from the Bible and meaning shelter or refuge.

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    Over the years, several pastors served the Church. The longest standing pastor was Elder Lloyd Sapp, who served for 45 years. Elder Sapp was instrumental in bringing Goshen Church to the Progressive movement of the Primitive Baptists while still adhering to the doctrine of grace.

    The original Church, a 24'x24' log cabin structure, was recorded as being too small for its members and was sold in an auction and hauled off. A new Church, the current base structure, was rebuilt in 1875. Goshen Church has seen several additions and remodels over the years to keep it in a condition that would be pleasing to God.  Goshen is indeed a blessed Church and has held steadfast and strong over the years. Although some of the members today can trace their history back to the original 12 founding members, Goshen continues to be blessed by its diverse growth in membership and attendance by many families that have come to call Goshen a home to raise their children in the love and grace of the Lord in this special place.

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    Many groups are active in the Church today. We have our Bible study and worship service each Sunday morning. Our Primitive Baptist Youth Fellowship (PBYF) is an active group, which enjoys a youth camp each summer and events throughout the year. Our Ladies Circle enjoys monthly meetings and they work to promote many projects for the Church and community.  Both our senior adults and young adults have bi-weekly Bible studies. Families and individuals enjoy many types of fellowship with special activities throughout the year including our annual chicken supper, a sweethearts banquet, local trips for entertainment, luncheons, vacation Bible school, hay rides and so much more.