Atmore Baptist Temple marks 53rd year with revival and lunch

TL;DR

Atmore Baptist Temple plans a four-day 53rd anniversary celebration starting March 9, 2003.
Church founded in 1950 at J.A. Byrd's home, now at 1707 South Main Street with school and fellowship hall.
Event features dinner on the ground lunch and revival with Evangelist Dr. Joe Arthur.

The story at a glance

Atmore Baptist Temple in Atmore, Alabama, is marking its 53rd anniversary with events March 9-14, 2003, led by Pastor Doug Odom. The celebration includes Sunday services, a traditional lunch, and a three-day revival with guest evangelist Dr. Joe Arthur from Jonesboro, Georgia. It's being reported now as the events begin that week.

Key points

Church organized second Sunday in March 1950 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Byrd on 218 Perdido Street.
Early meetings held in rented space at old Peadens Grocery and Produce Warehouse on Presley and McRae Streets.
Land at 1707 South Main Street donated by Mr. and Mrs. C.L. Harrison; auditorium built in 1970-1971.
Facility remodeled in 2002; added 50x120-foot educational building and fellowship hall in 1991, now home to Temple Christian Academy (preschool through 7th grade).
Pastor Doug Odom called in June 1992; he and wife Pam started Kiddie Kollege, grown into the academy.
Schedule: Sunday school 10 a.m., worship 11 a.m., dinner lunch, evening service 6 p.m.; revival Monday-Wednesday at 7 p.m. with special music by Redeemed Trio and Dorriety Family.

Details and context

The church has stayed at its current site since the land donation, growing from home meetings to a full facility with worship space, education building, and academy. The "Dinner on the Ground" is an old-fashioned communal lunch in the fellowship hall, typical for such Baptist anniversary events.

Pastor Odom's long tenure since 1992 ties into the church's expansion, including the school that serves local families alongside regular ministry.

Contact church at 368-8282 or www.takeoff.to/abt for more.

Key quotes

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Why it matters

This anniversary highlights 53 years of steady local ministry in Atmore, showing community roots through home starts and facility growth. It offers residents a chance to join worship, revival preaching, and fellowship that supports education via Temple Christian Academy. Watch if the church plans future expansions or events, though details depend on ongoing ministry.