Central Missionary Baptist Church adds education building

The Rev. Joseph McKelton is thrilled about a new physical addition to his church, but it is another kind of growth that remains his chief priority.

“Spiritual growth has to be the focal point of the church. It is all about salvation. We can never forget that,” said McKelton, pastor at Central Missionary Baptist Church of Ellerslie, Ga.

The church, billing itself as “A Church With a Vision From God,” got its start more than 130 years ago.

A 1927 building a short distance down Central Church Road was home to the congregation until the current sanctuary building was constructed about 16 years ago.

The older church building has been used for activities, which can now take place in a new annex, the Elijah Butts Jr. Christian Education Building.

Use of the facility began in March. A dedication ceremony was in April.

“Everyone seems excited about it,” McKelton said.

The 6,000-square-foot building connects to the 9,000-square-foot structure that is home to the sanctuary.

The total cost, including furnishing, was about $750,000.

Ben Gordy Construction Company of Columbus built it.

“No complaints at all. Great job,” McKelton said.

The pastor said knowledgeable members of the congregation lent their expertise to the project. He mentioned Jimmy Richards, the chairman of the board of deacons, as a key supporter.

Butts was a longtime deacon at the church and McKelton credits him with having the insight to encourage the church to purchase the 10 acres of land on which the church stands.

There is still plenty of ground available for further projects.

McKelton would like to see a life center there one day. And, he said, a school.

“That’s my vision, but it is a long way off. I may never see it,” the pastor said. “Right now, I am thrilled with this new addition. God has blessed us.”

The education building features four classrooms, a fellowship hall, a nursery and computer lab.

McKelton smiled and said there is also a state-of-the-art kitchen, a good place “in which to burn some groceries.”

There are also computers and smartboards.

“Everything is high-tech,” McKelton said.

He emphasized what Central has to offer is not just for church members of which there are about 500.

“This is a blessing we can share with the community,” McKelton said.

The 58-year-old pastor, who came to the church from Norcross, Ga., a dozen years ago, wants to be able to hold classes for community residents.

“We can have computer training here,” he said.

Different forums may be held.

McKelton said the need for the addition is real because “there are houses going up all around us.”

“It is a community continuing to grow and we must grow with it,” the pastor said.

There is hope what Central is offering will increase membership, particularly, more young families.

“You have to have something to offer those with children,” he said. “It is just like looking for an apartment. People want to see what amenities are offered. It is good for people to see what God is doing here and possibly join us rather than drive to Columbus for worship. We have a great group of leaders making all of this possible.”

He said Central is a great place for someone who is hurting to come and get healing.

“We have a loving atmosphere,” McKelton said. “ We are a hugging church. Visit us and you will get hugged.”

This story was originally published May 26, 2016 at 3:03 PM with the headline "Central Missionary Baptist Church adds education building."