WACO, Texas -- The once thriving Edgefield Baptist Church, founded 112 years ago in Central Texas, is closing its doors, a victim of changing times and economics. Sunday attendance has dwindled to a dozen, according to the Waco Tribune-Herald.
The church thrived during the 1940s and 1950s, peaking at more than 600 members, 400 of whom were involved in Sunday school. A tornado in the late 1950s helped start the decline, and the expansion of nearby Baylor University in the 1960s contributed to the membership loss. Of its remaining members, none are younger than 60.
Edgefield's aging congregation has been unable to attract younger members, church member Mary Goss told the Tribune-Herald.
"We're an old-fashioned Baptist church," Goss said. "We don't raise hands. Our style of worship isn't charismatic enough for people nowadays. It's really sad, but it's indicative of the times."
Baylor University is the most likely buyer of the church's property, which includes a parsonage and fellowship hall. Baylor might use the land for student housing. According to the McLennan County Appraisal District, the church and grounds are valued at $176,882.
The church plans to divide proceeds among missions, Baylor's Truett Seminary and Baylor's ministerial tuition program.
Edgefield held its last service May 19 and is planning a June 22 homecoming and farewell event.
