Our Story

How it all started...

In 1955, Fred Oneil decided to start a church in his basement, but it wasn't long before that space was outgrown.  The search for a building began and the small congregation settled at 106 S. 6th Street, but honestly, the building needed alot of work.  The little congregation persevered and Pastor Oneil decided they should become a mission, and Ira Grove Freewill Baptist Mission was born.
Soon enough, the mission had again outgrown its location and a new search began.  Sis Maggie Britton called Bishop Oneil about a church for sale.  The faithful members moved to 1701 Belmont Ave., where we are currently located, today.  Bishop Oneil joined the Carbondale District of Freewill Baptist, and Ira Grove Freewill Baptist Church was established.  
Many missionaries were licensed under Bishop Oneil, along with the first woman raised from the floor to the pulpit in the person of Eldress Dorothy Fleming.  Several other ministers answered their call at Ira Grove, over the years.

Expanding the vision...

In 1998, God blessed Ira Grove with a new Pastor... Elder Henry C. Jones.  He was laid to rest on July 7th, 2015 after 18 years of unwavering service; he is missed dearly.  During his tenure, the church had many renovations and improvements.  
In 2002, our (then 1st Lady) Jackie Jones founded the male praise dance group: The Young Men of God, who ministered all over the country.  She also founded The Young Women of God and The Young Men of Worship.  On February 6th, 2011, Lady Jones announced her call into the ministry and on May 15, 2016 she was installed as the first female Pastor of Ira Grove.

Where we are headed...

Matthew 28:19-20 says: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."  Our mission is to make God known in the earth by spreading His love and His word.  We know with God, all things are possible, and we are making disciples across the nation!  Our goal is to change lives with God's love.

Be a part of our story...

Join us every Sunday as we gather to worship together at 11 am.