On May 24, 1942, retired Methodist
minister S.S. Bogan organized a small group of Summer Grove residents at
the home of Mrs. Daisy Hendrick. At that time, the nearest Methodist
church was in Shreveport. They soon got permission to hold services
at the Summer Grove School. Starting with 24 charter members, the
community was canvassed to generate funds and new members. After
four years, construction began in February 1946 and was completed by November.
The sanctuary and five classrooms were dedicated on November 24 in a service
led by Bishop Hoyt Dobbs. A parsonage was soon built next to the
church. A small education building was constructed in 1949.
In 1953, the sanctuary was expanded during the pastorate of Rev. W.B. (Jack)
Shaw. Seating space increased from 132 to 232.
In the mid 1950s, Rev. J.P.
McKeithen led in the expansion of the education building, which was renamed
Bogan Hall. A new parsonage was built on Flournoy Lucas Road in 1960.
The old parsonage was converted to a Junior department. In 1965,
Rev. Otis Spinks led the congregation in building a new education building.
It was named the Don Ramsey Memorial Hall, in memory of a member.
After discussing the possibility
of remodeling in 1978, it was decided to relocate in 1979 while Rev. Robert
E. Carter was the pastor. In 1979-80, property was purchased.
The former church property was sold for $500,000, with the stipulation
that the church could use most of the facilities during the construction
of the new church. The first service in the new church
was on Easter Sunday, April 3, 1983. Bishop Kenneth Shamblin presided
over the dedication service on May 15, 1983. Along with a sanctuary,
an education building and a multi-purpose building were constructed.
The old time capsule was opened in 1984 and a new one placed near the office
door.
Source: History of Summer Grove United Methodist Church,
Carolyn W. Bahm |
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