The Beginning of Raymond Presbyterian Church
Raymond Presbyterian Church was organized in the autumn of 1842 under the leadership of Rev. Silas H. Hazard, a member of Clinton Presbytery. The charter members were only six in number. Nathaniel Green North was selected as Ruling Elder as Rev. Hazard visited faithfully once a month for preaching in the homes of members and ministering to their spiritual needs and those in Learned, Lebanon, and Utica.
The Growth of Raymond Presbyterian Church
The members of the congregation began to recognize a need for a central place to gather together for worship, preaching, and prayer. In 1868, a building lot was purchased on which to construct a church building. The current church sits upon the same property, being the same size as the original sanctuary.
The original church building was remodeled in 1913 to provide the inclined floor and raised pulpit area. This photograph dates from 1926.
With the addition of Hinds County Agricultural High School (later Hinds Junior College), Raymond Presbyterian Church saw much growth. During WWII, Rev. Adrian Kolean was successful in getting Royal Dutch Air Force pilots to attend our services. Throughout the years, God has been faithful in providing Raymond Presbyterian Church with seasons of growth and opportunities for Christian witness in our community.
The Future of Raymond Presbyterian Church
Raymond Presbyterian Church has had a deep commitment to mission work both foreign and at home. Six of our own members and former members have served on foreign fields across the world. God continues to use Raymond Presbyterian Church to further his kingdom across the street and around the world. Will you join us in this work?
