History of Mt. Vernon

History of Mt. Vernon Christian Church

"According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth there-upon."  
I Corinthians 3:10

The Beginning

     During the 1830's preaching in Walton County, Georgia, had been done by a scholarly young minister, Rev. Philip F. Lamar. He had been educated by a generous Christian woman of Augusta, Miss Emily Tubman, at Bethany College, Bethany, West Virginia, a college established by the famous Alexander Campbell. In him, was manifested some of A. Campbell's characteristic zeal and noble purpose. Already, there were several families of religious influence in the Mountain District Community, so because of his persuasive power in the preached Word, they were convinced of the need of a church home. Consequent steps were so taken.
     It is quite worthy of observation that worthwhile ambitions sometimes have very small beginnings. Such was true regarding the beginning of historic Mt. Vernon Christian Church.  (The first records were recorded in ink made from ink ball of oak trees and quite legible after a hundred years.)
     Preceding the first minutes of the church, we find this appropriate preamble: Georgia, Walton County, August 24, 1843. 

We the Church of Christ at Mt. Vernon do agree to take the Scriptures for our only rule of Faith and Practice through life. Done by order of the Church. 
A. W. WRIGHT, D. C. C. 

     The first house of worship was a small hewn-log house with mortised corners held in place by handmade wooden pegs. There was no fireplace or stove to provide heat. In that day, church attendance was prompted by a genuine desire to worship and to hear the Word of God preached. Note the type of seats used puncheons with two holes bored in each end for the legs, and there were no backs. There were no facilities for lights, so the congregation assembled for preaching both Saturday and Sunday mornings. Business was transacted after the Saturday sermon. This building was used as a schoolhouse also. 
     It was the custom of the times to build a home or church near a spring, so, on October 17, 1842, a friend of the church, J. W. Vinson, granted as a gift, two acres of land near the spring, which furnished continuously a generous supply of water. This grant provided for the privilege of public school purposes also. His daughter was granted the privilege of naming the church, so, she being impressed with the beauty of George Washington's home, named it Mt. Vernon. 
     About two years later, in 1844, this original house gave way to a small frame one, adjacent to the first one. It was placed at a north and south position, a door at each side, a door at the south end, and a high pulpit stand at the north end. It was unpainted, unceiled, without loft or heat, and was lit by candled sconces bracketed to the wall. In this building, wooden pegs were also used for heavy timbers, and the hand wrought nails were made by Robert McGaughey and Apple White Wright, members of the church. The boards for the roof were hand driven. In this, second church house, we find the plank seats were fitted at the top with a narrower plank used as a shoulder rest. The center aisle leading from the front door separated the males from the females. 
     Preaching in those days was more or less irregular, since Transylvania's College of the Bible seemed far away; so, preachers in Georgia were not plentiful. Along in the spring of 1873, John Tillman Hawkins, a young minister just graduated from this college, came as a state evangelist to Georgia. Upon his visit to Mt. Vernon, he found the high enclosed pulpit loft of Early English type entirely too stifling for summer revival services. So, to his own liking, with saw and hammer, which he secured from the hospitable, devout Aunt Jane McGaughey, he fashioned a very simple Bible stand. This alteration was especially pleasing to Bro. Billy Lowe, a visiting preacher of small stature, for he could scarcely see over the former high enclosure. This building, too, was used as a public school house. 
     Up to this time, burial rites were customarily performed at private burial grounds, but in 1875 Elder Thomas Mason Foster, a new pastor, lately from Transylvania, purchased a small plot of ground across the road for the interment of his young child and for further use as a public cemetery.

     On September 20, 1879, this first frame house was sold for $20 to the trustees of Mt. Vernon Academy, exclusively for school purposes. This old house was rolled to the south, and in its stead was erected the third house of worship, another frame one, but the first one to be painted. This time its position was changed; now the entrance was toward the east, just as it is currently found today. There were two side entrances, and the two front entrances had aisles extending to the front. A wooden partition about three feet high extended from the rear down through the center of the building which divided the seating capacity of the males from the females. There were "Amen" seats on both sides of the pulpit. Now there were glass windows with green shutters. Lights were furnished by kerosene glass-chimney lamps placed on brackets against the wall. Heat was provided by a single wood stove on the men's side, where firing was easy, while the women on the opposite side kept warm as best they could. The pulpit stand was flanked on both sides by a tall pedestal, which held a pitcher of water and a lamp, respectively. The sacraments of the Lord's Supper were served from two plates and goblets provided by a faithful sister who had also furnished the bread and wine from her home. The offering was received by two deacons as they passed their hats. Baptismal rites were performed about half a mile away in a pool about eight by ten feet, built within a small stream, with wooden sides and wooden steps leading into the clear water. Against the wall on the platform of the pulpit was placed a dipper and bucket of sparkling water from the spring to quench the thirst of the children while they showed off their Sunday meeting clothes. 

     In 1890, much to the dismay and disgust of many of the senior members of the church, the first musical instrument, the organ, put in its appearance. It was placed in front of the pulpit loft behind the first pew, near the center of the congregation. This meant the removal of a section of the traditional center partition, which was the beginning of its disappearance. 
     On March 4, 1903, Mr. J. C. Phillips, a son-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Wright, graciously donated to the church one and one-half acres of land adjoining the rear of the church property. This plot was to be called "The E. C. Wright Park," and to be beautified and used for the pleasure and benefit of both church and school. Accordingly, three-dozen water oak trees were planted. It is under these trees that tables are now set up for the sumptuous spreads of delicious food enjoyed at the annual "Homecoming" in August. 
     In 1905, the congregation outgrew the third house. Therefore, they decided to make repairs, and by adding an annex across the rear, doubling the seating capacity. This was hurriedly made ready for use for the annual July protracted revival meeting. But on July 10th, 1905, the night before the meeting was to begin, a calamity fell like a pall upon all the community the entire building and its furnishings, save the organ, were burned to the ground, with no insurance for reconstruction. Nevertheless, services for the next day were held under the trees, and plans were then made to rebuild the church. Subsequent services for the summer were held under a brush arbor, and by October 17, 1905 (exactly 63 years since the founding of the church) a new building was ready for use. This was a white frame one, forty by sixty feet, with seating capacity of three hundred. New features added were: a balcony, two heaters, cement pool at the spring (this replaced the wooden version and the foundation can still be seen to this day), pulpit set, carpet, and silver communion servers consisting of four chalices and four plates. Now the offering was received in small neat raffia baskets. This time we find one broad front door and a single center aisle, which banished forever the traditional center partition. The family could now sit together in church, and a young gentleman could at last dare to sit with his ladylove. 

The fourth church was described in detail by Mary Ben Erwin, the grandchild of Erasmus Wright (member, elder and son of charter member Apple White Wright):

“It was of white boards with a steeple.  The main door was at the end with two side doors near the front.  I hope I never forget the interior when we entered.  There was a center aisle with a row of hand-hewn benches on each side.  Oil lamps hung on the walls and two pot-bellied stoves provided the heat.  A live Christmas tree that touched the ceiling was centered in front of the altar.  It was lighted with real candles and decorated with unwrapped presents tied on the tree.  I have never seen one since that equaled it.  At the top, was a beautiful white silk plush teddy bear.  We had the Bible Christmas story with singing for which my cousin, Alevia Burson (Taught at the Mt. Vernon Academy), played the organ and Uncle John was the leader.” (Erwin) 

Up to this time the church had been tidied by willing hands that lived nearby, just over the hill, but on July 14, 1906, at a business session, it was voted to employ a regular janitor. His duties were outlined as follows: 

1. Church and doorsteps to be swept once a week, and the stand, seats and organ well dusted. 
2. The church to be opened up in due time for all regular services, Sunday school, and all other services when notified by deacon. 
3. The window blinds to be opened and sash raised when necessary and window glass kept clean. 
4. The lamps to be cleaned and filled with oil and lighted in due time for all night services. 
5. The church buckets to be filled with fresh water for all preaching services. 
6. The churchyards to be swept once a month just before regular preaching day. 
7. The church must be closed and locked after each service and Sunday school, unless otherwise directed by the deacons. 
8. The song books to be kept in place upon the organ as much as possible. 
9. When wood is furnished by church, the housekeeper shall have it cut and make fire when cold enough. 

      In about 1908, congregational singing took on new life, for there was a piano in the new choir loft, and new songbooks.  In about 1918, an acre of land adjoining the church property to the north was donated to the church by Mrs. D. W. Burson, grandchild of Apple White Wright. At the present time, the combined church and cemetery grounds consisted of eight acres. 
      In July 1922, the swinging kerosene lamps were displaced by Delco lights. This system also furnished water to the building. In 1937, electric lights and fans were made possible because of Rural Electrification by the Federal Government. 
       During the 1930's, as the centennial year was approaching, and the fourth house of worship was becoming impaired, the idea of a beautiful new brick edifice was born in the heart of J. E. Wright, an elder, and chairman of the board and grandson of Apple White Wright. Before this conception could become a reality, he had passed to the world beyond, and so the mantle of this undertaking fell upon the shoulders of his modest, faithful, affectionate wife.   It is stated that the frame building had become top heavy and thus finally had to be torn down (Mathis, 1987).  Throughout the weeks and months, she and the congregation reasoned, planned and envisioned what they could render unto the Lord. As in the days of Moses when the tabernacle was to be built, the Mt. Vernon congregation heard this same message: Exodus 35:4, 5, "This is the thing which the Lord commanded, saying, take ye from among you an offering unto the Lord: who so ever is of a willing heart let him bring it, an offering of the Lord. And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted." So, in the year of our Lord 1940, this courageous woman, faithful to the vision of her devoted companion, led the membership in the erection of the fifth house of worship. The brick for the newest building was donated by Ms. Willie Wright, a faithful member and the wife of J.E. Wright whose vision helped in the fruition of the newest building (Mathis, 1987).  Thus, there has been a new building for each generation. 
       

      Albeit, the year of 1940 found the entire world within the throes of stress, distress, and burden bearing, such as only a world war could bring, the church at historic old Mt. Vernon was not to be daunted in its religious undertaking. They presented a living picture of tireless, cooperative laborers together with God. The men, women, and children have brought their labors of love. They worked on the cold, snowy days, and the rainy ones, from autumn through the spring. Everyone worked with a will, according to his own talent, whether it be stirring mortar, sawing boards, pulling nails, installing electricity, or serving hot lunches. These souls worked cheerfully and ceaselessly, and on July 13, 1941, the first service of worship was held in the new red brick church. The seating capacity of the main auditorium is 400. There is a Bible School room at each side of the entrance and one at the front. 
      Upon entering the building, one beholds in the worshipful setting the exquisiteness of the walnut furniture, the pews, Bible stand, communion table, two pulpit chairs, and two table chairs. These harmonize in simple Gothic style, lending dignity and a spiritual atmosphere to the church. Immediately behind the pulpit the baptistery has for its background an appropriate hand-painted mural suggestive of the Jordan River. The carpet and pulpit hangings are in blending shades of rich dark red. The piano and choir are at the left of the pulpit. New church hymnals have been provided. Modern electric lights are furnished throughout the building. There is a furnace and stoker, and air conditioning for both summer and winter. The ground floor runs the entire length of the building, and is being equipped with restrooms, modern kitchen and dining room, providing for the social needs of the church. The planting of appropriate shrubs adds beauty to the exterior. What a contrast between the first log house with its lack of comfort and the new solid brick one.  This substantial building as dedicated unto the Lord on its centennial, is a loving gift to the community. May it be used with gratitude and gladness toward the building of His Kingdom. 
      To measure the spiritual development of this organization would be impossible, except by the vision of the All-Seeing Eye. For who can measure the limitation of a soul kindled by the flame of God's eternal love? Who can circumvent the benefits derived from a kind deed, an obedient heart, or a noble thought? Who can estimate the value of a human soul washed in the Blood of the Lamb and regenerated unto a more perfect work? Only "When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder," or the books opened up there, can an accounting be made? The spirituality of a church always has its roots deeply set in the abiding spirit of God. (Mrs. Mary Wright Burson, 1942)

"Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it."
Psalms 127: 1

Founding Members

"Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and the household of God. And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord. In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit." Ephesians 2: 19-22

The organization began with twenty-eight charter members, and these names were listed: 

 
1.    Robert Mayfield
2.    James McGaughey
3.    Robert McGaughey
4.    Lucinda McGaughey
5.    James McGaughey
6.    Patsy Treadwell
7.    Johnathan Nowell
8.    Patsy Nowell
9.    Apple White Wright, D.C.C.
10.   Jonah Wright
11.   James Doster
12.   Sarah Adams
13.    Rhoda Hamilton
14.    Elizabeth Smith
15.    John Glasson
16.    Elizabeth Glasson
17.    James Nowell
18.    Elizabeth Nowell
19.    Thomas J. McGaughey
20.    Thomas N. Robertson
21.    Mary McGaughey
22.    Andrew J. McGaughey
23.    Nancy Wilkins
24.    Charity Stroud
25.    Susanna Mayfield
26.    Elizabeth Miller
27.    Eliza Mayfield
28.    N. Boyce
 

    The first records show that the church was evangelistic at the outset.  As the brotherhood grew in Georgia and America, Mt. Vernon’s field was extended to Georgia Missions, Foreign Missions, Educational Work, Church Extension, Ministerial Relief, and the various phases of Benevolence.  Eventually these all merged into the United Christian Missionary Society.  In 1890, the Christian Women’s Board of Missions was organized and the meetings were usually held on the Saturday before the preaching hour.  It sponsored a group of Junior Builders.  The Ladies Aid, organized in 1903, looked after such material needs as carpet, hymnbooks, communion service, etc.  Under Duke Jones’s pastorate, these two women’s organizations merged into the Woman’s council.  For the development of Christian character, and experience in the young life of the church, the Christian Endeavor Society served a vital purpose.  

Sunday School
    

      The Sunday school had its beginning in the very first framed, unpainted house and has been continuous almost to the present time.  It has been a stimulant to the life of the church.  Well is remembered the annual Christmas Tree it sponsored in the 1890’s the tree would bulge from the top to the bottom with everything from peppermint candy and red apples, to shiny lamps and coffee pots or even a new red velvet photograph album.  Good old Santa came in his buggy and always stood near the tree until he had called the name of every person present and saw that they received his gift.   Strangely, some bright boy would infrequently find in Santa’s voice a striking likeness to someone’s he had regularly heard at Sunday School.  This tradition has faced the test of time and has continued into present day.

The Elmer Anthony/Post War Era to Present Day Mt. Vernon
    

      In 1942, our country was at war with Germany and Japan.  Although Mt. Vernon Church survived the Civil War, World War I and other conflicts, this one appeared worse.  The whole world seemed battered.  All the young men left their families to serve in a branch of the military service.  Some of them were killed.  The people here at home experience extreme stress and anxiety.  Everyone’s life was changed dramatically.  Rationing was imposed on the entire country.  Food, shoes, gasoline and almost everything became quite scarce.  The men and women left the farms to work in factories to help the war effort. Thus remaining to grow crops had to work harder than ever.  People met at Mt. Vernon Church to pray for peace.
       After suffering through the Great Depression and the war, they needed the strength only the Lord could give.  At last, in 1945 peace came and life returned too normal.  After the war, people were better off financially.  Homes were built or remodeled.  Bathrooms were added to existing house.  This prosperity was shared with the church. 
       In 1946, Mrs. John “Willie” Wright bought the strip of land from the corner of Highway 78 and Mt. Vernon Road down to the creek and gave it to the church.  Several years later, the church acquired the Mt. Vernon School property between John W. Breedlove Road and Mt. Vernon Road.

 
Mt. Vernon Academy Deed

       Before Dr. E. N. Anthony retired, he suggested building a parsonage so future ministers would have a house near the church. The parsonage was built west of the church.  It was constructed in 1958 at the cost of $9,000 and was built by Frank Baccus, Phillip Broach, Henry Cook, Noble Gasaway and many others. (Anthony)  The cemetery was extended on the northwest side of the church. The men of the church put up permanent marble tables in the grove for homecoming and family reunions. The church basement was remodeled and is now called Anthony Hall. A glass door and wheel chair ramp were added. People gave generously and an elevator was installed to carry the handicapped and elderly up to the sanctuary. 

       Beautiful changes have been made in the sanctuary too. Drapery swags and mini blinds cover the windows. The pews have been padded and matching carpet laid. The choir loft was moved to the left front of the church and enclosed with walnut panels.  Mrs. Jewel Anthony painted the backdrop for the baptistery. Light fixtures were added, including an antique altar lamp. 

         Other heartfelt giving resulted in different Christian seasons, collection plates, and communion trays. Many of these memorial gifts are appropriately marked.  A lighted steeple now serves as a beacon to all who pass by. 
        In 1990’s, the men of the church took it upon themselves to renovate Anthony Hall and remodeled the kitchen.  This has been a great redesign and has been enjoyed by the many events held.  

       As the church has gotten older, many improvements have been made to modernize it for today’s use.  With a great outpouring of love, new stained-glass windows can be seen throughout the church and at the partition of the baptismal pool.   Many are dedicated to love ones of past and present. An electronic sign is now displayed to on comers of Highway 78.  The fellowship hall has since been rededicated in memory of longtime member Frank Baccus and now is known as the Anthony-Baccus Fellowship Hall.  The choir loft and stage has been remolded and now members can enjoy the choir from the front of the church. 

Homecoming

      Homecoming Day at Mt. Vernon has become an institution.  It was begun about the year of 1926 to give an opportunity for former members and friends of the church to assemble and have fellowship, again remembering former experiences.  The guests are always grateful for those who have kept the “Home Fires Burning” and made the day possible.  They always enjoy the feast for them in the park.  This event was instituted and presided over by Elder Joseph T. LaBoon, Chairman of the official board, until his death in 1932, when it was taken over by the succeeding chairman Elder John E. Wright.  At his death in 1939 it was assumed by Elder Robert V. Johnston.
Today the grand tradition continues bringing back friends and family to this house of worship that has served the community for now 175 years. Brunswick stew and BBQ are prepared annually by the men of the Church for guests to enjoy. As in grand tradition, the food is bountiful, the fellowship is contagious and the spirit of the Lord is ever-present. 

       We are grateful and proud of the heritage of old Mt. Vernon Church. As we look to the future we pray that God will continue to bless it. If some of you young people present here today are around when the Bicentennial is observed, remember all of us who have gone. Know that we loved this House of Worship and keep it faithful to the glory of God until Jesus returns! 
  

“Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.  For now I have chosen and consecrated this house that my name may be there forever.  My eyes and my heart will be there for all time.” 

2 Chronicles 7:15-16

Past & Present Pastors
 
“So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands.” 
Psalms 78:72 

    The following individuals are labeled in order of service at Mt. Vernon Christian Church.  They have acted as “Fishers of men” for the past 175 years spreading the gospel to the community and to the thousands of members that have walked through the doors.

 Robert Mayfield
James P. Elder
Nathan W. Smith
Dr. Daniel Hook
John Moore
Jackson Smith
Philip Lamar
C.K. Marshall
William T. Lowe
Dr. M.B. Doster
John Tillman Hawkins
Thomas Mason Foster
R.V. Omer
J.M. Ratliffe
Thomas Mason Foster
Baxter Golightly
Newton J. Tumlin
John Henry Wood
William F. Reagor
Patrick Henry Mears
John H. Wood
William Allen Chastain

History Behind the Pulpit of Mt. Vernon

The following are facts about some of the Pastors that have served at Mt. Vernon Christian Church.  This has been compiled from various sources.

Robert “Rev” Mayfield
Rev. Mayfield was a founding father of Mt. Vernon Christian Church and the first Pastor of record.  Robert had two sons, William R. and Robert A., which fought in the Civil War.  William died in the Battle of Chickasaw Bayou. (Ancestry)

James P. Elder “Holloway”
James P. Elder “Holloway” was cited as serving as the 2nd Pastor of Mt. Vernon Christian Church.  James P. Holloway was married to Ernest Elder’s daughter Sarah.  James was became an elder at Antioch Christian, better known as the “mother church” of the Christian Churches in Georgia.  He came to find Jesus through the teachings of one of the pioneer leaders in the Christian Church movement in Georgia in Nathan W. Smith.  James and family went on to be charter members of a Christian Church in Longview, Texas.  He died on July 9th, 1884 leaving behind his wife Sarah and children Ann, Billy Julia and Lula. (Lavender, 2005)

Nathan W. Smith
Nathan Williamson Smith moved from North Carolina 1831.  Rev. Smith was known for travelling as a preacher throughout Georgia during that time period and helped in organizing many churches. He gave his life to evangelizing for the most part.  He was instrumental in the cause of establishing the Disciples of Christ giving more than 60 years of his life to the service of Christ.  Prior to spreading the word as a Preacher he served as a schoolteacher in what is now Oconee County. (Lavender, 2005) He stated in the Millennial Harbinger, June 1838 “I am traveling and trying to preach the word of God, the only traveling preacher in the reformation in the whole state of Georgia that I know of, and I have left my family to spend the year in the good cause, and have not the promise of one cent as a reward for my time, from any man or set of men.” (Campbell, 1838)

Dr. Daniel Hook
Dr. Daniel Hook was born in 1795 and died in 1870. His wife Catherine was sister to the 18th Governor of Georgia, William Schley. In 1849 Dr. Hook was unanimously elected as the first Georgia state Evangelist. Dr. Hook was also elected as a trustee of the University of Georgia. (The Restoration Movement, 2017)  

Philip Fletcher Lamar
Philip F. Lamar served during a period of time during the early 1860’s. He was married to Catherine E. Lowe, whose brother, John Lowe, would also serve as a preacher at Mt. Vernon. It is recorded that he baptized more than 2000 people during his 25 years of ministry.  It is stated that he was a “Great Evangelist” and was very active in helping establish churches.  Among the churches that he established were, Christian Chapel, Corinth, Bethany, Bogart Christian Church and Galilee.  He also was credited of authoring a book A Practical Grammar that was widely used in southern schools. (Lavender, 2005)   It is written on his tombstone “He Was a Man of God.”  (The Restoration Movement, 2017)

John Tillman Hawkins
Thought to have served in the spring of 1873, John Tillman Hawkins took over the duties of Preaching at Mt. Vernon after his graduation of Transylvania College of Bible.  He was responsible for renovating the high enclosed pulpit of the time and created a very simple Bible stand.  (Mrs. Mary Wright Burson, 1942)

William T. Lowe
William T. Lowe is shown to have served around 1873 as a travelling preacher in the area.  (Miller, 1922)  He was said to have been small in stature.  (Mrs. Mary Wright Burson, 1942) William Pendleton baptized William T. Lowe in Old Rose Creek.  He is believed to be the first man in North Georgia to be baptized for the remission of sins.  (Restoration in Georgia)

Elder Thomas Mason Foster
    Elder Thomas Mason Foster served as Pastor.  He was born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky in 1844. He graduated from the College of the Bible, Lexington, Kentucky in 1872.  It is noted that he served around the time of 1875.  He was the first to make use of the public cemetery at Mt. Vernon at which time he buried his youngest child.  (Mrs. Mary Wright Burson, 1942)  He and his wife are both buried in the “Old” Mt. Vernon Cemetery.  His obituary read “T.M. Foster, one of the oldest and most honored preachers in the Christian Church in Georgia.  Loved by all.  Truly a man of God has entered into his rest; one who has a right to enter through the gates into the city.  Atlanta, GA” (A.C.B., 1910) It is also noted that Elder Foster served for “sometime” and the church grew radically and a good church house was built.  (Miller, 1922)

Baxter Golightly
Baxter Golightly was born in Georgia and served as a Preacher for over 40 years.  His preaching took him as far west as Texas and throughout the Southeast. (McPherson, 2014)

Newton J. Tumlin
Rev. Tumlin was another traveling preacher of the area.  He was stated to be a man of “fewer words at least on paper” and to have had a very keen sense of humor.  (Salem United Methodist Church)

John Henry Wood
    John Henry Wood was born in Rockdale County on September 23rd, 1865. HE graduated from College of the Bible in Lexington, Kentucky in 1891 and then became the northeast district evangelist for Georgia. It is stated that “no one was ever in his presence that didn’t feel a spiritual uplift and the congregation of every church that he every served in had their sprit lifted.” (Lavender, 2005)  He served an extended period of time as Pastor of Mt. Vernon.  Having served on two separate occasions as the full-time Pastor.   He and his wife both died weeks apart in 1939.

William F. Reagor
Rev. William Franklin Reagor was another Pastor of Mt. Vernon who was born in Tennessee and died in 1938 in Seattle Washington.  

Patrick Henry Mears
Rev. Patrick “Pat” Henry Mears was born in South Carolina in 1873 and died in Orlando, Florida in 1959 where he was serving as Pastor of the 1st Christian Church of Orlando.  He was a graduate of Christian Bible College in Kimberline Heights, Tennessee.  He also wrote a book 1898 titled “The Georgia Preacher” which encompasses fourteen of Rev. Mears sermons. (Mears, 1898)

W. Ben McDonald
William Benjamin McDonald was born June 6th, 1875 near Statham, Georgia and lived on the farm and attended Winder High School.  He later went to Kentucky University in 1898 and graduated in the English Bible course.  (Gwinnett Churches, 1923)  Around the time of the mid to late 1910’s Rev. McDonald took over the pastoral duties and traveled between Corinth Christian, located in Youth, and Mt. Vernon.  He wrote to Board Chairman J.T. LaBoon in November of 1923 discussing a salary at the time.  The letter can be found in the appendix section.  Rev. McDonald had two children, Tyrza and David Lamar.  David Lamar was awarded one of the highest honors in the Navy when he received the title of Vice-Admiral, Commander of the Sixth Fleet.  (W.B. McDonald, 1951)

Duke C. Jones
Rev. Duke Jones was born July 27, 1905 in Georgia.  He was educated at Atlanta Christian College, Johnson Bible College and Emory University.  He was ordained at East Point Christian Church in 1927 and became nationally known for his evangelical work and speaking.  He preached in over 365 different churches and held over 550 revivals in 26 states and in Belgium.  He lost his eyesight at the age of 46 but never was deterred from continuing to spread the gospel by memorizing passages from the Bible.  He is quoted as saying “My greatest need is Jesus, and I want to share Him with everyone else.  As long as people will listen and as long as I can talk, I’m gonna preach.”  He died September 4th, 1999 at the age of 94.  (Jones Funeral Home, 1999)

Dr. Elmer Napoleon Anthony
Dr. Elmer N. Anthony was born January 10th, 1894 and died at the age of 86 on October 5th, 1980.  Dr. Anthony and wife, Jewell Anthony are both buried in the “Old Cemetery” at Mt. Vernon.  Dr. Anthony is the longest tenured pastor of Mt. Vernon serving 32 years.  Dr. Anthony or Preacher Anthony, as he is affectionately remembered by, was a graduate of Southeastern Christian College and the University of Georgia.  In 1975 he was awarded a Doctorate of Divinity from the Christian College of Georgia.   Along with preaching, Preacher Anthony served as both a teacher and later School Superintendent of Oconee County Schools.  He was one of the founders of the Christian College of Georgia.  During Preacher Anthony’s tenure the brick church structure that is currently standing was erected, and the church parsonage was built and paid for.   The current fellowship hall has been dedicated in his name, along with another longtime member, deacon and resident, Frank Baccus and is known to all members as Anthony-Baccus Hall.

Woody Williams
Woody Williams began serving Mt. Vernon as assistant pastor and youth worker in 1962.  Rev. Williams arrived as a senior student at the University of Georgia and Christian College of Georgia.  He was originally from Florence, Alabama.   

Dr. Stephen Kirtley
    Dr. Stephen Kirtley came to Mt. Vernon from Texas.  At the time of service to Mt. Vernon then Lieutenant Kirtley in the Army Reserves was called into service as a fulltime Army Chaplain.  Lt. Kirtley began serving at Mt. Vernon in 1965.  Now Colonel Kirtley is a retired Chaplain of the U.S. Army.  He received his B.A. from Central Oklahoma State College and B.D. from Lexington Theological Seminary. 

Ronnie Watson
Pastor Ronnie Watson served in the capacity as minister from 1970-1975 at Mt. Vernon.  He was originally from Loganville, Georgia.  Ronnie was an honor graduate of the Christian College of Georgia, The University of Georgia, and Emory University, Chandler School of Theology. 

Milford Bradley Walters
    Rev. Milford B. Walters came to Mt. Vernon in 1976.  He was originally from Eutaw, Alabama.  Rev. Walters holds degrees in Business Administration from Livingston University and a Masters of Divinity from Columbia Theological Seminary.  

Mel Fife
Rev. Mel Fife came to Mt. Vernon from Tyler, Texas.  He was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  Rev. Fife served time in Vietnam after which he complete his degree from Dallas Christian College where he minored in Biblical languages.  

 Bill Tyre
Happily married to wife Elinor for 43 years. They have one son David, who has been married to Amy for almost 18 years. They have 3 boys: Ward 15, Jos 11, and Emery 9.  They have lived in Augusta for two and a half years, since David took a job as a civil engineer. He is currently retired from ministry and teaching.        
Bill and Elinor were married in Athens following graduation. Both worked at the University of Georgia for several years. Then Bill went into real estate and insurance, while Elinor worked in the radio business. In 1981, they came to Mt. Vernon where he was ordained to ministry in 1986. They moved to Macon and continued in ministry with the Houston Avenue Christian Church, which later became St. Andrew Christian. They served the Macon church for many years as pastor and later as interim whenever they were between pastors. Elinor and Bill are both retired teachers from Bibb County.

“We have always loved Mt. Vernon for calling me to ministry, ordination and loving us so much. The Mt. Vernon community is hard to beat for loving, caring and closeness.  We were introduced to chicken stew, which we came to love. The homecoming BBQ's, revivals, family reunions and church dinners never failed to bless everyone in attendance. From Vashtie McGaughey, to Rosa Mae Cocker, Edna Baccus and countless others we never suffered for lack of love, laughter and food.
The church and its pastor grew a great deal during the four plus years we served, perhaps more spiritually than numerically.  Wonderful friendships developed during our time here. Our memories of this church warm our hearts and cause us to celebrate the continued ministry of the church started so long ago on this beautiful setting. What a blessing to be with you all today.”

Dr. Miller Decker
Dr. William Miller Decker served as minister of Mt. Vernon during the late 1980’s.  He was born in Dallas, Texas in 1925 and died in Elbert County, Georgia in 2000.  He was a graduate of the University of Georgia and Lexington Theological Seminary.  He was married to Doris.

Dr. Gene Acuff
    Dr. Gene Acuff and his wife Marion joined Mt. Vernon Christian Church in 1990 as Minister.  Prior to that Gene had served as an Interim Pastor at Perry Christian Church in Perry, Oklahoma from 1989-1990.  Gene has earned several degrees that include: BA Manhattan Christian College, MS Kansas State University, & PhD University of Missouri.  Gene is also a retired Professor.  He began as a Professor of Sociology Enid University, 1962-1964.  Then served as Professor of Sociology, Oklahoma State University, 1964-1988 and served as Department Chair Sociology, 1966-1982.   Gene was very loved as minister and has on occasion preached several revivals and homecomings at Mt. Vernon.

Jon Ford
Jon came to Mt. Vernon in 2006.  He was a very animated Pastor who loved to use props and occasionally went “overtime for Jesus” as he loved the analogy when a sermon would go over the normal 12 o’clock hour.  Preacher Jon was a veteran and served in the Marine Corp earning the rank of Warrant Officer.  Preacher Jon has preached from Florida to Oklahoma.  Another contribution he made to Mt. Vernon, he began the annual Easter 5K run that is held annually the Saturday prior to Easter.  It continues to be a wonderful fundraiser event for the church as well as a community outreach event.

Kader White
Born, December 6, 1928 in the rural town of Hertford, North Carolina, he grew up learning the chores of farming and observing the beauties of nature.  His father and mother were faithful attenders in the local rural Baptist church, so he knew early in life the importance of worship.  He was saved at the age of nine, through the witnessing of a faithful Sunday School teacher.  During his teen years, he describes himself as rebellious and did not desire to attend church so regularly.  God began to work through the prayers of his mother and the year he graduated from High School, he rededicated his life and became very active for the Lord, organizing a youth program in the church and serving as a junior deacon.  
September, 1951 was when he surrendered his life to become a minsiter for the Lord.  January, 1952, he entered the Moody Bible Institute of Chicago, Illinois, majoring in the Pastors Course.  It was here that he met Lois Wilson, who was a student in the Christian Edcuation of Children.  They were married on June 18, 1955, following gradution.  
In order to further his preparation, he atteneded Norther Baptist Theological Seminary in Chicago, recieving a degree of Bachelor of Theology.  Ordained for the Gospel Ministry January 12, 1956, he began to serve in the West Suburban Baptist Church until he graduated from Seminary, 1959.  The remaining years of his life have been serving as Pastor, Interim Pastor, Deferred Giving Representative for Moody Bible Institute and Child Evanelism Fellowship.  It was in December, 2005 that the Lord led him to Mount Vernon Christian Church to help with music and later to become Pastor in October 2008.  “Praise the Lord for His leading, for it has been a blessing and is today as I serve with the Rev. Scott Frost, who is now the Pastor.”

 
Scott Frost
My call into the ministry came in April 2011 after serving as a deacon and youth leader. I continue today serving the youth in the community as well as a minister here at Mount Vernon Christian Church. My wife Misty has been blessed with a beautiful voice and our two children, Ethan and Lily have been blessed with exceptional musical talents. I was raised just a few miles down the road in the Gratis area by two of the greatest people I will ever know, Charlotte Frost and the late Wilbur Frost. My Father taught me kindness and respect while my mother taught me how important it is to worship our Lord and Savior. Currently I am studying at Southwest Bible College and Seminary progressing towards a Bachelor of Arts degree in Ministry.