Introduction
History
Celebrating 65 Years of History at Carlton Oaks Baptist Church
On March 29, 1959, Pastor Harry Coats held the first service on Easter Sunday at Carmen’s Café, attended by 17 faithful individuals. By October 1 of that same year, the congregation officially constituted with 38 charter members, holding meetings at 9598 & 9600 Halberns Blvd.
In August 1960, Jerry Harris was installed as pastor, marking the beginning of significant growth and development. On December 2, 1961, the church began construction on its current building, a milestone that laid the foundation for its future.
In October 1965, Seth Anderson was called as pastor, guiding the church through important years. A devastating fire gutted the church building on October 22, 1980, but the resilient congregation dedicated a new building just 60 days later on February 17, 1981.
The church celebrated financial freedom with a mortgage burning ceremony on October 27, 1985. In September 1991, Terrell Eldreth was called as pastor, followed by Eric Maggio in September 2011, and Craig Barnett on August 27, 2017.
On March 4, 2019, the church's name was changed to Carlton Oaks Baptist Church. A significant transition occurred on April 4, 2021, when the church moved to a government by a plurality of elders. Bill Rossman was appointed as the first lay elder, and after more than 20 years without deacons, four individuals were appointed to serve as deacons and deaconesses.
As we celebrate 64 years of history, we reflect on the unwavering faith and dedication that have shaped Carlton Oaks Baptist Church into a beacon of hope and community.
Key Dates
March 29, 1959
Pastor Harry Coats held the first service on Easter Sunday at Carmen’s Café (17 people)
October 1, 1959
Officially constituted with 38 charter members meetings held at 9598 & 9600 Halberns Blvd
August 1960
Jerry Harris installed as pastor
December 2, 1961
Began construction on the current building
October 1965
Seth Anderson called as pastor
October 22, 1980
Church building gutted by fire
February 17, 1981
Dedicated new church building after rebuilding it in 60 days
October 27, 1985
Mortgage burning ceremony
September 1991
Terrell Eldreth called as pastor
September 2011
Eric Maggio called as pastor
August 27, 2017
Craig Barnett installed as pastor
March 4, 2019
Name changed to Carlton Oaks Baptist Church
April 4, 2021
Transitioned to church government by plurality of elders.
Bill Rossman appointed as first lay elder.
Having been without deacons for 20+ years, appointed 4 to serve as deacons/deaconess.