Neepawa Baptist Church History

The headline story which appeared in The Northwest Baptist Publication on February 1, 1890 was "New Neepawa Church".

"the three stations, Glendale, Neepawa and Eden were united as one Mission field last spring, with Rev. R. Yeatman in charge. Having a promising town like Neepawa for a centre, and with the excellent country surrounding it, this was felt to be an important mission. The necessity for a suitable place of worship at Neepawa was seen from the very first, and hopes began to be entertained that it would not be very long before the pressing need would be provided for. Yet, it was scarcely expected by anyone that the work of the new year would be undertaken in a new building. Under the leadership of Rev. Yeatman "the Baptist strength on the field was gathered and a desire for forward movement was aroused."

Rev. R. Yeatman was succeeded by the Rev. D.H. McGillivray (October 1889) who "seeing the need of a building stirred up the desire already existing and set to work to secure the desired funds."

The people responded generously, with willing hearts and with a desire to see the work accomplished. The words of Nehemiah 4:6 may well echo how they did it: "So built we the walls; -- for the people had a mind to work." In about eight weeks they raised sufficient funds to purchase three lots (Lots 28, 29, 20) in North Neepawa, now First Ave., "midway between the old town and the town rising at the station, and constructed a 24*36 main sanctuary complete with entry, baptistry and vestry."

The dedication service was held on January 19, 1890. Rev. J.J. Bedst, of Brandon, and Rev. Alex Grant of Winnipeg were invited to conduct the dedication service. Through illness Bro. Grant was not able to be present, and Pastor J.C. McDonald, of Portage la Prairie, took his place. Notwithstanding the prevalent epidemic of "La Grippe" and the inclement weather conditions the house was well filled at all three services that day.


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