Who We Are

Our History

Organized in the autumn of 1842 with six charter members.

1842
Organized
1868
A place to gather
1913
Remodeled
1940s
Wartime witness
Today
Across the street and around the world

The Beginning

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, and 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.

Raymond Presbyterian Church sanctuary in 1926
Our sanctuary in 1926.

The Growth

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 building was remodeled in 1913 to provide the inclined floor and raised pulpit area.

The historical marker in front of Raymond Presbyterian Church
The historical marker in front of the church on Port Gibson Street.

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

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?

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