Morningside Baptist Church began not in a sanctuary, but in a home—built on faith, vision, and a desire to see God move in a new way.

On November 10, 1976, a small group gathered in the home of Duane Garrett to discuss the possibility of starting a new church. Those present—Lee Green, Myron Garrett, Charlie Saunders, Clyburn Wilson, and Duane Garrett—could not have fully known what God was about to begin.

Just days later, on November 12, the group met again at the former King’s Table restaurant. By the third meeting on November 14, a clear direction was forming. Then on November 16, nearly 50 people gathered—evidence that the vision was already growing. At that meeting, plans were made to secure a pastor, pianist, and a place to worship.

God answered quickly.

On November 19, 1976, Dr. Dick H. Hall Jr. agreed to serve as pastor. Only two days later, on November 21, he preached the very first sermon in the King’s Table building. Titled “I Will Build My Church” from Matthew 16:18, the message was heard by 64 people—the very first congregation of what would become Morningside.

Just one week later, on November 28, 1976, the group was officially recognized as the Winder Baptist Mission.

The church continued to grow rapidly. On March 20, 1977, the congregation voted to purchase 7.74 acres on Maddox Road (now Miles Patrick Road), with Duane Garrett generously donating an additional 1.1 acres. It was during this time the name Morningside Baptist Church was chosen—a name that would carry forward a legacy of faith.

On May 6, 1977, the church was formally constituted with 55 charter members. The first deacons included James McElhannon, Clyburn Wilson, T.J. Standridge, Charlie Saunders, and Earl Brassfield, with Duane Garrett serving as chairman.

That same year marked major milestones. Groundbreaking for the first church building took place on July 17, 1977. On September 13, 1977, Morningside Baptist Church was welcomed into the Apalachee Baptist Association. Less than a year later, on April 30, 1978, the new building was dedicated, with services held in the basement.

As the church continued to grow, so did its facilities and ministry. On May 17, 1981, the congregation moved into the sanctuary. Over the years, meaningful spaces were dedicated to honor those who faithfully served:

• The fellowship hall in honor of Charlie Saunders (November 1982)

• The pavilion in honor of T.J. Standridge (November 1986)

• The library in memory of Vicky McElhannon (March 1987)

In March 1987, the church expanded again by purchasing an additional 7.3 acres of land—preparing for future growth.

Throughout the years, many faithful leaders have helped shape Morningside - Building committee chairmen included Charlie Saunders, Lee Green, Duane Garrett, Bobby Garrett, John Coddington, and Raymond Gray. Pastors and ministers—both full-time and interim—have included Dr. Dick H. Hall Jr., Bernard Deacons, Rex Long, Bill Crowe, Dr. Joe Slocum, Fred Breed, Mark Randolph, Truman Skaggs, John Johnson, and James L. Yopp.

From a living room gathering to a thriving church family, Morningside Baptist Church stands as a testimony to God’s faithfulness—built on a foundation of prayer, people, and purpose.