Rockmart Presbyterian Church

In the late 1860′s, eight dedicated Presbyterians, including early Welsh settlers, met in the Van Wert Methodist Church and formed the congregation from which the Rockmart Presbyterian Church grew. The church held its organizational meeting on May 28, 1871 and is the oldest continuing Presbyterian Church in Polk County. A few years later in 1878 land was obtained from philanthropist Seaborn Jones for a token payment of five dollars. During the next four years the building at the corner of Slate and Marble Streets was constructed of native slate with walls 28 inches thick.

Renovations to the facility have occurred throughout the years with the most recent one in January of 2005 when the sanctuary floor gave way. The old flooring had to be completely torn out and replaced. The sanctuary was renovated but its simple style maintained. Visitors comment on the genuine, sweet spirit found within. From earliest remembrances there was a Sunday School. Classes were held in the corners of the building near the potbellied stoves for heat earlier and now are placed throughout the facility. The history and tradition that began in the 1860′s has continued to present day providing a unique and full heritage for the congregation. This heritage would not have continued if it had not been for faithful members who maintained the building and deposited monthly tithes during difficult years.

Until 1984 the Session and board of Deacons governed the church. The church is now on a unicameral system consisting of nine rotating elders who serve three year terms. Committee assignments include Christian Education, Worship, Budget/Finance, Buildings and Grounds, Community Outreach, Congregational Care and Congregational Growth. Elders chair these committees and are always looking for interested members to serve so that ministry is expanded. Active groups of the church include: the Presbyterian Women, Men of the Church and Salt and Peppers for senior citizens. A monthly breakfast is offered to help raise funds for youth events and a monthly meal on the second Sunday of the month fosters fellowship. On Wednesday evenings a Bible Study takes place. Conversation is encouraged as members engage with the Scriptures and find relevance for their own lives.

Ministry occurs in a variety of ways from financial and volunteer support given locally, including Red Cross, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Relay for Life Cancer Drive and the United Fund. Two new projects provided are a Mother’s Morning Out Program and the Safe Haven Program. These and our new Pilates/Yoga class have expanded our outreach into the community. And there are even more which we are excited about!

The most loved activity of the church is our Bi-annual Christmas Pageant that is offered for the community. Every other year the church yard becomes a manger set. Costumes, music and readings make the story of Jesus’ birth come to life. The adoring angels and bowing wise men provide a visual scene that lingers and fills the viewer with wonder and awe. This is a highlight for the members of the congregation and community as all participate in this moving scene.

In 1871 the Rockmart Presbyterian Church was established to the glory of God and the service of all people to minister to the community of Rockmart by word and deed and to the world by prayers and giving. This continues to be the goal of this historic church – to dedicate itself in service for the current day and on into the future.