Our History
In May 1870, six Clinton residents were baptized in the South Branch of the Raritan River. They, along with 31 worshippers from the neighboring Bethlehem Baptist Church, became the original congregation of Clinton Baptist Church. The first pastor, Henry Westcott, was installed in March 1872. In August they moved into their first church home at 55 Leigh Street. Mr. J.G. Leigh donated the land, and the building was constructed for $10,500. For the next 94 years, the Baptists in Clinton worshipped in that building.
In the 1940’s, the congregation began to feel cramped in the Leigh Street building. A committee found and purchased seven acres of land on a hill outside of town, where the present church building is located. Those who did not share the vision left the church at that time, leaving only about a dozen families. These dedicated few, led by Pastor Sparling, took personal loans to build a modest structure with a seating capacity of 300. They did most of the work themselves.
When the new church was completed in 1967, the members brought several remembrances from the church on Leigh Street: the cornerstone and bell, which can be seen in the yard beside the present church building, an old Bible from the original church building, and a cross handmade by Pastor Earl Cook, which now hangs in the church balcony. The first service in the new building at the new location was held on May 7, 1967.
For several years prior to 2004, the church had periodically discussed the possibility of changing its name. While not changing its Baptist affiliation, it was sensed that there would be greater opportunity to reach the surrounding community without having the label “Baptist” as part of the church’s name. The congregation voted on the new name, South Ridge Community Church, on November 23, 2003. On Sunday, March 28, 2004, the church held its last services as Clinton Baptist Church and celebrated its rich history. On April 4, 2004, the congregation gathered for the first time as South Ridge Community Church.
While times have not always been smooth or trouble-free, the heritage of Clinton Baptist Church, now South Ridge Community Church, has always been a community that provides a firm foundation for those who desire to meet, know, and serve the Lord, experiencing belonging, embracing His grace, and extending His love, both in our community and to the world beyond.
