Florence / South Carolina / United States
Pastor Bill Monroe picked up a small printed page from another church. Printed on the back were words that hit home. “Malls are trendy, churches should feel timeless.” Since founding Florence Baptist Temple 48 years ago, Pastor Monroe has witnessed decades of cultural whims and yet has remained dedicated to the timeless truth of Scripture and the enduring love of Christ. On any given day, a quick glance at the evening news gives the impression culture is coming apart at the seams. “When people come to church,” Pastor Monroe explains, “they don’t need more of the same.” Because Florence Baptist Temple is concerned for the community as well as the entire Pee Dee region, they want people to be connected with something enduring, authentic, caring, and timeless. That genuine connection is seen within the church as members demonstrate concern for one another. During a recent pastoral care visit to the hospital, a nurse stopped Pastor Monroe and remarked, “I can always tell when one of our patients is from your church. People come to visit them.” Church members are not waiting for an official visit from the pastor. Instead, they are caring for one another and looking out for one another’s needs on a daily basis. The members of Florence Baptist Temple are connected to each other with an authentic and purposeful love. Connection also extends beyond the walls of the church building and into the surrounding community. Through an area-wide sports ministry, which engages hundreds of young people, the church has an opportunity to coach kids and ultimately minister to families. Additionally, Florence Christian School reaches out to offer a stellar education for students in the community from preschool through high school. Connection further multiplies as Florence Baptist Temple joins hands with local ministries like House of Hope, Lighthouse, and Mercy Medical Clinic. Through joint ministry efforts, marginalized residents of the Pee Dee area receive the help and care they need. Certainly culture changes, but Pastor Monroe is thankful for a church that exemplifies time-honored characteristics while ministering to every generation. The vibrancy of Florence Baptist Temple connects people of all ages with enduring truth and authentic Christian love. The connection is real and foundational, never trendy--- but always timeless.
