Church History
Lockwood's Senior Pastors
1869
1908-1918
​
​
1940’s
1950’s
1962
1964
1965-1980
1980-1988
1988-2023
​
2023-present
Elder John Walker
The Rev. Rochelle
The Rev. W.B. Fallis
The Rev. Parks
Edward Dillon and sons
The Rev. Gaylord Smith
The Rev. George Hovda
The Rev. Clyde Albertson
​
The Rev. Willis Woods
The Rev. Steve Runyon
The Rev. Shayne Looper
​
The Rev. Kevin Looper
A History Of God's Faithfulness
The First Free Regular Baptist Church, founded in 1863, initially met at Lockwood School before constructing its first building in 1871. Under the leadership of Elder John Walker, the church laid down roots and grew. Notable events from the church's diary in 1871 reveal the community's dedication to building the church, with significant contributions from members like Henry Lockwood and H.B. George.
​
The church operated until 1895 before disbanding for unknown reasons. It remained unused until 1907, when it was revived as a Methodist Church. Despite periods of inactivity, the community continually worked to restore and maintain the church building.
​
In 1926, Jacob Woods led a spiritual revival, and evangelist Luther Gallop reopened the church, establishing a Ladies Aid Society and Sunday School. The church transitioned to a non-denominational status in the late 1940s, and it was renamed Lockwood Community Church under Rev. George Hovda's leadership.
​
Significant developments included the addition of new facilities in 1969, the celebration of its centennial in 1971, and the construction of a new sanctuary and fellowship hall in 1982. The church continued to expand, adding staff and new ministries to support its growing congregation.
​
Under Pastor Shayne Looper’s leadership since 1988, the church introduced various programs, such as the Missionary Cadets and Small Group Ministry, which continue to thrive. The church built a new multi-purpose facility in 2008 to accommodate its growth.
​
Lockwood Community Church remains dedicated to worship, community service, and global missions, welcoming all to join in their mission to follow Christ.