Celebrating 40 Years: First Baptist Church of Wildwood

The 1970s marked a change in far western St. Louis County from rural to urban. That was also a time during 1971 when a new, independent Baptist congregation began to take root in what, at the time, was considered "the Pond area."

Today, the First Baptist Church of Wildwood continues its mission to provide worship, fellowship, and Biblical instruction to strengthen families and homes. The church is led by Pastor Eric Winslow, Scott Weldy, leader of the music ministry, and Deacons Andy Young, Steve Cartwright and Rich Stroud.

Cornerstones of this church are its worship services -- including Sunday School and the Sunday morning worship -- and Wednesday evening prayer and Bible study classes. According to the church’s website, these “traditional worship services are not designed to entertain, but to enrich, instruct, and strengthen.”

An extension of the church’s service is its radio ministry, which began in 1998. The 30-minute messages are broadcast on KSIV 1320 AM at 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sundays, as well as on KLPW 1220 AM at 9:30 a.m. Sundays.

For more than 20 years, First Baptist’s Awana Club has ministered to children from 3 years old through sixth grade. The Wednesday evening meetings feature game time, handbook time, and council times. Older youth participate in the Proteen Club on Wednesday nights and regular activities. They also attend summer camp at Wilds Christian Camp in Brevard, NC.

First Baptist Church of Wildwood is located at 2470 Pond Rd. Weekly services include Sunday School at 10 a.m., Sunday Worship at 11 a.m., and Bible study and prayer Wednesdays at 7 p.m.