In an effort to be responsive and responsible during the COVID-19 pandemic, the church has left the building. 

“Perhaps more so than any other moment in our lifetimes, we can see clearly the difference between the church and the church house,” First Baptist Church of Middlesboro Pastor Zach Bay said. “That’s healthy and good and the proper role of the church house is to support the life and ministry of the church and to be a reminder of God in our daily lives.” 

First Baptist Church has continued to carry out traditions while the church door remains closed. 

“As we continue our online in the meantime posture, I want to encourage the community to keep an eye out for occasional posts from the church house,” he said. “To the extent that they call your attention to God in these difficult days, they have done their job.” 

Several churches throughout the community are holding live video services and a few have even continued to hold drive thru services in the church parking lots. 

Gov. Andy Beshear announced this week that houses of worship will be able to have in-person services, with a reduced capacity, starting on May 20. To allow for a gradual reopening of churches, Beshear stated that it was his intent to set the date on a Wednesday.

First Baptist Church encourages the community to continue following their Facebook page for the daily bell ringers and also stories from the church house.