Pine Grove Baptist Church
Santa Maria, California
Church History
- On August 15, 1962, First Baptist Church of Santa Maria voted to purchase 2 plus acres of land at the corner of Bradley and Rice Ranch Roads for the price of $23,000 with the purpose of starting a branch church. It was the site of the original Pine Grove School.
- In October 1963 a Sunday School was begun in a house on this property.
- Groundbreaking for the first building project took place on November 3, 1963. The two-story educational building of 7,200 sq. ft. was built for $65,000. The first services were held in the building on October 18, 1964. A dedication service was held Sunday, April 11, 1965.
- The process of organizing as a local church was completed on December 28, 1964.
- Fifty-three people signed as charter members of Pine Grove Baptist Church.
- In 1966, the Awana program was begun with the Guards club for girls. This program continues today, teaching children, from three years old through high school, God’s Word.
- On October 14, 1970, the church became independent from First Baptist Church, in accordance with the original plan of both groups.
- Groundbreaking for the sanctuary building of 7500 square feet, with seating for 400, was held on June 17, 1973. The first service in the new building was on February 10, 1974. The Dedication Service was held on March 15, 1974. The final payment on the mortgage was made on December 1, 1988. A mortgage burning celebration was held on January 29, 1989.
- On August 27, 1975, the church voted to proceed with the purchase of one acre of land west of the church for $30,000. This Rice Ranch Road property included a house and two garages.
Pastors:
Greg Larson, with his wife Julia and their three daughters: August 2015 – Present
Bruce McLain, with his wife Margery and their three children: June 1990 – December 2014
Glen Golike, with his wife Judy and their three sons: January 1970 – January 1990
Harlan Rahilly, with his wife Harriet and their two daughters: September 1964-June 1969
Associate Pastors:
George Hough
D.J. Bayne
Dick Parker
Greg Sanders
Mark Lixey
Tim Farley
Current missionaries commissioned by Pine Grove Baptist Church
Evandro & Erica da Silva: Baptist Mid-Missions to Brazil
Church Affiliations
California Association of Regular Baptist Churches
General Association of Regular Baptist Churches