Light in the community

First Baptist Church Jackson was entirely redone -- from floor to ceiling -- with new carpet, a large screen with a high-definition projection system, chairs to replace pews and a state-of-the-art sound system.

About a year ago, First Baptist Church Jackson started looking at improving its environment. A team was assembled to consider possible renovations to the church's sanctuary and welcoming area. The team researched the possibilities. And then, when a new pastor, the Rev. Lucas Clabough, came aboard in August 2013, he steered the team in a more modern direction. In January, renovation of the sanctuary began, and three months and $300,000 later, the church's makeover was complete.

"We have completely remodeled our sanctuary to create an atmosphere of worship," said Pastor Lucas.

The place was entirely redone -- from floor to ceiling -- with new carpet, a large screen with a high-definition projection system, new stage and room lighting, chairs to replace pews and a state- of-the-art sound system. The welcome center has also been renovated.

"The welcome area has been updated to be a place to connect with the life of First Baptist Jackson. The children's wing has also been modernized with a secure check-in system, indoor playground equipment, new worship area and kid-approved interactive games," explained Pastor Lucas.

Josh Hensley, right, and Lucas Clabough stand inside the sanctuary of First Baptist Church in Jackson, Monday April 14, 2014. (Laura Simon)

Not only has the church's appearance been updated, but its staff also experienced some changes. A new minister of worship and media -- Josh Hensley -- was brought in in December, and he said he was very well received by the community.

"We've basically rebranded ourselves, and that's what we are going for, just becoming that light again within the community for First Baptist Church Jackson," Hensley said.

A native of Campbellsville, Ky., Hensley is in his 11th year of ministry. At First Baptist Church Jackson, he is in charge multimedia facets of the services, as well as printing done at the church and coordination of logos and the new church website, firstbaptistjackson.tv.

According to Pastor Lucas, Hensley "strives to encourage an attitude and lifestyle of worship within the people and community, as a whole."

Pastor Lucas is from Maryville, Tenn., and has served in ministry for more than a decade in Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and, now, Missouri. He earned a bachelor's degree at Boyce College, and then moved on to a master's degree in divinity at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a master's degree in theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He says he seeks to engage the culture and values of justice, mercy, community and peace.

Pastor Lucas was also warmly welcomed to the church community in Jackson.

"The church people are enthusiastic about doing everything we can to love the community and let everyone know that First Baptist Jackson is a place of hope," he explained.

In addition to Pastor Lucas and Josh Hensley, the church staff includes Jean Schweain, senior adult ministry director, and Lindsey Hutson, children's ministry director, who joined the staff in January.

Pastor Lucas and his team have ambitious projects for the future of First Baptist Jackson.

"While we will continue to improve the physical structure, our future plans will primarily be focused on helping those in need, changing lives, offering grace and tolerance for those who feel broken, inspiring people to embrace their dreams, and living as a community with a global mission of justice, peace, hope and humanitarian relief," said Pastor Lucas.

Sunday services at the church, 212 S High St., are as follows: 8:30 a.m., blended worship gathering; 9:45 a.m., Bible study (Sunday school); 11 a.m., modern worship gathering; and 6 p.m., worship gathering. Youth Bible study is a 6 p.m. Wednesday, and prayer meeting is at 6:15 Wednesday.

For more information about First Baptist Jackson, visit its website or telephone 573-243-8415.

Pertinent address:

212 S. High St., Jackson, MO, 63755