Get to know us

Over 225 years ago on Friday July 5, 1799 met in log meeting house on Jay Hill. In September 1801 William Goding was ordained as an evangelist by the church. Jay Baptist's 1st Pastor called was Elder Samuel Jackson October 18,1800 no mention of acceptance and Year later Elder Wing was called but once again no mention of acceptance.

On March 15, 1802 set aside as a day of prayer and fasting seeking God's guidance for the direction of finding an under-shepherd. Two years later Brother Joseph Adams was called January 9, 2004 and he lead the flock for 14 years.

Next mention of a called pastor was Hugh Dempsy on June 28, 1853. His children had given the Shepherd window now in the church and pictured on our website as a memorial to him. With one of his grandchildren visiting the church in the 1960s from Florida.

In 1890 under the leadership of Rev J.R. Herrick the decision was made to construct a new church. Low point hit by 1918 due to Depression was reached with only a faithful few keeping the doors open.

From 1931-1947, Rev S.H Callahan, Rev Elwood Goss, Rev Kershaw, Rev Wesley Mills, and Rev James Mackillop had all lead Jay Baptist church.

In June 1950 a period of regrowth began as the church call was answered by Rev H. Christy Schjeveland followed by; Rev George Craft in 1954, Rev Lester Tufts 1961-1966, Rev Gerald Matthews in 1967, Rev Jerry Cole 1972, Rev Robert K Smith in 1980, by Rev W. Orman Calden.

Now in July 2024 Jay called Pastor Chris Dalessio to be our new leader.