Antioch East in Magnolia to Celebrate 175 Years

By Ron Owen, Pastor • Antioch East Baptist Church

      On August 23, 1850, 13 faithful servants of the Lord united to establish Antioch Church. Fast forward to 2025, Antioch East Baptist Church (AEBC) joyfully prepares to celebrate 175 years of God’s enduring blessings on His church, located in the Calhoun community just outside Magnolia, Arkansas.

      In her 175 years, AEBC has seen many changes on this little hill. More than two dozen pastors have come and gone, and many faithful deacons have served her congregation well. Buildings have been enlarged, and spaces created to manage her growing congregation. Even her name has changed over the years. In 1850, she was called Antioch Church. In 1853, she was called The Missionary Church of Christ at Antioch. In 1860, she was named The Baptist Church at Antioch. The first official naming of Antioch East Baptist Church appears in a record book dated May 1902.

      AEBC’s congregation has faithfully followed the Lord’s leading over the years. She is actively involved in sharing the gospel to her community and throughout the world. She is dedicated to equipping and edifying her members through children’s ministries, Bible studies, fellowships and weekly outreach.

      We look forward to celebrating God’s blessings at our “175^th Anniversary Celebration” on August 23 and 24. Four former pastors will be with us that weekend: Mike McEuen, pastor from September 1986 to October 1991; Billy Higgenbotham, pastor from January 1998 to July 2000; Greg Payne, pastor from June 2001 to April 2004; and Matt Hudson, pastor from May 2004 to June 2008.

      I invite everyone to come celebrate with us. On Saturday, August 23, at 6 p.m., we will host a fish fry with all the trimmings to give past and present members, friends and families a chance to fellowship. On Sunday, August 24, beginning at 10 a.m., we will come together in worship and begin a Bible Conference, where each of the four former pastors will share God’s Word with us. Come and rejoice with us over all the Lord has done through AEBC throughout her 175 years!