ANGIE, MARY'S CHAPEL Varnado Louisiana

Varnado, LA

Date Founded: 1907

In 1907, a group of about 30 families from Live Oak Church decided to organize a church in their own community of Varnado. The first services were held in a brush arbor under a small shaded area. Rev. J. W. C. Means, a supply pastor, was handling the charge. Rev. T. W. Williams became the first pastor of the circuit in 1913. Later on, Dudley and Mary Lampton donated an acre of land so that a church could be built. Property adjoining the church (3/4 acre) was later purchased from Charles Wilson.

The original wooden church was torn down in 1946. Under the leadership of Rev. S. G. Reed, a new block building was constructed. The congregation consisted of about 50 members at that time. Mary’s Chapel was completed in 1958 under the leadership of Rev. A. E. Franklin and new pews were purchased. In 1966, the congregation saw the need for more room. Working together, an educational wing was soon constructed. The chairs were donated by members. Air conditioning was installed later that year. Restrooms were added in 1970. Rev. Isaiah McCoy let the congregation in a building renovation in 1971. The church received new floors, carpeting, and the pulpit and altar were remodeled.

By the late 1970’s, it became apparent that a new sanctuary was needed. They began setting aside all money collected on fourth Sundays for the building fund. The new sanctuary was finally completed by the end of the 1980’s.

Source: 1993 Program booklet