NOBLESVILLE, Ind. — Situated on a back road of Noblesville near the edge of Hamilton County is a church with the charm of the country, and members whose friendly smiles and amiable ways welcome anyone who comes through the doors. This is Prairie Baptist Church.

Prairie Baptist began in 1835 when Indiana was still frontier. Andrew Jackson was president, there were 24 stars on the flag and Indiana had become a state 19 years before the church was organized.
Jonathan McDonald and his wife, Rebecca, settled in the community before 1835 and he ran the sawmills in the area and cut logs for the construction of homes built around that time. They lived in an area near the present church called Bumble Loo.

Jonathan provided some of the logs that would become the first Prairie Baptist Church. In the same year it was built, 1835, the church organized with 18 charter members. The church was also used as a school for a time.

Church services were held once a month because of the scarcity of those who could preach the gospel, and the mode of travel was difficult in the wilderness area.

Through the years, the church grew from a log cabin to a frame building and finally, to the current brick structure that houses a sanctuary, classrooms, a fellowship hall in the basement and a large foyer.

Currently, the church runs a membership of around 100 people, and has an active role in reaching into the community. The church bus runs regularly on Sunday mornings and Wednesdays to bring in kids from around the area.

All ages are taught the Word of God and the church has a longstanding tradition of excellence in being true and faithful and at the same time, being a place where people sense a warmth and acceptance when coming through the doors.

Throughout the year, several fellowships and events are held, such as the Homecoming in October, Mother/Daughter banquet, Father/Son banquet and our Senior banquet to honor our seasoned citizens.

Another highlight of the year is the Vacation Bible School in June, where kids come from the area to learn about God’s love for them and at the same time have a load of fun, where each day is different and exciting.

Most important is the purpose of the church: To share God’s love with everyone through the message of Jesus Christ and the positive difference He makes in each life. The people of Prairie Baptist believe in setting the example and being light to a dark world.
With a smile on their faces and songs in their hearts, it is truly a place that, when one comes in, they can come home to.
-Pastor Nathan Johnson