Friendship Baptist Church Ministries

Ascension Praise Dancers

The Praise Dancers were organized at Friendship Baptist Church in 2003. Tfifany Moore Palmer was founder and choreographer. The dancers praise God through dance at fourth Sunday worship service with a variety of sacred music.

Audio Ministry

The FBC Audio/Video Ministry was established by Rev. Alf Mills, Sr. The purpose of the Audio/Video Ministry is to support other areas of ministry in making disciples of Jesus Christ. The Audio/Video Ministry is a service ministry to the Pastor, congregation, and the sick and shut-ins.

Boy Scouts

The Boy Scouts have been active in Friendship (Troop Pack 463) since 1960 or earlier, and played an integral role in the life and development of the young boys growing up in Friendship and the Community. Many activities from the beginning placed emphasis on outdoors survival skills, teaching scouts all about fishing, camping, swimming, recognizing poisonous reptiles, etc.

Black History Committee

The mission of the Black History Committee (BHP) Committee is to present educationally sound historical docudramas in a format that is meaningful, motivating, and memorable. The live productions also carry out an evangelistic mission, by infusing biblical principles through character portrayals and within event reenactments.

Beautification Ministry

The Beautification Ministry began under Rev Mills’ pastorate, and organized by Ada Boynton. The purpose is to prayerfully use God’s gifts and talents to adorn his house of ownership, so that what your eyes see, will bring joy to your soul and a calmness to worship.

Children's Church

MISSION: To bring children to Christ and train them to walk and minister in the power of the Holy Spirit. Some of the mission projects include, “Feed the Children”, and in later years the children were involved in the annual Operation Christmas Child Shoebox mission. Puppetry was incorporated into the program and Bibles were provided each child.

Church Council Ministry

The Church Council was organized under Rev. James Williams.
They are responsible for presenting a calendar of events to the Church at the annual Church meeting in October for the upcoming year and requesting an annual financial audit. The Church Council consists of Chairpersons from each of the Church Ministries.

Deaconess Ministry

The objectives of the organization included to: assist the deacons, engage in Christian fellowship, and perform outreach. The ministry duties include: Provide administrative support by maintaining the properties for the two ordinances of the church (Baptism and Communion); Serve as coordinators for the setup of Communion and organizers for the Baptism activities; Responsible for regular visits with the sick and shut-in members.

FCIC Board

Friendship Community Improvement Corp. (FCIC) History is committed to providing assistance to low to moderate income families and individuals through affordable housing, community development, medical care access, job development and other support.

Hospitality Ministry

The Ministry serves as the internal care unit of the church. It strives to meet the needs of the entire church, and greets members and visitors as they arrive for Sunday services. The ministry extends a welcoming hand to guest and new members who accept Christ by helping them feel at ease and become familiar with existing church programs.

Labuda Doll Min.

Church member, Anne Matthies Muzi introduced the Labuda Dolls, West African-styled rag dolls, to Friendship Baptist Church in 2011. She developed the project in the late 1980s to assist West African women needing work while in the Peace Corps. The children of Sierra Leone had only stick dolls. They began to make Rag dolls that represented the beautiful clothing that the women wore and sold them to the service organizations.

Kitchen Ministry

The Friendship Baptist Church Kitchen Ministry cooks and prepares food for the following special occasions: Friendship Church Anniversaries, Pastor’s Appreciation Anniversary, Funeral Repasts, and the Fifth Sunday Family & Friends Fellowship Dinner. They also, maintain the kitchen storage and pantry areas.

Men's Min. & Security Team

The Men’s Ministry and Security Team were organized under the direction of Rev. Clinton Edwards. The ministry participates in educating the community, and have participated in litter pickup in neighborhood streets of Aiken, S.C. They also assist homeless visitors and others with special needs requests. They are responsible for maintaining security of the church grounds while services are in progress.

A.B. Miles Voices of Praise

A.B. Miles Voices of Praise was organized as group comprised of young and older persons to sing gospel music and fill a needed void by bringing spirit and life into the worship services. The A.B. Miles Voices of Praise sing on the Second, Fourth, and as a combined Choir on the 5th Sundays.

Senior Choir

Senior Choir History – The Church Choir was organized to rendered various kinds of music: hymns, anthems, and spirituals. The choir rendered Cantatas and Christmas programs that were uplifting to our church and the community. The choir sings on the first Sunday of each month, serves at funerals and revivals or whenever they are requested.

Junior Choir/Warriors for Christ Praise Choir

The Junior Choir/Warriors for Christ Praise Choir – Friendship Baptist Church’s Junior Choir was organized under the late Rev. Bush. It later became known as the “Young Peoples Choir.” The choir has encouraged the young people in many phases of church activities and christian leadership. The choir sing God ‘s praises to the top of their voices.

 

 

John Phillips Choir

John Phillips Choir – The John Phillips Choir was organized in 1975 by Mrs. Flossie Hammond. It targets children between the ages of 6-11. The Choir sings on every fourth Sunday, and participates in worship services with musical instruments and special presentations.

Friendship Male Chorus

The Male Chorus Ministry is composed of men who are excited to use their voices to help worship in the spirit with praise through songs, scriptures and prayers. They have developed into a ministry that expresses love, peace, and harmony through the songs they sing. Their singing is inspirational because they sing for the glory of the Lord.

Friendship Baptist Church Pipers

Friendship Baptist Church Pipers – The FBC Pipers were organized by Ada Gallman and play their recorders in Sunday Worship service on fourth Sundays. The group participates on various church programs. The Pipers enthusiastically plays during various church programs throughout the year. The ages varies.

Pastor's Aide Ministry

Pastor’s Aide Ministry was organized In 1881, to assist the pastor through prayer, encouraging words and actions, gifts, acts of kindness, and other expressions of love.

Senior Missionary

The Missionary Society was organized after the building of the Church. The mission of the Senior Missionary Ministry is to increase the love of God and help meet the needs of human kind by helping our brothers and sisters through outreach ministry…God’s love, mission and service. Throughout the year the ministry offers a monthly Soup & Clothes Give Away Program; to the community.

Sunday School Ministry

Sunday School Ministry – The Friendship Baptist Church Sunday School has always been a vital and active ministry of this church since 1866. The Sunday School Ministry is the main teaching arm of the Church. The Sunday School annually sponsors the Easter, Christmas, and Vacation Bible School Programs.

Shoe Box Ministry

The Shoe Box Ministry, also known as Operation Christmas Child is a mission outreach program that provides needy children around the world with shoe boxes filled with small toys, hygiene items and school supplies, along with literature sharing the good news of God’s love. Friendship Baptist Church has participated in this Samaritan’s Purse mission program since Year 2000.

Usher Board Ministry

Friendship Baptist Church Usher Board – The mission of the Friendship Baptist Church’s Usher Board, is to make the members and visitors feel comfortable and to help the pastor promote worship by lending spiritual dignity to the church service.

Trustee Board Ministry

The Trustee Board of this church was organized under Rev. John Phillips, founder. The Board has been in existence over the 150 years. Their duties include property management, protection, and up keep; in addition to implementing financial transactions as authorized by the Church. The Board also secures services of personnel as needed.

Youth Group/ Warriors For Christ

Youth Group/Warriors for Christ – Friendship Baptist Church has nurtured the spiritual and educational development of its young people from its earliest history under several names and forms of organization. The goal is to nurture and guide our young people in their religious, social, education, cultural and emotional development.

Van/Transportation Ministry

The Van/Transportation Ministry has been functioning for many years. The purpose is to provide transportation for Church members to attend worship services and special events. Deacon Charles Mitchell, Deacon Willie Green and Johnny Freeman are the primary individuals who provide transportation services.

Young Adult Ministry Serving (YAMS)

The FBC Young Adult Ministry was formed in 2012. The ministry was formed to encourage young adults ages 21-39 to grow as followers of Christ by engaging in authentic worship, sound biblical teaching and developing a deeper relationship with other adults within our community of faith.

Women's Ministry

The Women’s Ministry was organized in 2011. The purpose of the ministry is to teach, encourage and minister to women of all ages and stages of life to rediscover joy, contentment and value in being as the scripture states in Titus 2:3-5 wherein, the older women would nurture the next generation of women. The ministry strives to uplift women of FBC.

Nursery/Pre-School

The Nursery at FBC has existed for many years and has provided a safe and caring environment for infants and toddlers. Current and former church members were instrumental in assuring its availability and quality. The Preschool Class was established in 2009 to provide a bridge for 4 and 5 year olds from the nursery to Children’s Church. The preschoolers are taught bible lessons which include bible stories, memory verses, songs, puppetry and hands-on activities.
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Ascension Praise Dancers
The Praise Dancers were organized at Friendship Baptist Church in 2003. Tfifany Moore Palmer was founder and choreographer. The dancers praise God through dance at fourth Sunday worship service with a variety of sacred music. (Encourages youth and children.)
Black History Committee (BHP)
The mission of the Black History Committee (BHP) Committee is to present educationally sound historical docudramas in a format that is meaningful, motivating, and memorable. The live productions also carry out an evangelistic mission, by infusing biblical principles through character portrayals and within event reenactments. In selecting each year’s theme, historical figures are considered who exemplify faith, contribute to society, overcome obstacles, and serve as positive role models.
Beautification Ministry
The Beautification Ministry began under Rev Mills’ pastorate, and organized by Ada Boynton. The purpose is to prayerfully use God’s gifts and talents to adorn his house of ownership, so that what your eyes see, will bring joy to your soul and a calmness to worship. The Team is responsible for decorating the Church and facilities during holidays and special occasions. The ministry has also attended to flowers and trees on the Church grounds.
Bible Study
The purpose of a study Bible is to help you understand Scripture more clearly as you read it; it usually contains notes for biblical interpretation, book introductions to provide context, and maps for visual pictures of locations. It also provides opportunity to ask questions, participate in discussions and is open to all.
Summer/Eagle Enrichment Program
In the 1990s, the Summer Enrichment Program was established to provide educational, and recreational support to community students taught by qualified instructors. Currently, the Eagle Enrichment Program which provides youth, ages 6-13, the opportunity for youth to improve their academic, social and spiritual lives. The summer program offers a fulfilling academic curriculum focused on Math, Science, English/Language Arts, Music, Art, Technology, and Career Exploration. The opportunities for fun include on-site and off-site activities such as lessons in tennis, swimming and golf. There are two sessions of three weeks each in June and July. (Encourages youth and children.)
Deacons Ministry
The Church Roll during 1892 lists eight active Deacons serving under the leadership of church Founder, Rev. John Phillips. According to church records they were: Moses Johnson, Samuel Smalls, Jackson Miles, Alexander Williams, Brooks Williams, Lewis Johnson, Brown Sentenant, and E. Blocker.

The Deacons assist the Pastor in fulfilling the vision and goals of the church, and performing duties regarding all church matters. The Deacons serve communion on the first Sundays during worship services. They also administer communion to sick and shut in- members and assist with special needs.

Friendship Community Improvement Corp. (FCIC) History

The FCIC is committed to providing assistance to low to moderate income families and individuals through affordable housing, community development, medical care access, job development and other support.

Labuda Doll Ministry
Church member, Anne Matthies Muzi introduced the Labuda Dolls, West African-styled rag dolls, to Friendship Baptist Church in 2011. She developed the project in the late 1980s to assist West African women needing work while in the Peace Corps. The children of Sierra Leone had only stick dolls. They began to make Rag dolls that represented the beautiful clothing that the women wore and sold them to the service organizations. The dolls have been sold in Aiken at special events as a fund raiser project for The Center for African American History, Art and Culture.
Men's Ministry and Security Team
The Men’s Ministry and Security Team were organized under the direction of Rev. Clinton Edwards. The ministry participates in educating the community, and have participated in litter pickup in neighborhood streets of Aiken, S.C. They also assist homeless visitors and others with special needs requests. The Security Team has been functioning since 2006. They are responsible for maintaining security of the church grounds while services are in progress. The Men’s ministry work with the Security Team in overall Church security issues.
A.B. Miles Voices of Praise
A.B. Miles Voices of Praise was organized as group comprised of young and older persons to sing gospel music and fill a needed void by bringing spirit and life into the worship services. The A.B. Miles Voices of Praise sing on the Second, Fourth, and as a combined Choir on the 5th Sundays.
Junior Choir/Warriors for Christ Praise Choir
The Junior Choir/Warriors for Christ Praise Choir – Friendship Baptist Church’s Junior Choir was organized under the late Rev. Bush. It later became known as the “Young Peoples Choir.” The choir has encouraged the young people in many phases of church activities and christian leadership. The choir sing God ‘s praises to the top of their voices. (Encourages youth and children.)
Friendship Male Chorus
The Male Chorus Ministry is composed of men who are excited to use their voices to help worship in the spirit with praise through songs, scriptures and prayers. They have developed into a ministry that expresses love, peace, and harmony through the songs they sing. Their singing is inspirational because they sing for the glory of the Lord.
Pastor's Aide Ministry
Pastor’s Aide Ministry was organized In 1881, to assist the pastor through prayer, encouraging words and actions, gifts, acts of kindness, and other expressions of love.
Shoe Box Ministry
The Shoe Box Ministry, also known as Operation Christmas Child is a mission outreach program that provides needy children around the world with shoe boxes filled with small toys, hygiene items and school supplies, along with literature sharing the good news of God’s love. Friendship Baptist Church has participated in this Samaritan’s Purse mission program since Year 2000.
Trustee Board Ministry
The Trustee Board of this church was organized under the leadership of Rev. John Phillips, founder. The Trustee Board has been in existence over the 150 years. Their duties include property management, protection, and up keep; in addition to implementing financial transactions as authorized by the Church. The Board also secures services of personnel as needed.
Van/Transportation Ministry
The Van/Transportation Ministry has been functioning for many years. The purpose is to provide transportation for Church members to attend worship services and special events. Deacon Charles Mitchell, Deacon Willie Green and Johnny Freeman are the primary individuals who provide transportation services.
Women's Ministry
The Women’s Ministry was organized in 2011 with the encouragement of Rev. Edwards. Robbin Edwards, wife of Pastor Edwards, initiated the ministry and served as the first President. The purpose of the ministry is to teach, encourage and minister to women of all ages and stages of life to rediscover joy, contentment and value in being as the scripture states in Titus 2:3-5 wherein, the older women would nurture the next generation of women. The ministry strives to uplift women of FBC by providing emotional, physical and spiritual support.
Nursery/Pre-School
The Nursery at Friendship Baptist Church has existed for many years and has provided a safe and caring environment for infants and toddlers. Current and former church members were instrumental in assuring its availability and quality.

The Preschool Class was established in 2009 to provide a bridge for 4 and 5 year olds from the nursery to Children’s Church. The preschoolers are taught bible lessons which include bible stories, memory verses, songs, puppetry and hands-on activities. The curriculum presents God’s word in a fun and engaging manner.

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Audio Ministry
The Friendship Baptist Church Audio/Video Ministry was established by Rev. Alf Mills, Sr. Over the past 10 years, the ministry was upgraded and improved under the leadership of Rev. Clinton Edwards. The purpose of the Audio/Video Ministry is to support other areas of ministry in making disciples of Jesus Christ. The Audio/Video Ministry is a service ministry to the Pastor, congregation, and the sick and shut-ins. The ministry records worship services, and other areas of ministry. The ministry also has the responsibility of managing the sound system for various services of the Church.
Boy Scouts

The Boy Scouts have been active in Friendship since 1960 or earlier, and played an integral role in the life and development of the young boys growing up in Friendship and the Community. Many activities from the beginning placed emphasis on outdoors survival skills, teaching scouts all about fishing, camping, swimming, recognizing poisonous reptiles, etc . Troop 463 Pack and Troop are still active. The Friendship Baptist Church Scouts Unit is 463. (Encourages youth and children.)

Children's Church Ministry
MISSION: To bring children to Christ and train them to walk and minister in the power of the Holy Spirit. Some of the mission projects include, “Feed the Children”, and in later years the children were involved in the annual Operation Christmas Child Shoebox mission. Puppetry was incorporated into the program and Bibles were provided each child. The learning sessions and worship have consistently followed a structured curriculum. The Children’s Church Handbook is provided to the children to encourage the memorization of selected scriptures, flag pledges, and the Lord’s Prayer. (Encourages youth and children.)
Christian Education Ministry
The purpose of the Christian Education Ministry is to glorify God by enabling every member to learn from the scriptures and to learn how to live like Christ. The Director of Christian Education is responsible to the Pastor for Christian education training of Deacons, Trustees, Ministries’ heads, and all members of the Church. The Christian Education Ministry is also responsible for: New Members Orientation, Leadership training, and Incentive programs of the church. Educational activities including Sunday School, Bible Study, and Vacation Bible School, with the Pastor’s supervision. Rev. Clinton Edwards, Jr., is currently the Christian Education Ministry, point of contact.
Church Council Ministry
The Church Council was organized under the leadership of Rev. James Williams.
They are responsible for presenting a calendar of events to the Church at the annual Church meeting in October for the upcoming year and requesting an annual financial audit. The Church Council consists of Chairpersons from each of the Church Ministries.
Deaconess Ministry
This auxiliary was organized as the Deacons’ Aid Club during the pastorate of the late Rev. Phillip A Callaham. The objectives of the organization included to: assist the deacons, engage in Christian fellowship, and perform outreach. The name of the auxiliary was changed to Deaconess Board during the pastorate of the late Rev. Norman L. Bush.

The ministry duties include: Provide administrative support by maintaining the properties for the two ordinances of the church (Baptism and Communion); Serve as coordinators for the setup of Communion and organizers for the Baptism activities; Responsible for regular visits with the sick and shut-in members of the church, and fulfill other duties when called upon.

Hospitality Ministry
The Ministry serves as the internal care unit of the church. It strives to meet the needs of the entire church, and greets members and visitors as they arrive for Sunday services. The ministry extends a welcoming hand to guest and new members who accept Christ by helping them feel at ease and become familiar with existing church programs.

The ministry also visits the sick and shut-in members and families during times of bereavement. Support is provided to the families by offering meals, prayers, and other acts of kindness. Fruit baskets and flower arrangements are prepared for members and delivered during Easter and Christmas. The ministry also participates in the monthly outreach ministry at Christ Central by spearheading other ministries of the church and wards to donate and serve meals.

Kitchen Ministry
The Friendship Baptist Church Kitchen Ministry cooks and prepares food for the following special occasions: Friendship Church Anniversaries, Pastor’s Appreciation Anniversary, Funeral Repasts, and the Fifth Sunday Family & Friends Fellowship Dinner. They also, maintain the kitchen storage and pantry areas.
Music Ministry
In the earliest documented history of Friendship Baptist Church, it is noted that the Church Choir (Music Ministry) was organized to oversee the presentation of music in worship and to help worship in the holy spirit through music. The music entities currently serving in the Music Ministry include: A.B. Miles Voices of Praise, John Phillips Choir, FBC Pipers, Male Chorus, Senior Choir, Warriors for Christ Praise Choir, and FBC Praise Team. Instrumental Musicians: Bass Guitar, Keyboard, Organist, Piano, and Drums.
Senior Choir
Senior Choir History – The Church Choir was organized to rendered various kinds of music: hymns, anthems, and spirituals. The choir rendered Cantatas and Christmas programs that were uplifting to our church and the community. The choir sings on the first Sunday of each month, serves at funerals and revivals or whenever they are requested.
John Phillips Choir
John Phillips Choir – The John Phillips Choir was organized in 1975 by Mrs. Flossie Hammond. It targets children between the ages of 6-11. The Choir sings on every fourth Sunday, and participates in worship services with musical instruments and special presentations. (Encourages youth and children.)
Friendship Baptist Church Pipers
Friendship Baptist Church Pipers – The FBC Pipers were organized by Ada Gallman and play their recorders in Sunday Worship service on fourth Sundays. The group participates on various church programs. The Pipers enthusiastically plays during various church programs throughout the year. The ages varies.
Senior Missionary Ministry
Senior Missionary Ministry – The Missionary Society was organized after the building of the Church. The mission of the Senior Missionary Ministry is to increase the love of God and help meet the needs of human kind by helping our brothers and sisters through outreach ministry…God’s love, mission and service. Throughout the year the ministry offers a monthly Soup & Clothes Give Away Program; to the community. An inspirational discussion about Church and God is shared with the attendees through tracts and speeches. During Thanksgiving and Christmas, dinners are provided to the senior citizens, church members, friends, and the community. They meet monthly and serve our church and community in the spirit of love.
Sunday School Ministry
Sunday School Ministry – The Friendship Baptist Church Sunday School has always been a vital and active ministry of this church since 1866. The Sunday School Ministry is the main teaching arm of the Church. The Sunday School annually sponsors the Easter, Christmas, and Vacation Bible School Programs. (Encourages youth and children.)
Usher Board
Friendship Baptist Church Usher Board – The mission of the Friendship Baptist Church’s Usher Board, is to make the members and visitors feel comfortable and to help the pastor promote worship by lending spiritual dignity to the church service. (Encourages youth and children.)
Youth Group/Warriors for Christ
Youth Group/Warriors for Christ – Friendship Baptist Church has nurtured the spiritual and educational development of its young people from its earliest history under several names and forms of organization. The goal is to nurture and guide our young people in their religious, social, education, cultural and emotional development.
Young Adult Ministry Serving (YAMS)
Young Adult Ministry Serving (YAMS) – The Friendship Baptist Church Young Adult Ministry was formed in 2012. The ministry was formed to encourage young adults ages 21-39 to grow as followers of Christ by engaging in authentic worship, sound biblical teaching and developing a deeper relationship with other adults within our community of faith. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 tells us “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength.” These words have given the YAMS the desire to work with senior citizens within our church, the Christ Central outreach ministry and to provide workshops to encourage fruitful living as we grow in Christ.
FBC Mentoring Ministry
The Mentoring Ministry with Schofield Middle School began as a collaborative effort between Friendship Baptist Church and South Aiken Presbyterian Church in September, 2012 to provide to Schofield students support from the community. Volunteers from both churches are trained at beginning of each school year to mentor 6th to 8th grade students who volunteer to participate in the program, with parental consent. Mentors provide their assigned student weekly with support, encouragement, and help with study habits, homework, special projects, and a listening ear when needed. Some mentors are involved with their mentees in their extra-curricular activities. Mentors are needed, as you can make a difference in a student’s life.