Eastridge

The story of Eastridge Baptist Church in Red Oak is a testament to the power of churches working together, guided by faith and the support of the Ellis Baptist Association (EBA). This story, still unfolding, is one of perseverance, hope, and renewed purpose.

Just a few years ago, Eastridge Baptist Church was a thriving congregation with around 350 people attending worship weekly. They managed their finances well, including maintaining a manageable level of debt. However, a series of unforeseen circumstances led the church into a season of difficulty. By 2024, weekly attendance had dwindled to about 60, and the debt that was once sustainable had become overwhelming.

During this challenging time, Bro. Mike Clayton stepped in as the interim pastor. With wisdom and compassion, he guided the church’s leadership team in making critical decisions to position the congregation for a hopeful future. One of those decisions involved exploring financial relief options.

Bro. Mike learned about the SBT Foundation’s “Jubilee Fund,” a program designed to assist qualified churches needing a financial reprieve. Eastridge Baptist Church qualified for the program, which provided them with a much-needed opportunity to stabilize their finances and plan for growth.

Conversations with Richard Cody, EBA’s Executive Director and a long-time friend of Bro. Mike, further opened doors. They discussed the possibility of partnering Eastridge with another church that shared a similar mission and DNA. Through these discussions, a partnership was established with a like-minded EBA church.

This partnering church committed to supporting Eastridge Baptist Church over a three-year period, contributing a total of $72,000. The EBA also stepped in to provide financial assistance for the first seven months, giving the partner church time to budget for the full commitment in 2025.

This collaboration between Eastridge, the SBT Foundation, the partner church, and the EBA is a beautiful example of how churches can come together to support one another. The partnership offers Eastridge Baptist Church a renewed opportunity to grow and serve their community. While their new pastor John Croasdale and the church recognize that the road ahead requires a progressive and proactive approach, they are filled with gratitude for the new possibilities that lie before them.

Eastridge’s journey reminds us that no church stands alone. With the right partnerships and a shared commitment to kingdom advancement, even the most challenging circumstances can be transformed into stories of hope and renewal. This ongoing story is a shining example of how God uses the collective strength of His people to breathe new life into His churches.