In 1987, local people felt led by the Lord to start a Baptist Church in Katherine. Around 60 Australian Baptist pastors were contacted but, despite all being interested, none were available to take up this task.
The Baptist Union of the Northern Territory turned to the International Mission Board (IMB) for help.
In America, Gary and Lily Stone were in the process of appointment with the IMB.
They believed God was calling them to work in the Outback of Australia, specifically in the Northern Territory. Accordingly, the IMB approved their appointment to plant a Baptist Church in Katherine.
In March 1988, visas were granted, and the Stones were on their way to Australia.
The IMB agreed to provide a salary for the Stones and the Baptist Union of the Northern Territory provided a house on Maluka Road.
The Stones placed an advertisement in the Katherine Times and spread the word that they would like to meet with anyone interested to help with starting a Baptist Church in Katherine.
On April 4th, 1988 the Lord moved a sizeable group to attend a Bible Study in the Stone's living room and a new church was born.
With God’s provision, the little church began to grow quickly.
During this time, Gary Stone visited the Warlpiri Camp in Katherine. The Warlpiri leader, Louis Lewis, warmly welcomed the new Baptist missionary. Connection with and support for the Warlpiri people has continued since that time.
“It was obvious to all that the Lord had His hand on this group. The word spread far and wide that Katherine Baptist Church was there if one were moving to Katherine. ”
Katherine Baptist Church was formally constituted on November 6th, 1988.
Gary reports, “The constitution of the new church was a lovely occasion! Around 100 people attended, and the Baptist Union recognised the Katherine Baptist Church as a sister church in the Union.”
The first full-time pastor for the church was then called and appointed. Gary and Lily Stone transferred from Australia to Guatemala in 1991, to serve God there.
From 1988 till today, the people of Katherine Baptist Church have faithfully continued to spread the message about Jesus in the Katherine community and its surrounding region.
Welcome to all who would love to be part of God's continuing work in the Australian Outback.