ABOUT US
CHURCH HISTORY (1872-2025)
The Falling Run Missionary Baptist Church history dates to 1872.
That was the year that Reverend William Devane, assisted by Reverend
Ransom Royal, and a group were sent out by the First Baptist Church of
Fayetteville, North Carolina, to organize a church in this section of
Cumberland County. This church was located near the East Banks of the
Cape Fear River, about three miles from its present location. Falling Run
was derived from a small falling stream that ran down to the river; thus, the
church received the name Falling Run Missionary Baptist Church.
Reverend Devane came to Cumberland County at the request of
James Kelly, Sr., and Washington Evans, who had met him at a meeting,
then known as the Old Grays Creek Association. Reverend Devane made
the journey up the Cape Fear River by steamboat in the latter part of 1871.
He was unsuccessful in finding the proper persons; therefore,
circumstances forced him to return to his home in Kelly, North Carolina.
Later in the same year, Reverend Devane attempted another voyage up the
river by boat. This time, he was successful in finding some of the people of
the community. Among the first to meet him were Allen McDaniel and his
wife, Margrett. These three formed a friendly relationship. Reverend
Devane very quickly sensed the need of the people for they had recently
come out from under the chains of slavery.
Thanks to the Pastors who served Falling Run Missionary Baptist
Church since its existence: Rev. William Devane, Rev. Solomon Devane,
Rev. Hayes Peterson, Rev. G. W. Moore, Rev. Elijah Tate, Rev. F. R.
Robinson, Rev. J. D. Cowan, Rev. M. L. Dawson, Rev. G. H. Corbett, Rev. F.
R. Devane, Rev. A. H. Dixon, Rev. W. H. Hill, Rev. B. B. Bethea, Rev. G. W.
White, Rev. A. A. Heartly, Rev. Sampson David, Rev. H. R. Cogdell. Rev. O.
L. Bennett, Rev. Rudolph Tripp, Rev. John D. McDonald, Rev. Tommie W.
Campbell, Rev. Dr. Leonard R. Faison, Sr; and our current pastor, Rev. Dr.
Reginald A. Wells.
This church continues to be fruitful during the one hundred and fifty-
three years of existence.
OUR ORDINANCES
Water Baptism
Water baptism is a symbolic step Jesus commanded of new believers.
In our church, baptism is reserved for older children and adults because it always
follows a conscious decision to accept Christ’s offer of salvation. We baptize believers
by immersing them in water. This process does not save a person, only serves as a
public testimony signifying the death of the individual’s sinful past and their new birth
in Christ. It is an important even in the life of the believer, confirming the changing
power of Jesus Christ and a new identity in Him. Various opportunities throughout the
year are provided for individuals to make a commitment in this way.
Communion
Communion is observed on the first Sunday of the month. This solemn
commemoration reflects on the loving sacrifice of Jesus, remembering his suffering,
His death, and his glorious resurrection. Communion serves as a worshipful reminder
of the great price Jesus paid for our salvation and encourages deeper devotion to
Christ.
