The present building of Mulberry Missionary Baptist Church (above) was dedicated on July 16, 1978, after the 1936 building was destroyed by arsonists in December 1977. The 1936 building (right) was built following the destruction of the first building by a tornado on April 1, of that same year. Mulberry Missionary Baptist Church in Wilkes County will celebrate its 125th anniversary on Sunday, May 21. The day will begin with Sunday School at 10:30 a.m., and the worship service to follow at 11:45. There will be food and fellowship at the conclusion of the service.

The original 1881 congregation of Mulberry Baptist Church met in a brush arbor for several years until the membership was able to purchase land to build a sanctuary. The sanctuary was destroyed by a tornado on April 1, 1936, but seven months later a new sanctuary was built.

This building was destroyed on December 18, 1977, by teenage arsonists, who also did damage to other churches in the area. Through combined efforts of churches in the area, statewide, and other states, the church was rebuilt in less than a year. Financial contributions, donated materials and labor supplied by many churches, made the project possible in this short time.

The building was dedicated on July 16, 1978, with people from all over the Southeast attending.

The current pastor of Mulberry Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Robert L. Crawford, and the members extend an invitation to the public to attend and participate in this memorable 125th anniversary celebration.