When I first moved to North Carolina over 25 years ago, I was confused when folks started talking about church homecomings. But as the years passed and I spent more time serving God’s people, my perspective shifted. Church homecoming isn’t about reliving awkward moments—it’s about something far more beautiful and meaningful.
The Bible is filled with stories of homecomings that warm the heart: the Prodigal Son returning to his father’s embrace, Jacob reuniting with Esau, the Israelites coming home from Babylonian exile, and the lost sheep joyfully carried home by the shepherd who never gave up the search. Each celebrates grace. As Robert Frost taught us, “when you have to go there, they have to take you in.”
That’s what we celebrate at Yates Baptist Church. Homecoming means returning to a place where you know you’ll be welcomed with open arms. It’s a big, joyful reunion—minus the awkward questions!
Yates Homecoming 2024 is amazing for many reasons. It’s Our 146th Birthday Bash! We’ve been spreading love, hope, and God’s Word in this community since 1878. We’ve got stories to share, and they’re incomplete without yours. We’re Honoring Real-Life Heroes like Matthew and Eliza Yates, the missionaries for whom our church is named. Their courage and faithfulness still inspire us. We’re bringing The Continentals for worship and dinner on the grounds—music that’ll move your soul. And we’re having food, glorious food! Dinner on the grounds with your favorite dish. Sharing a meal is one of the oldest and most sacred ways Christians connect as a community.
We’re celebrating our past, but we’re also excited about what’s next. Over the past months, we’ve been having intentional conversations about God’s vision for Yates. Your ideas, energy, and faith are irreplaceable. I want you to be part of shaping that future.
Whether you’ve been away for a while, you’re a regular, or you’re just curious about what Yates is all about, you belong. There’s a place for you at our table. Come celebrate faith, family, and the future with us.
Grace & Peace,