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Gospel LightBaptist Church · Malvern, AR
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Our story

A story of
God’s faithfulness.

From three families meeting in a small building to a growing ministry on Tanner Street, every chapter of Gospel Light’s story points to the faithfulness of God.

2000 — Today

“All the glory belongs to Jesus.”

01

How it all started

In 1999, Joel Overton had a vision to start an independent Baptist church in Malvern. Bob Raines helped begin Lighthouse Baptist Church in Overton’s home and soon found a building at 503 Oak Street. Cliff Caughman of Gospel Light Baptist Church in Hot Springs purchased the building until the new church could afford it. Knowing he would not be the permanent pastor, Bob Raines prayed for a man who shared the burden for Malvern. God placed that burden in Jon Horton. In July 2000, Jon, Teresa, and their son Anthony moved from Indiana. Pastor Horton organized the three attending families as Gospel Light Baptist Church. Eleven people attended the Hortons’ first Sunday, and the church held its charter membership service on September 10, 2000.

02

Expanding the vision

Gospel Light remodeled its Oak Street building, purchased ministry homes and vehicles, began bus, visitation, soul-winning, and nursing-home ministries, and founded Ambassador Baptist Academy in 2005. The church has seen more than 2,000 people receive Christ and more than 200 baptized. After purchasing land in 2004, God redirected the church to a five-acre former lumber-store property on Tanner Street. Remodeling began in 2008, and the church moved into 1585 Tanner Street on April 12, 2009.

03

Where we are headed

Since moving to Tanner Street, Gospel Light has continued to see God’s hand on the ministry. The church is planning for expanded ministry space, including an auditorium expansion and family life center. We praise God for what He has done across more than 25 years—and for what He will continue to do. All the glory belongs to Jesus!

Anniversary film

Remembering what
God has done.

Watch the story of Gospel Light Baptist Church and celebrate the people, places, and moments God has used across the years.