A Brief Timeline

Blodgett Community Church began in 1890 as a Baptist church founded by settlers of the Baptist faith. After more than a century of ministry, the original organization put the church up for sale, intending for the congregation to relocate to larger churches nearby.

Blodgett mayor and businessman David Russell purchased the building with the intention of converting it into housing. However, when he discovered that the hymnals and Sunday curriculum were still in the pews, he became troubled by the thought of turning the church into housing. He shared the story at a local café, where minister Bro. Kenny Bollinger expressed his desire to preach salvation and love across denominational lines. Russell ultimately told him to occupy the church and see what happened.

In the months that followed, people from various Christian backgrounds filled the church, and the congregation adopted the name Blodgett Community Church. The church faced several challenges in its early years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily closed its doors. During the closure, Russell helped provide a stage and sound system at the city park so Bro. Bollinger could continue leading outdoor services. The congregation gathered there, maintaining fellowship and worship despite the restrictions.

In late 2020, Bro. Bollinger was diagnosed with brain cancer, and went to be with the Lord on July 21, 2021. Blodgett Community Church remains a simple, nondenominational country church dedicated to serving the people of Blodgett, Missouri, and carrying on under the influence of Bro. Kenny Bollinger's compassion and vision.