Community Bible Church was officially organized on November 13, 1977 when a handful of believers committed to the Bible Church movement desired to see a Bible church in Paris. They began meeting regularly and soon decided to work toward formally becoming a church body. They soon developed a doctrinal statement and church constitution, and called Michael Slaven to be their first pastor. In 1978, the church purchased an office building in downtown Paris, which was our location until 1990. Later that same year, the church became a member of the Independent Fundamental Churches of America (IFCA) for reasons of accountability and fellowship with like-minded congregations. In 1979, pastor Slaven decided to pursue more Bible training and so a second pastor was called, the Rev. Steve Lucas. He served our church until 1982, when was called to another ministry. During Pastor Lucas’ ministry, the church developed a missions program and began supporting three missionaries. In 1983, Mike Slaven returned to pastor the church for two more years. Since then, brother Slaven, has continued serving as a layman in the church. David Laborde became our pastor in 1985, when the church was averaging around 35 in attendance. At that time, Community Bible Church became a mission church with the Indiana Bible Church Mission. After we reached around 65 people in 1989, the church was able to become a self-supporting work.