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FOREWORD
This history of the First Presbyterian Church of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi in large measure is reflective of its antecedents in which, in the early years, women had virtually no identities beside that of their husbands, if they had one, or outside of their families. For instance, rarely is a married woman given her Christian name in the archives; the name used is almost always that of her husband.
The church is also obviously a reflection of the times it is in. In this regard, it is noted that, in the 50's, it was a button-down, from the top-down society, and so was the church in most ways. The rebellious 60's, furthermore, are also reflected in the church, while the 70's and 80's churches are similar to those eras, too: placid, flacid and plastic, as were the times themselves. The exceptions are also found. On the other hand, the advent of the 90's brought change to the secular world as	well as to	the church.	More
?enlightenment" is now permitted, a more relaxed atmosphere, as are changes that could have been overwhelming ?but weren't.
This church	has a reputation for	both
Christian friendliness and as a survivor. It has been seasoned by	its storms,	it has	healed	its
rifts, and it has matured	into a	church	of
reconciliation. God has blessed it and will continue to do so, for it is God's children who worship here.