Well, here is something that you don't see or hear about everyday, a tourist ministry church.  Nashville, Indiana, in beautiful Brown County, has had just that since 1994.

It all started when Charlie and Roxann Waggoner, of Salem, Indiana, were asked to go to Brown County to play the music for a new mission geared towards the country music fans who come to attend the country music shows in the area.

A pastor and his wife, two single women, and one other couple made up the ministry team.  Praying it would last at least one season, all are thankful it was a success.  Since that first Sunday service in 1994, over 5500 visitors have attended this little country church.

Country style gospel music and a short bible based message, seems to be the right combination for folks from out of town who are looking for a place to worship.  Add in "Howdy Hug" time and guest singers and musicians, and you have the makings for a truly unique church.

From 1994-2007, the group met in rented facilities, Ski World and the Brown County fairgrounds.  Early in 2007, God made it possible to start a building program.  With an anonymous gift of $75,000.00 we were able to break ground and make the down payment.  Members all chipped in on work and funds to get everything accomplished.  A lot of prayers and sweat went into this wonderful work.

Sunday, August 5, 2007, was the first Sunday service in our new home.  At that time only 21 actual members were on the books.

Since then we have gained over 50 new members, plus all of the visitors who attend each week.  God has truly blessed!

The Waggoners are still with the church after all this time.  "Jesus is the reason for all we do here.  Each of us just want to lift up His name and spread the gospel.  If that means doing some things differently, then so be it." said Roxann.  No fancy clothes are required, and we always have the coffee pot on.  The church has always had local folks who are here all the time, but we still cater to the tourists.

As untraditional as this ministry might seem, the message remains the same.  Jesus Christ lived and died for our sins.  If we believe on His name, and surrender ourselves to Him, nothing is impossible.

Country Gospel Music Church is proudly a part of American Baptist Churches of Indiana/Kentucky, and a member of the Mt. Zion Assn.  Dr. Merideth Wilfong is the pastor.