Celebrate 125 years with Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home reunion

Recently, former and current residents, family, friends, and staff gathered for the 2024 Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home Reunion. This year was especially momentous as the ministry celebrated its 125th Anniversary. The reunion drew over 200 attendees, with alumni traveling from as far away as Canada and New Hampshire to reconnect and reminisce with their loved ones. The group not only enjoyed great food and entertainment but also found the most joy in perusing hundreds of photos and sharing deeply personal stories from their past with their “family.”

A former resident and current LBCH Trustee, Ricky Bullock, shared a heartfelt sentiment: “I keep telling everyone you know I left here 53 years ago, and I still tell people this is home.”

A standout moment of the reunion was the unveiling the Children’s Home’s new Legacy Room. This room displays a historical timeline of the ministry along with photos and artifacts collected over the years, beautifully narrating how God has provided love, care, and hope for children and families in need for 125 years. The Legacy Room is now open for tours by appointment.

The origins of this enduring ministry trace back to Pastor William Cooksey’s compassionate vision to start an orphanage in 1899. From the first donation—a silver dollar by fourteen-year-old Jim Bowen—to the present day, Louisiana Baptists have upheld their commitment to meeting needs and changing lives through the Christ-centered ministries of the Children’s Home. This legacy of love, care, and hope has touched countless lives, a testament to the enduring impact of our ministry.

Under the direction of President and CEO Dr. Perry Hancock, the services of the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home & Family Ministries currently include:

-Residential Child Care (Private Placement and DCFS Placement)-Residential Family Care (Homeless children and mothers)-Foster & Adoption Ministries-Granberry Counseling Centers-Women’s Learning Center (includes HiSET training and testing)-Minister Care Residential Program-Compassion for Kids-International Orphan Care

For more information, visit lbch.org or call 318.343.2244