— Daily Freeman-Journal photo by Anne Blankenship The congregation at First Baptist Church recently voted to change the name of the church, according to Pastor Patrick Wiedemeier. The new name, taken from Hebrews 6:19, will be Anchor Point, a Baptist Church.

First Baptist Church, 543 Division St., Webster City has voted to change its name to “Anchor Point; a Baptist Church.”

“After preaching a series of messages on the Names of God; Elohim, Jehovah, Adonai, and their compound variations, we have learned how significant name meanings are,” Pastor Patrick Wiedemeier said. “We looked to the Bible for inspiration on a name choice.”

The Anchor Point name comes from Hebrews 6:19 “This hope we have as an anchor for the soul, both sure and secure…”

Wiedemeier said Anchor Point is one of two churches in the area that believes doctrinally that eternal life is permanent.

“When Christ said from the cross, ‘It is finished,’ there were no ‘if’ clauses.” Wiedemeier said. “Our salvation is not sourced in good works, nor is it sustained in our own performance. It is only by our Lord and Savior’s grace alone. That’s supernatural love.”

The church also believes in the inspired, inerrant Word of God as the final authority. For these reasons the subtitle “a Baptist church” was retained, according to Wiedemeier.

Because of compromise in the American Baptist Church, the church voted to leave the denomination. Since the name “First Baptist” is often associated with them, changing the name brings clarity, the pastor explained.

First Baptist Church was first organized in 1858 and is located at the N.E. corner of Wilson and Division St.

The Sunday morning schedule at Anchor Point; a Baptist Church includes Sunday School at 9 a.m., fellowship at 10 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. For more information on other services and meetings, visit the church website, www.anchorpointbaptist.com, or its Facebook page.

Signage and other steps necessary in changing the name are in process.