The Masonboro Baptist Church was founded in 1856, six or eight years after people in the Masonboro community began gathering for services in the home of a neighbor, John Hewlett. The Hewlett family burying ground eventually became the Church's cemetery. 

    It was not until the Civil War that a church building was erected. Church members cut timber and hauled it to the mill, and, working between fish hauls and plowing, built the church themselves; one room, a vestibule, and a pot-bellied stove. 

    From its modest inception, Masonboro Church has played an integral part in the life of the larger Church, touching people far beyond the Sound community. While adapting to meet the needs of a changing world, it has remained faithful to its historic roots. Unapologetically Baptist in tradition, Masonboro seeks to be boldly ecumenical in its vision, cooperating with Christians of all traditions in the mission of Christ. Current local mission involvement includes, Noah's Ark Children's Center, the Interfaith Hospitality Network, Habitat for Humanity, Mother Hubbard's Cupboard, Parish Nurse Program, and Halo Hoops Ministries. Our mission giving supports the Southern Baptist Convention and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.