We have been actively serving the Upper Country community since 1889.
Midvale Community Baptist Church
Midvale Idaho
Organized in 1889
Our History
A Legacy of Faith Since 1881
The story of Midvale Community Baptist Church began in 1881 when the first worship service was held in the Middle Valley area with just five people in attendance. A Methodist minister led that gathering, and the early settlers agreed to worship together as one community regardless of denominational affiliation.
As the community grew, separate congregations eventually emerged, and around 1889 the Baptist church was officially organized. The founding families included Tom and Bill Mackay; Anderson, Milton, and Milford Hopper; Harvey and Francis Brittian; and Charlie Reavis. Their faith, dedication, and commitment to Christ helped establish a lasting gospel witness in the valley.
In its earliest years, the church gathered in homes and even in a saloon operated by Charlie Reavis. Anderson Hopper served as the church's first pastor, followed by a pastor remembered as Mr. Ellion (or Elton). During his ministry, the congregation constructed its first church building in the Keithley Creek area.
Around 1900, local resident Charley Lydston began promoting the vision of establishing a Baptist church in the village of Midvale. Through his leadership and the determination of the community, a new church building was constructed around 1905. That vision helped establish what would become a faithful ministry presence in Midvale for generations to come.
For well over a century, Midvale Community Baptist Church has remained committed to sharing the Gospel, making disciples, and serving the people of Midvale and the surrounding communities. Through seasons of growth and change, God's faithfulness has continued to guide and sustain His church.
2023 to Present
In 2023, Pastor Chris Blythe began providing pulpit supply ministry while the church searched for permanent pastoral leadership. During that season, both the congregation and the Blythe family sensed the Lord's direction for the future of the church. In August 2023, Pastor Chris was officially installed as the bi-vocational pastor of Midvale Community Baptist Church.
Since then, the church has renewed its focus on community outreach, discipleship, and serving the practical and spiritual needs of the surrounding area. Building upon the faithful foundation laid by previous generations, the congregation continues to seek opportunities to share the love of Christ and make a lasting impact for God's Kingdom.
"Celebrating God's faithfulness in the past, serving faithfully in the present, and looking forward to His work in the future."
About Pastor Chris
Pastor Chris is a pastor, teacher, counselor, and mental health advocate with a passion for helping people grow spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. His ministry is rooted in biblical truth, compassionate care, and a lifelong commitment to walking alongside individuals and families through life's challenges.
Since entering ministry in 2001, Chris has served churches in Idaho, North Carolina, and Virginia, gaining extensive experience in pastoral leadership, discipleship, preaching, and community outreach. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Bible and Ministry from Amridge University in 2005 and a Master of Arts in Christian Studies from Luther Rice Seminary in 2011. He also completed a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Amridge University, graduating Summa Cum Laude.
Licensed to the Gospel ministry in 2008 and ordained in 2014, Chris has a particular passion for revitalizing rural churches. He enjoys helping congregations rediscover their mission, strengthen community connections, develop effective outreach ministries, and cultivate lasting spiritual growth. He also planted a church in Chatham, Virginia, through the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia.
In addition to pastoral ministry, Chris serves as a Staff Development Specialist and Mental Health Therapist with Lifeways in Ontario, Oregon, specializing in trauma recovery. As a frequent conference speaker and trainer, he has presented at community, caregiver, and government-sponsored events, exploring the intersection of faith, mental health, leadership, and practical life application.
Chris and his wife, Jenny, have been married since 1999 and are blessed with five sons and a wonderful daughter-in-law. As a family, they enjoy fishing, hunting, and spending time outdoors, especially near the water. Chris is also an avid wildlife photographer who enjoys capturing the beauty of God's creation, particularly birds and natural landscapes across the country.
