One local church is preparing to celebrate 200 years of service to the community.

On Feb. 22, 1817, 70 members were dismissed from South Elkhorn Baptist Church of Christ to begin the Providence Baptist Church of Hickman.

A special worship service will be hosted on Feb. 19 at The Providence Christian Church located at 101 Providence Way in Nicholasville.

The service will follow the format of the 100th-anniversary service held in 1917. Rev. James Trader, Curator of Cane Ridge House, will preach.

A reception will follow in the fellowship hall. This celebration will be one specifically for the church.

On May 20 and 21, Providence will host a 200th-anniversary celebration for the community to attend. A cookout and other activities are currently being planned.