The first known Christian church dates back to sometime between 33 and 70 AD.

Located in a cave in Jordan, it is thought that the church was established by about 70 disciples of Jesus Christ who fled Jerusalem following his crucifixion. The underground church became a place where early Christians could practice in secret. Some two centuries later, Saint Georgeous Church was established – and is now known as the oldest “proper” church in the world.

As the Gospel has spread throughout most of the world, there are now millions of churches. And while Jesus’ message hasn’t changed, the ministry process has changed as well as the architecture of today’s churches.

As amazing as it is that early Christians started a church in a cave, buildings have to evolve with the times. Technology is playing a much bigger role in sanctuaries and Bible study classes. Churches need to consider handicap access and keeping children’s areas safer.

Since we were founded in 1992, DSC has worked with many churches in Middle Tennessee, including Murfreesboro First United Methodist, Grace Lutheran, Providence Baptist Fellowship, Veterans Parkway Church of Christ, Parkway Baptist and LaVergne First United Methodist.

Dow Smith Company is currently working on a large project—one of many over the years—for LifePoint Church in Smyrna, where Joey has attended for 18 years. He currently serves on LifePoint’s Board of Directors.

“People want to go to a place that’s nice and clean and fresh,” Joey says. “We’re trying to engage culture in a safe way. We’re not going to change the message, but the method may change in how we do ministry.”

Dow Smith Company is a design-builder that follows Christ and pursues health, balance and excellence. DSC is proud to be recognized as a multi-year recipient of the Certified Best Christian-Owned Business by the Best Christian Workplace Institute.

DSC is also a proud member of The National Association of Church Design Builders, which is a not-for-profit organization that believes, “Your ministry has a mission, and vision and a purpose that is a unique as your calling—and you should continue to focus on that throughout the building process.” The NACDB’s job is to show churches the different building methods, best practices, the ways they might be able to save money and connect them to board-approved, vetted members, like DSC, from across the country.

As churches in Middle Tennessee continue to grow, many have found a strong partner in DSC.