Now in a building that has always been used for education, Landmark Baptist Bible College continues to provide faith and religion to its students.

The school, located at 4824 State Route 141 in the former Rock Hill Elementary No. 2, is governed by Sugar Creek Missionary Baptist Church and a member of the American Baptist Association's Theological Schools.

Founded in the fall of 1997, the school consisted of only two classes that were held in the nearby church. In 2002, it relocated to its new site and now offers 21 courses that includes Greek, Hebrew, church history, theology, English, Bible survey, creation, Bible geography and more.

For Clifford Gore, vice-president of the school and pastor at Sugar Creek during the founding, just seeing the school evolve has been a enriching experience.

"Just to be able to get the school started and being able to see it grow from two classes to as many as we have now has been a great reward," he said.

About 30 students are currently enrolled at the school that offers mostly night classes. The seven teachers are almost all local pastors from within the community.

Gore points out that the price is really a tremendous benefit because the school offers courses for only $10 per credit hour.

"The purpose of the school is to have young preachers come in and get an education that they need," he said. "We offer it at such a low price that preachers, Sunday school teachers and others can afford an education."

However, the school is open to anyone who is interested in learning more about faith and the Lord, he said.

Kathy and Larry Gore have been students at the school for seven years and both said they are still gaining priceless knowledge.

"The more that anyone learns the better off you will be. It is helpful in so many different ways," Larry said. "This area is in dire need of a Christian school."

Both have achieved associate's degrees and Larry is working towards his ultimate goal of a doctorate degree.

"Hopefully, I will be able to teach at the school here one day," he said. "This message is something that needs to be sent out."

In looking ahead, Clifford Gore says they plan to add to the computers

and the library that already includes nearly 2,000 works.

Dean of Students Don Comer has been a part of the school right from the start and said that the entire process has been a blessing.

"It is rewarding to know that God is in the arrangement. He had it in his heart to us this facility," Comer said. "Sugar Creek and other churches in the Association are backing us."