The Story

During 1999, New Prospect Baptist Church voted in its regular business conference to begin the ministry of providing a home for missionaries on furlough. . The church acquired the property where the house is located approximately a year earlier. The property was adjacent to the existing church property and when it became available it was logical for the church to acquire it. The question then arose as to what to do with the house. Much prayer and soul searching went into what to do with the house. It was determined that there was a significant need for housing for missionaries as the missionary force is steadily growing. It was also determined that a significant number of church members were willing to make this dream a reality. After the motion was passed, the first work day on the house was scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 1999. On that workday over 40 volunteers showed up to work. Workdays were scheduled every Saturday in March and April. During this time over 100 volunteers participated in the project. The house had no major problems but underwent a thorough renovation to bring it up to date. New Prospect is blessed with skilled professionals from all walks of life. Men, women, boys, and girls all pitched in to do whatever was needed. By donating their labor thousands of dollars were saved. The church had received estimates that it would cost $40,000 to renovate and furnish the house. When the house was completed in May 1999 only $6,500 had been spent. In addition, much more work was done than the $40,000 price would have covered. See below for a partial list of the work. The house is a three bedroom house with one full bath, large living room with dining area, eat-in kitchen and utility room. It is located in a beautiful rural setting in West Anderson County, S.C. Hardwood trees (with swings) and green pastures surround it. There is a large fenced in backyard with lots of room for children to play. The Elisha House is a perfect location for missionaries to relax and rejuvenate. Some of the renovations include the following:

  • 14 replacement insulated vinyl windows were installed.
  • The kitchen was completely remodeled with new handmade birch cabinets installed, new ceramic tile floor and new appliances.
  • The hardwood floors were professionally refinished.
  • A new gas hot water heater was installed as well as new gas logs in the fireplace.
  • The central heat and air unit was repaired.
  • A security system was installed.
  • The back porch was closed in to make a utility room.
  • New ceramic tile was installed in the utility room, bathroom, and kitchen.
  • Materials and labor were donated to pave the driveway.
  • The attic was insulated.
  • Extensive re-wiring was done.
  • Extensive painting was done in the interior.
  • New doors were installed.
  • The exterior was landscaped.
  • Various other repairs were done.

After the house was renovated the task of furnishing and decorating began. This was a huge task and was graciously tackled by a skilled couple in the church. Some of the furnishings were donated and money was given to purchase the remaining items. Church members and even non-members who became aware of the need donated furnishings. It was a huge task to make all the various donated items fit together. Many hours of labor went into making the house a home. Especially noteworthy are the numerous handmade-framed art Scripture verses. These are especially appropriate, as this is God’s house. The Deacons and church approved a motion to name the house “The Elisha House” based on II Kings 4:10 “Please, let us make a small upper room on the wall; and let us put a bed for him there, and a table and a chair and a lampstand; so it will be, whenever he comes to us, he can turn in there.” Our first missionaries arrived in the house in May 1999 immediately upon completion. Since that time many missionaries and families have “turned in there” at the Elisha House. The church is blessed by the fellowship and direct exposure to missionaries. God has blessed this ministry from the beginning and continues to bless it. To God be the glory, great things He has done. The Missions and Outreach Committee is responsible for the booking, maintenance and oversight of The Elisha House. Inquiries about the house can be made by writing to Elisha House c/o New Prospect Baptist Church, 2503 Whitehall Road, Anderson, SC 29625, by phone at (864) 225-1236 or by email Elisha House.

Elisha House Home