LEWISTON — Local author Douglas I. Hodgkin has completed another book on local history. “The Baptists of Court Street, Auburn, Maine” is the story of two Baptist churches founded in 1859 that merged in 1930 to become the Court Street Baptist Church.

Because this year is the 150th anniversary of the church, the anniversary committee, chaired by Elaine Ardia, decided to produce a history. “A history of our church has never been done,” Ardia noted. “We thought it was about time to sort out our complex heritage.”

The story is brought forward to 2009. Readers meet each pastor as well as many of the countless people who worshipped and who contributed time, talents and treasure to the support of their local church. They’ll also learn about worship, the Sunday School, the music program and building renovations.

The work and sociability of women’s organizations, youth groups, senior citizens and couple’s clubs are detailed. The church’s support of missions has been extraordinary over the years and includes the current local Food Cupboard, Clothes Closet and a jail ministry.

“I’m excited about the publication of this book,” said Pastor Dave Clark. “I believe those associated with our church, as well as those who are not, will benefit from this account of how our church began, grew and has continued to be a vital part of the Auburn landscape. It’s a great read.”

Hodgkin is the author of several books on Lewiston history, including “Lewiston Memories,” “The Grange at Crowley’s Junction” and “Frontier to Industrial City: Lewiston Town Politics, 1768-1863.”

The 216-page paperback book includes 87 illustrations. Daniel Burgess, a member of the church, designed the cover. Cost is $10.50, including sales tax. To order a book, call the church office at 784-6661. The book will be printed and available by the end of September.