Pastor Wayne Joyce, a graduate of Bible Baptist Seminary, Fort Worth, returned to his hometown of Ruidoso in 1958 to organize what is now the Ruidoso Baptist Church. Prior to Ruidoso, Joyce pastored in Oklahoma and Texas. Ruidoso First Baptist Church’s first service was held in a small building, mid-town Ruidoso. In 1961 a building was erected at the present location which still houses the RFB congregation. Brother Joyce has been the pastor all 53 years.

Joyce is native to Ruidoso, having moved here at 6 months of age. At age 17 he joined the US Navy and served on an aircraft carrier during World War II. He and his wife of 59 years have two children. His wife suffered from cancer and passed away in 2006. In addition to being a minister Joyce has wrangled horses, led horse drives across the state, and is an accomplished carpenter. His handiwork is evident in the current church structure. His knowledge of the early days of Ruidoso is extensive and he can list several changes he’s witnessed in his lifetime.

The church has seen many challenges in its 53-year history. Starting out in mid-town in a building which no longer exists, Pastor Joyce founded the church on the basis of preaching from the Bible and introducing folks to Jesus Christ. Joyce states: “We teach the whole Bible, chapter by chapter, verse by verse.” This emphasis has remained unchanged throughout the 53-year history of the Ruidoso Baptist Church. Hundreds of photos line the sanctuary and office walls, and several anniversary celebrations are photo-documented.

Thousands listen to his sermons by downloading them from his website. Recent downloads originate from Morocco to Brazil, from Portugal to China. The site boasts over five million downloads since its creation by Pastor Joyce’s son. The pastor’s sermons have been recorded since 1981.

The independent and fundamental church believes in missions and supports many missionaries who serve in Brazil, Korea, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Australia, China, Wales and the Philippines. Locally, they’ve chosen to participate in area events such as Relay for Life (cancer support) and in 1999 supplied an award winning float in the Aspenfest Parade.

Materials are freely offered which share the message of salvation and Pastor Joyce’s sermons. The pastor shares, “If we can’t afford to give it away, we don’t have it.”

The public is welcome to attend the 53rd Anniversary celebration, with dinner following the service. The website: waynejoyce.com contains hundreds of messages available for download. Regular weekly schedule: Sunday School: 9:45 a.m., Morning Worship: 10:45 a.m., Sunday Night: 6 p.m., Wednesday Night: 7 p.m. Contact the church by phoning 575-378-4174.