Ardena Baptist Church enjoys a long and rich history in the Howell and Freehold area. The church started as the First Baptist Church of Howell on November 10, 1859. It wasn't until May 19, 1921 that the church was renamed Ardena Baptist Church. The land the current building occupies was originally a Presbyterian Meeting House, but was torn down by legislative action by the community. The Baptist Society of Fairfield purchased the land and began building the current building a year later. On August 14, 1861 the new church building was dedicated for the glory of God.
Rev. Harvey Kelley faithfully served as Pastor of Ardena Baptist Church for over 40 years (1965-2006). Rev. Thomas Detamore Jr. currently serves as pastor of the congregation (2006-current).
