We’re Glad You’re Here

Welcome to First Baptist Church

Home. That is what FBC feels like. We know our grand gothic architecture, soaring bell tower, liturgical worship, and magnificent pipe organ may initially feel a little overwhelming. But once you enter our doors, you will experience warmth, friendship, and love that feels like a great family gathering. Our structure and style of worship represent our deep respect for God, our desire to experience God's mystery, and God’s intimate presence with us. But they only tell part of our story. After all, there is “God’s story,” “my story,” and “our story.” We want to know your story and for you to know our story. Together we can discover God’s story better.

As a moderate Baptist church, First Baptist Church welcomes all equally. We value the leadership that both men and women, young and old, single and married. Please join us, and expect to be accepted warmly, included equally, and challenged to grow in faith and service to the world. We are ready for you to be home with us.

Sundays at FBC

Sunday School • 9:45 AM
Sunday Worship • 11:00 AM

The worship of God is at the center of the life and mission of First Baptist Church. In our worship services together, we offer praise to God, confess our sins, receive assurance of God’s forgiveness, listen for the voice of God and offer ourselves in response to God’s direction. God comes to us in the reading of Scripture, the singing of hymns, the anthems offered by our choirs and handbell ensembles, the preaching of the Gospel, and the spaces of silence that are interwoven in our worship. In worship, we are formed as Christians, bound together by God’s grace in baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and energized for participation with God in service to our world.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHERE DO I GAIN ENTRANCE IF I NEED TO VISIT THE CHURCH DURING THE WEEK?

  • Attending Worship

    The sanctuary faces Winder Street. Parking is available in our parking lot, the lot across Winder Street, and on the street.

    Mobility needs: Please use the ramp at the corner of Winder and Wyche Streets to access the sanctuary.

  • Attending Sunday School, Bible studies, and other Activities

    Sunday School classes, Bible studies, fellowship meals, and meetings are held in the Lark Educational Building at the rear of the Sanctuary building. You may access this building on Sundays from our parking lot, Wyche Street, or Orange Street.

    Mobility needs: Please use the elevator to access the Lark Educational Building.

  • Visiting on weekdays

    All guests during the week are encouraged to check in at the Offices, located in the Lark Educational Building. The office is open M-Th 9am-5pm; F-9am-noon. From the parking lot between our playground and buildings. Find the elevator entrance adjacent to the black metal stairs.  Press the button on the call box at the elevator door and our staff or volunteers will open the door for you remotely. Take the elevator to second floor, and the church office will be on your right.

IS FIRST BAPTIST A SOUTHERN BAPTIST CHURCH?

No, our primary denominational affiliation is with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Please visit our “What We Believe” and “Missions” pages to learn more.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

We have no official dress code, and you will find others wearing a variety of styles. However, because we believe we meet God in worship, we encourage everyone to dress in a manner that demonstrates respect for God and others. This is the primary reason our ministers wear robes: not to convey authority or stature but to express humility and reverence.

HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER OF FIRST BAPTIST?

Church membership is a visible expression of your place among a loving, caring church family on mission for Jesus Christ in our community and world.  If you would like to discuss church membership, contact Senior Minister Ron Cava.  You may also review the membership portion of our church constitution.

HOW CAN I RECEIVE THE CHURCH NEWSLETTER?

If you would like to receive our biweekly newsletter, The First Baptist News, you can sign up on the homepage of our website or send your email and/or postal address to Lindsey Johnson in the church office.

HOW DO I SELECT A SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS

We offer classes for all interests and ages as part of our weekly Sunday School. Our Minister of Family and Formation will be happy to talk with you further or answer any questions you may have.

HOW DO I BECOME INVOLVED IN A MINISTRY?

We welcome everyone to our formational, missions, and music ministries at any time! For more information, or for a specific ministry contact, call the church office at 252.438.3172 or email any staff member.

HOW DO I RESERVE MEMORIAL/HONORARY FLOWERS FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP?

If you would like to place a flower arrangement for the sanctuary during worship, contact Lindsey Johnson in the church office.