Our Purpose
Our goal is to be a successful model of a theologically moderate, flexibly traditional church, open and responsive to the Lord’s Word and call, exemplifying the best of American Baptist principles and heritage while embracing, regardless of background or circumstance, all who seek to explore, follow and serve Jesus Christ.
Our History
The Village of La Grange was incorporated in 1879. Five years later, on April 29, 1884, at the home of Myron T. Baldwin, 27 people voted “that all members of Baptist Churches, having organized themselves to each other, do organize themselves as the First Baptist Church of LaGrange.” Reverend J.O. Metcalf, a station agent who held services at the railroad depot, and M. Shirk organized the First Baptist Church of LaGrange.
Reverend Joshua E. Ambrose served as the first pastor.
Over the years, First Baptist has occupied two major structures, both located on the same site north of downtown LaGrange. At the corner of Ashland and Bell Avenues, it was for many years the “only English speaking church north of the tracks.”
In 1919 a resolution was made, “that a strong, aggressive Baptist Church, giving special attention to religious activity and community service, can and ought to be maintained in LaGrange” and so it has been to this day.
