First Baptist Church

We are in the City, for the City, for God’s Glory

One Chicago Day in October 1893, the city’s theaters shut down because the owners figured everyone would be attending the World’s Fair. Over 700,000 people did go, but Dwight Moody, evangelist, (1837-1899) wanted to fill a music hall at the other end of Chicago with preaching and teaching. His friends were skeptical that Moody could draw a crowd on the same day as the fair, but by God’s grace, he did. The crowds came.  Even today, First Baptist Church agrees with Dr. Moody’s vision. They realize how easy it is to become caught in an endless maze of everyday activities. They suggest that their members build a life centered around Christ, which takes into account three basic commitments: Worship, Small Group Life, and Ministry.

Fifteen staff members oversee Sunday services, Wednesday luncheons, supper and prayer meeting. For 180 years, First Baptist Church has been sharing life together. There is a very broad socio-economic range in the church with a lot of diversity. FBC is a very relational church. If you are there and involved, your relationships are deep. Members take it very seriously to take care of one another. It’s authentic. There is a spirit of generosity in the church, inside and outside their walls. “Meridian/Lauderdale County is a good community. People are far too quick to point out the obstacles in our community, but every obstacle is an opportunity,” says Pastor Nathan VanHorn. “Our church is not just in the city; we want to do our part to contribute to the prospering of our community, to welcome anyone to our community. I think God has called us to do that in Jeremiah 29:7; ‘Wherever we are, we are to seek the welfare of the city.’ God’s people should contribute to the prospering and flourishing of the area around them. That’s why FBC is a chamber member. We want to help Meridian, and Lauderdale County succeed. We want to see people succeed.”

Someone who had been visiting the church for a while commented that the love the people have for God is evident in the way they interact with each other and how they give generously to their community and to worldwide missions. First Baptist Church exists to share the gospel, make disciples and serve their community and world. Faith makes all things possible; love makes all things easy.

First Baptist Church, a fellowship of Christians looking forward to knowing you.

First Baptist Church
701 26th Ave., Meridian, MS