First Baptist Church

Introduction

First Baptist Church is a Baptist congregation located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The church is registered as a nonprofit organization with the Business Registration Number 107383887RR0001. It has a rich history dating back to 1827 and is known for its progressive and inclusive stance.

History

The church was originally founded under the name Granville Street Baptist Church on September 27, 1827. This was initiated by a group of African-Canadian individuals who sought to leave the Church of England due to frustrations with the appointment of clergy by the monarch. Led by Rev. John Burton, they invited Dr. Ira Chase from the Newton Baptist Theological Institute in Massachusetts to assist in establishing the new church.

By 1838, members of the Granville Street Baptist Church played a pivotal role in founding Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. As the congregation grew, the church eventually outgrew its facilities. In 1886, it relocated to a site on the corner of Queen Street and Spring Garden Road and changed its name to First Baptist Church.

Tragedy struck on March 21, 1942, when the church building was destroyed by fire. For eight years, the congregation held services in St. Andrew’s United Church Hall. The current church building, constructed in 1950, is designed in the English Perpendicular Gothic style by architect Bruce Brown of Toronto. The architecture features a cruciform floor plan with a nave, chancel, and transepts, showcasing towering windows with tracery and stained glass.

Mission and Beliefs

First Baptist Church is characterized by its progressive and ecumenical approach. It actively promotes inclusivity and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds. The church emphasizes the importance of diversity within its community, believing that this diversity helps expand understanding of God. It is particularly welcoming to people of all genders and sexual orientations.

Community Engagement

The church engages in various community activities and encourages participation in its vibrant worship services. These include a range of musical styles and community events that foster an environment of love and acceptance.

Significance

First Baptist Church stands as a symbol of community resilience and inclusivity. From its early days as a place for African-Canadians to its current role as an affirming and welcoming space, the church continues to evolve and grow, contributing significantly to the spiritual and social landscape of Halifax.

[1] https://fbchalifax.ca [2] https://www.youtube.com/@fbchalifax [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Baptist_Church_(Halifax) [4] https://atlanticbaptistheritage.omeka.net/items/show/250 [5] https://www.instagram.com/fbchalifax/