Our Church History
A brief history of the beginning of Baptist Churches and a few facts about current American Baptist Churches are provided in a couple of summaries from ABC-USA. An excellent book to read is "Down by the Riverside: a brief history of Baptist Faith" by Everett C. Goodwin. (ISBN 0-8170-1400-4)
The First Baptist Church in Midland, Michigan was formed by a few hardy Christians on June 2, 1869. Sam Sias donated land for the first building which was built across the Chippewa River not far from where the Tridge stands today. In the early years the congregation struggled to survive the harsh atmosphere of a tiny lumbering town. Men and women both played important roles in the life and building of the church. Through church suppers and bake sales, the women helped to support the church and the building.
The second church was built in 1888 on a lot at the corner of Larkin and McDonald streets. The women and Rev. Charles D. Gregory were instrumental in raising money for the lot and the building.
The third, and current, church building was built in 1955 on the Thorsberg farm on the outskirts of town. Development of the town since then now places the building well within the confines of the town.
From the early 1970's the church has sought to shape its ministry to an increasingly diverse community. People of various backgrounds have found First Baptist a welcoming spiritual home.
A concern for carrying the message of Christ to the world has long distinguished First Baptist Church. The congregation is one of the leaders in mission giving among the American Baptist Churches of Michigan. Several of the church sons and daughters now serve as missionaries, pastors and other positions of Christian Leadership.
In the 1990's the church refurbished some of the building as part of Funding our Future. In 1997, the church formed an Eye on the Future Committee. In 1999 First Baptist Church partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build a home for a local family.
The church will observe its 140th anniversary in June 2009. During this time, the historic past will be celebrated and the challenge of the future addressed. We as a people are prepared to step forward and make a "past" that can be celebrated by those who are members of the church 150 years from now.
Our church worship has been changing and growing as well in the past few years. In 2004 the church expanded the staff to include an Associate Pastor and a Director of Youth Ministries and launched a Capital Campaign for more extensive refurbishing of the building.