Our History
First Baptist Church of Batesburg has a long history of worship and service to the community. We are so pleased with your interest in our ministry. While the history of any church is important in understanding its roots and foundation, it is the future that holds the key to continued vitality and growth in the kingdom of God. Instead of being locked into the past, First Baptist Church is committed to being a vibrant, growing, and inclusive fellowship, with a creative and quality ministry which is dedicated to programming the gospel of Jesus Christ. Growth is for all seasons of life and we invite you to join us as we move forward in following Jesus.
First Baptist Church Batesburg started after a several Baptists believers who were meeting in Batesburg one Sunday in July 1872 thought it would be good for Baptists to have a place to worship. Out of that small group, a committee was appointed to begin work towards this vision. Within a year, land was purchased and a building completed. Then on May 24, 1873, sixteen men and women met in that newly constructed worship center and constituted what was then called Batesburg Baptist Church. Almost at once the church became a growing active instrument for God. A revival was held that August at which six persons were added to the role of the church.
In the years following these early days, First Baptist Batesburg continued to experience growth both numerically and materially. More revivals were held, and many more persons were saved through the preaching of the Word. To accommodate these additional members the church entered into new building programs, and pastors were called to lead, teach and disciple these new converts.
It’s been a rich history at First Baptist Batesburg, and over these 125 years the church has experienced some changes. The membership has changed. Many have died to receive their reward in heaven. Others moved on to other communities. Buildings have changed too. Two more worship centers have been built since that first building in 1872, and two educational buildings, one in 1929, and then its replacement in 1995. Even the name changed when the church members voted to call themselves First Baptist Church instead of Batesburg Baptist. However, even with these changes, the one thing that has remained constant over the course of the past 125 years: our vision. Like those first charter members , the members today hold the same vision for a gathered community of believers dedicated to worshiping our Lord and proclaiming His good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.
We who call ourselves First Baptist Church Batesburg cherish our history, but we don’t dwell on in nor let it hinder us from realizing our future. We simply use it as inspiration to press on forward to reach the next generation of believers to continue this history. We invite you to come and be a part of this historic work of God through His people First Baptist Batesburg.
