Our History - Past ______________________________________________


The First Baptist Church, West Indianapolis, was organized in the year of our Lord 1887 with ten members. In February of 1914, the members moved to 1469 South Kappes Street, the former location, which still stands as a memorial to our heritage.

The growth of the membership was gradual and by the mid-1900's the membership had grown to approximately 200. Over the years because of death and changes in the community, there was a decrease in membership. During the years from 1925-1928, the choir of the First Baptist Church had the distinction of being the first black church choir in the city to sing on the radio.

Many sainted souls have labored in the First Baptist Church. Though sometimes tossed and driven, their labor was not in vain, for "they were laborers together with God." (I Corinthians 3:9) Through their dedication and commitment to the risen Christ, they left with us a rich tradition of faith and a legacy of hope in God. We thank God for their contribution.

Several pastors labored at First Baptist and made great strides along the way. The Lord has blessed us to have several preachers receive their calling to the pastorate out of First Baptist, some of whom are presently pastoring today. In December of 1984, the Lord led a few members to call our present pastor, Stephen L. Wilson, Sr., who now serves as our spiritual father, counselor and teacher.




Our History - Present ______________________________________________


Having worshiped for 108 years at our former church building located at 1469 South Kappes Street and with the growth that First Baptist was experiencing, Pastor Wilson and the church began seeking the Lord's direction for a larger facility to aid in furthering the church's ministry to the community. On Sunday, November 20, 1994, God blessed The First Baptist Church, West Indianapolis to move from its former home on Kappes Street to our new home here at 845-849 South Belmont Avenue. It was a grand affair as we were lead by motorcade to our present building. On that day we dedicated this $1.8 million dollar facility to the glory of God.

Now our eyes and ears are focused on the mandates of Jesus Christ for His church; that being: Missions, Evangelism, and Education. As we move into the 21st century, we recognize the importance and necessity of the "wholistic" ministry to the community. We must then seize the opportunity of winning lost souls to Christ. We are endeavoring to "save our children," who are not "the church of tomorrow", but are a part of "the church of today"!

Often we pause to reflect upon our past, to assess the present, and to evaluate our goals and ambitions for the future. We constantly ask ourselves, "Have we kept the faith? Have we used well the resources God, through His Son, Jesus Christ has provided for us?" With these questions ever before us, we now move onward and upward through the power of the Holy Spirit who enables us to develop new, vital, and necessary ministries to meet the needs of an ever-growing congregation.