In 1916 a small Sunday school started in McLean. This marked the humble beginning of McLean Baptist Church. Nine families formed the initial congregation. They met in homes and a one-room schoolhouse. In February 1917 the church was officially established. It joined the Potomac Baptist Association in 1919.
McLean Baptist Church wasn’t always the substantial building you see today. Early services were held in a modest white frame building on Emerson Street. By 1950 the church had outgrown its small building. A new building was constructed on Calder Road. This reflected the church’s increasing membership and expanding programs.
For many years McLean Baptist Church was a small-town congregation. Pastors served for short periods. Then came the long tenures of Reverend Tom Jackson and Reverend Michael Catlett. Their leadership spanned decades shaping the church’s identity. The church began to address local needs. Share Inc an ecumenical community service organization was started in 1969. It provided vital support to the McLean community.
The church’s growth continued. In the 1960s and 70s membership surpassed 500. Another building campaign followed. The enlarged facilities were dedicated in June 1988. McLean Baptist Church ordained women as deacons. They also hired their first woman minister. This led to the church’s departure from the Southern Baptist Convention in 2000. This decision affirmed women’s roles in ministry and leadership.
The church continues its mission. McLean Baptist Church supports ministries in Liberia Zambia Ukraine and India. Building Bridges A History of Missions Work at McLean Baptist Church details some of these efforts. Today the church remains committed to service inclusiveness music and Christian education. These themes have guided McLean Baptist Church for decades. They reflect the church’s dedication to its mission. McLean Baptist Church strives to be a loving and inclusive community. It celebrates Christ through worship and service to the world. The church’s first hundred years saw significant growth. It expanded its reach in discipleship ministries and missions. The legacy of McLean Baptist Church continues to this day.