Evolving from humble beginnings, First Baptist Church Plano stands as a beacon of faith. Its roots trace back to 1852. It started as Spring Creek Baptist Church.
Imagine a small log schoolhouse. Five members gathered there one Saturday and one Sunday each month. This was the start of something special.
In 1853, Spring Creek Baptist Church officially formed. They built a structure replacing the schoolhouse. The church joined the Elm Fork Baptist Association in 1854.
Fast forward to 1872. The Central Railroad arrived transforming Plano. This event prompted the church to move into Plano.
The church sold its building and relocated. In 1873, it changed its name to Plano Baptist Church. At that time, membership totaled 51.
By 1886, the Collin County Association was organized. Plano Baptist Church held services on the second and fourth Sundays. The total membership reached 170. Services began being held every Sunday in 1894.
In 1897, the church purchased property at the southeast corner of 15th Street and M Avenue. A new building was dedicated in 1898.
In 1921, Mission County Line Church members became part of Plano Baptist Church. The name changed again in 1936. It became First Baptist Church of Plano.
The first Homecoming was celebrated in 1942. Baptist Standard started being mailed to every Baptist home in 1947.
The present sanctuary on E. 15th Street was dedicated in 1949. First Baptist Church Plano celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1953.
Dr. Travis Berry became pastor in 1964. A new sanctuary and education building were dedicated in 1970. The Child Development Center opened in 1971.
First Baptist Church Plano helped establish several other churches. Prairie Creek Baptist Church started as a mission in 1972. Hunters Glen Baptist Church began as a mission in 1976. Hillside Baptist Church followed in 1978.
Church membership totaled 2834 in 1979. The old sanctuary was remodeled into the Chapel in 1980. By 1989, membership had grown to 3466.
The sanctuary was remodeled in 1990. First Baptist Church Plano celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2002.
In 2008, the church provided office space for international missions. This was for Mission to Unreached Peoples. The Community Outreach Garden was established in 2010. A Contemporary Worship Service began in 2012.
Today, First Baptist Church Plano offers various services. Modern worship takes place at 9:30 AM on Sundays. Classic Worship happens at 11:00 AM. Bible studies are available during both service times. On Mondays, The Refuge hosts college students and young adults.
First Baptist Church Plano continues its mission today. It focuses on loving, serving, and sharing. It stands as a testament to faith. It embodies community.