“God has always had His hand in and around this place.” Those powerful words echo the sentiment behind Dunwoodie Baptist Church. Dunwoodie Baptist Church’s story is one of growth adaptation and unwavering faith.
The history of Dunwoodie Baptist Church is rich. It began in 1958 with a young architectural student named Andrew L Smith. He became the pastor of the 72-year-old First Baptist Church of Dunwoody. This original church stood across from Dunwoody Village.
As the surrounding area experienced a boom due to the construction of I-285 the church saw an opportunity. Wieuca Road Baptist Church offered assistance. The ministry needed to grow to meet the needs of the bustling area.
In January 1961 a contract was signed for 18.75 acres. The land was located at the corner of Ashford-Dunwoody Road and Mt Vernon Road. Dunwoody Chapel was established on June 14 1961. Dr Solomon F Dowis served as the interim pastor.
Dr R Denard Spear Jr began his nine-year ministry in September 1963. 290 members moved to the new location. The chapel was officially constituted as Dunwoody Baptist Church on March 15 1964. Under Rev Spear the church experienced significant growth. Membership grew from 290 to over 1050. The facilities more than doubled. An athletic field and a kindergarten were added. Missions became a priority. 17% of undesignated gifts went directly to missions.
In May 1973 Dr James S Chavis Jr became the Senior Pastor. He assembled a capable staff. The church strengthened its evangelistic outreach. A new Family Life Center was built. A beautiful sanctuary with a seating capacity of 900 was added. Later building programs included a music building. Also a children’s building and the Cecil B Day Wellness Center were added. Dunwoody Baptist Church established four new churches. These were North River Baptist Church Peachtree Corners Baptist Church Alabama Road Baptist Church and Jamerson Road Baptist Church.
Dr Daniel Vestal became Senior Pastor in October 1988. He promoted public worship. He committed to world missions. He ministered to the community. His gifts as a strong biblical preacher and compassionate pastor provided a solid foundation for church growth.
Dr Jim Johnson became Senior Pastor in June 1992. He introduced a contemporary worship service. He implemented a Discovering DBC Class. Dr Johnson also developed an effective small group ministry.
Dr Allen Jackson became the Interim Pastor in 2002. Dr Mack Hannah became Senior Pastor in November 2003. Under Mack’s leadership programs like Celebrate Recovery were formed.
Dr Allen Jackson returned as Interim Senior Pastor. On September 6 2015 the Senior Pastor Search Team recommended Allen Jackson. On September 20 2015 Allen was officially called as Dunwoody Baptist Church’s 6th Senior Pastor.
Today Dunwoodie Baptist Church continues to thrive. It is focused on its mission. It helps people to become more like Jesus. It is committed to transforming homes churches communities and the world. It offers various programs. “Explore” is a relaxed discussion-style gathering. It focuses on beliefs and practices. Attending “Explore” is a requirement for membership. Dunwoodie Baptist Church understands and affirms its mission. Members give their energy time spiritual gifts and financial resources.
Dunwoodie Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith growth and community. Its history is a reminder that with dedication and God’s guidance anything is possible.