“Imagine a sanctuary, not just of stone and glass, but of stories woven through generations. This is First Baptist Church Dallas.
Established in 1868 with only eleven members First Baptist Church Dallas started humbly. They gathered first in the Masonic Hall on Lamar Street near Ross Avenue. Imagine those early days a small group with a big dream. In 1872, they pooled their resources buying their first building on Akard in downtown Dallas.
Now fast forward to 1891. The cornerstone of the sanctuary they worship in today was laid. Think of the hopes and prayers embedded in that stone. First Baptist Church Dallas has been growing ever since.
The church’s influence spread far beyond its walls. First Baptist Church Dallas founded ministries like First Baptist Academy and Criswell College. The church wanted to champion Christian education. In the mid-1970s, Criswell College even purchased KCBI a Christian radio station. Today, KCBI broadcasts on 90.9 FM as part of the Criswell Radio Network.
First Baptist Church Dallas underwent a major renovation and expansion in 2013. It included a new worship center. The project cost 130 million dollars. It was the most expensive Protestant building project in modern history. In 2019, they announced another 35 million dollar expansion to the Horner Family Center and a new parking garage.
First Baptist Church Dallas has a 3000-seat worship center. It has a large skywalk and a computer-synchronized water fountain that plays music. The original worship center remains an ancillary venue. It hosts worship services weddings and other events.
Over the years First Baptist Church Dallas has been led by several influential pastors. George Washington Truett served from 1897 until his death in 1944. Dr. W.A. Criswell took over in 1944. Under his leadership, the church expanded to cover five blocks in downtown Dallas. It became the largest Southern Baptist church in the world. Later pastors include Joel C. Gregory O.S. Hawkins Mac Brunson and current pastor Robert Jeffress who was appointed in 2007.
Billy Graham was a member of First Baptist Church Dallas for over fifty years. He joined in 1953 during a Dallas crusade. Though he rarely visited he remained a member until 2008.
However, First Baptist Church Dallas has faced controversies too. Robert Jeffress has been involved in disputes. These include allegations of hate speech.
In 2024 the historic sanctuary partially collapsed after catching fire. The cause is still under investigation. Thankfully, no one was injured.
First Baptist Church Dallas stands as a testament to faith community and change. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a megachurch its story reflects the evolving landscape of American Christianity. It is a church that continues to adapt build and spark conversation.
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