A weathered cornerstone whispers stories of resilience and faith. That cornerstone belongs to First Baptist Church of Cicero. Founded in 1833, the First Baptist Church of Cicero stands as a testament to community and spiritual growth.
The church’s origins trace back to a small group of fifteen believers. They gathered in a modest two-story frame building. This building was owned by the Methodists. It stood at Wacker Drive and Franklin Street. These individuals organized the First Baptist Church of Chicago. The date was October 19, 1833.
First Baptist Church wasn’t the first Protestant church in Chicago. The Presbyterians had organized earlier that year. The Methodists had gathered at Old Fort Dearborn in 1831. Despite this, First Baptist quickly became a vital force in the city’s religious landscape.
About ten years after its founding, thirty-two members departed. They formed Tabernacle Baptist Church. This separation stemmed from differing views on slavery. Tabernacle Baptist Church took a strong stance against slavery. They refused communion or pulpit access to those who defended it.
By the 1850s, First Baptist and Tabernacle reconciled. They welcomed each other’s ministers and members. This reconciliation highlighted a shared commitment to faith. It also showed their evolving understanding of social justice.
During its initial forty years, First Baptist relocated several times. One building was located at what is now 31st and King Drive. This site is now home to Olivet Baptist Church. These moves reflect the church’s growth. It also mirrors the changing urban landscape of Chicago.
First Baptist Church became a mother church. Many ministries throughout Chicago sprung from its membership. These include Calvary Baptist Church in South Shore. The church also nurtured the Chicago YMCA movement. The Baptist Missionary Training School and the old University of Chicago owe their existence to First Baptist’s efforts.
First Baptist Church played a crucial role in resettling Japanese Americans. This was in the Hyde Park-Kenwood area after World War II. Rev. Jitsuo Morikawa became Assistant Pastor. He later became the first Japanese American to lead a Euro-American congregation. Rev. Morikawa also welcomed the first African-American members.
The winds of change continued. By the 1970s, the congregation transitioned. It shifted from predominantly Euro-American and Japanese to African-American. In 1980, Rev. Jesse M. Brown became the 27th pastor.
First Baptist Church has always been a training ground for church leaders. Rev. Dr. Larry Greenfield was ordained there in 1967. From 1986 to 2015, many members were licensed to preach.
In 2005, Rev. Carol Jamieson Brown became pastor of First Baptist Church of Park Forest. She has served longer than anyone in the church’s history. In 2016, Allison Lundblad became pastor of Arlington Heights Christian Church. Rev. Annette Thornberg became pastor of Community Baptist Church in Warrenville in 2017.
The First Baptist Church of Cicero remains dedicated to children and youth ministries. These include the Guild Girls, Scouting, and Summer Music Camp. Vacation Bible School and Youth Bible Studies are also important. The Annual Youth Mission Trip takes young people around the world. They engage in service and cultural exchange.
Even today, the First Baptist Church of Cicero stands as a beacon. It stands for faith, community, and service. Its rich history reminds us of its enduring impact. Its commitment to the future inspires us all.