“What began with a prayer meeting of just 12 people bloomed into this vibrant house of worship.” That is how the story of First Baptist Church of Marshall Heights begins. Founded in 1937, First Baptist Church of Marshall Heights has grown into a strong community. It currently has 394 members.
Early leadership shaped the church’s foundations. Pastor Campbell served for a year. Pastor Williams followed with a short tenure. In 1939, Pastor William Tyler was called to lead First Baptist Church of Marshall Heights.
Under Dr. Tyler’s guidance, First Baptist Church of Marshall Heights flourished. He established crucial boards. These included the Deacon Board and Trustee Board. He also created the Church School and Baptist Training Union. Thirty-seven auxiliaries and clubs were organized. The church expanded its reach through evangelism. They worked in many states. These included Washington DC and Connecticut. They also worked in South Carolina and North Carolina. Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey and New York were included too. First Baptist Church of Marshall Heights joined several associations. These were the Potomac River Baptist Association and the District Baptist Convention. They also joined the National Baptist Convention. During Dr. Tyler’s time, the current church building was constructed in 1964. The mortgage was paid off in 1975. Seven ministers were licensed by Dr. Tyler. Five became pastors. He served for 38 years.
Dr. Lehman D. Bates succeeded Dr. Tyler. He introduced new groups. These included the Senior Citizen Group, now called the Silver Threads. He also created the Disciples of Christ youth group. Boy and Girl Scout Troops were formed. These were for children ages 5 to 17. Dr. Bates licensed 11 men to preach. Eight were installed as pastors. He started the Pastors Fellowship Guild. The church joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. It also joined the American Baptist Churches of the South. They supported the United Negro College Fund. Foreign missions were aided through the Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Convention. Local outreach was enhanced by adopting the J.C. Nalle Elementary School. Support included backpacks and school supplies. They also provided bus transportation and winter clothing. Dr. Bates served from 1979 to 2012.
In February 2015, Dr. André D. Ivy became the fifth pastor of First Baptist Church of Marshall Heights. His installation occurred on September 6, 2015.
First Baptist Church has a rich history. It continues to serve its community. You can even join them online every Wednesday at 7 p.m.