“Transformed lives by the gospel” is not just a saying here at First Baptist Church of Mount Pleasant. It is their vision. This church is more than just a building. It is a vibrant community with a rich history.
First Baptist Church of Mount Pleasant started as a mission in 1913. Citadel Square Baptist Church in Charleston sponsored it. Twenty-five charter members organized it. For three years, they met in homes and Hibben United Methodist Church. In 1916, they rented a room in the old Berkeley County Court House. This courthouse stood at King and Pitt streets.
In 1917, Reverend A. J. Nielson led the mission to organize. It became Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. Two years later, they bought the courthouse. They purchased it from the Knights of Pythias. The church then adopted a new name. It became First Baptist Church of Mount Pleasant.
By the late 1950s, the church grew quickly. They needed two worship services each Sunday. They rented a store and two houses. These served as Sunday school classrooms. In 1958, the congregation made a big decision. They decided to move to McCants Drive. A new sanctuary and educational building were built. It was dedicated on March 15, 1964.
In 1953, First Baptist Church School was founded. Its mission was to serve church families. Over time, it grew. It became a fully accredited institution. It served students from early childhood to 8th grade. The school’s name changed to Coastal Christian Preparatory School. This better represented the families it served.
The Christian Life Center was dedicated in 1987. This happened during the church’s 70th anniversary. It provided shelter during Hurricane Hugo in 1989. It then became a storage area. Clothes, food, and staples were stored there. Volunteers helping with cleanup were housed there too.
First Baptist Church sponsored missions. These missions became independent churches. They were in Awendaw and McClellanville. The church foresaw population growth. It bought 34 acres on U.S. Highway 17 North in 1979. In 2010, The Church at LifePark opened there. First Baptist Church became a two-campus ministry.
Today, First Baptist Church of Mount Pleasant continues to thrive. It focuses on connecting people. It helps them grow in faith. It encourages serving others for Christ. The church engages believers and non-believers. They share the gospel through worship. They equip believers through LifeGroups. These groups study scripture together. The church entrusts members with service opportunities. These are both inside and outside the church. You can join them for worship on Sundays. Life Groups meet at 9:15 am. Service starts at 10:30 am.