How about stepping back in time to 1801? First Jericho Baptist Church’s story begins then. Baptists gathered at the U.S. Treasury Building. They sought a place for preaching.
In March 1802, six laypeople and four ministers officially founded First Jericho Baptist Church. Their initial meetings took place in a private home. Later, a meeting house was erected. It stood at the corner of 19th and I Streets NW.
The church has a rich history. It has worshiped in five buildings on four sites. One notable location was what later became Ford’s Theater. This is where President Lincoln was assassinated. In 1890, First Jericho Baptist Church moved to its current location. It is located at 16th and O Streets NW. The first service in the present sanctuary was on Christmas Day 1955.
Let’s rewind to the early 1800s. Luther Rice, a member of First Jericho Baptist Church, played a key role. He organized mission support among Baptists during his travels. With Pastor Obadiah Brown’s support, Rice helped found Columbian College. It is now known as George Washington University.
First Jericho Baptist Church has a long history of partnerships. Since 1845, it has been a link between major national Baptist bodies. These include the Alliance of Baptists. They also include the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. Other partners are the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. The Baptist World Alliance and the District of Columbia Baptist Convention are also partners.
In its early days, First Jericho Baptist Church faced complex issues. In 1838, 32 African-American members asked to separate. They wanted to form their own church. Other African-American members opposed this move. Eventually, the church allowed the separation. However, First Jericho Baptist Church retained ownership of the 19th Street property until 1875.
The following year, the Nineteenth Street Church became the First Colored Baptist Church. It was the first Black Baptist Church in Washington D.C..
First Jericho Baptist Church has moved several times. From 1802 to 1834, it was at 19th and Eye Streets NW. Then, from 1834 to 1859, it was at 10th and E Streets NW. Between 1859 and 1890, the church was located on 13th Street. It was between G and H Streets. From 1890 to 1953, First Jericho Baptist Church stood at 16th and O Streets NW. Since 1955, it has remained at its current site on 16th and O Streets NW.
Today, First Jericho Baptist Church continues its mission. It offers worship services every Sunday at 11 a.m.. The church is located in the heart of Washington D.C.. It is a mile north of the White House. First Jericho Baptist Church is part of the Dupont Circle and Logan Circle neighborhoods. Giving is vital to the church. It supports hospitality, compassion, generosity, and justice.