“Building Strong Families to Build a Strong Church.” That’s not just a motto. It’s the beating heart of Regency Baptist Church.
Regency Baptist Church began in June 1984. Jonathan Stewart, a Bible college graduate, felt a divine call. He started an independent Baptist church in southeast Arlington, Texas. Initially, it was known as Southeast Baptist Church. For five years, the church met in rented spaces. Later, they constructed their own building on New York Avenue. That’s when it was renamed Regency Baptist Church.
Over four decades, Regency Baptist Church ministered in southeast Arlington. Many souls found salvation here. Families grew stronger through the teachings. Missionaries went out from the congregation. The church also supported other missionaries.
In 2003, Regency Baptist Church celebrated a major milestone. They paid off their building and property. Then, they started thinking about expanding. They planned a new auditorium. The existing building would become classrooms and a fellowship hall. Several attempts were made to kickstart the project. However, the costs were too high each time. The expansion was put on hold.
But in 2024, as Regency Baptist Church marked its 40th anniversary, a new door opened. Central Baptist Church, a fellow church, was without a pastor. After worshipping with Regency Baptist Church for months, Central Baptist voted to join Regency. They transferred their building and property to Regency Baptist Church. The members of Regency gladly welcomed these brothers and sisters in Christ.
Regency Baptist Church’s original auditorium seated about 60. Central’s auditorium could seat over 200. So, on March 24, 2024, Regency Baptist Church voted to move. They relocated to the former Central Baptist Church. The location was at 311 E. 3rd Street. First, the auditorium and other facilities were remodeled. A second phase included the fellowship hall, offices, and parking lot.
Regency Baptist Church emphasizes family integrated worship. They provide Bible study tools. Families can use these at home. These tools are also discussed during Sunday gatherings in the Family Bible Hour.
Regency Baptist Church is now on 3rd Street in central Arlington.