South First Baptist Church

Can a church be a time traveler? South First Baptist Church in Austin seems to be one. It started its journey meeting in the Texas Capitol between 1847 and 1855. Imagine, a small congregation gathering within the halls of power, their voices echoing amidst the burgeoning government. Then, they moved, flitting from a house at 12th and Lavaca to the third floor of the Lamar-Moore Building at 700 Congress. Finally, they settled at 10th and Colorado, building their first dedicated home. This South First Baptist Church wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a witness to history. In its basement, the Women’s Missionary Union of Texas was born in 1880. By 1915, the church needed more space. A new sanctuary rose on the same spot at 10th and Colorado, dedicated in 1916 with a sermon by Dr. George W. Truett. This was a pivotal moment. South First Baptist Church chose to remain a beacon in downtown Austin, rather than fleeing to the suburbs. It chose to embrace its community, a decision that would shape its identity for decades to come. The church began to shed rigid doctrines, evolving its stance on race relations, women’s rights, and social justice. In 1963, South First Baptist Church declared that race and color would never be a barrier to membership, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity. Growth necessitated another move. A new location beckoned at 9th and Trinity, the former site of Allen Junior High. In 1969, the cornerstone of the old church was placed atop the cornerstone of the new. The past became the foundation for the present. A year later, during protests over the Kent State shootings, the old church bell rang out from the new tower. Not in protest or support, but as a call for reconciliation, a resounding message from South First Baptist Church. From the Texas Capitol to its current home, South First Baptist Church has witnessed Austin’s transformation. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and the pursuit of justice.